Barton’s Hazardous Materials Management Program provides students with the skills to safely manage and assess hazardous waste in a variety of environments.
Students learn how to collect and analyze contaminated samples, identify and inventory hazardous materials, and properly package, label, and ship waste according to regulations. The program also covers safety protocols, including how to conduct safety audits and deliver workplace training.
Graduates are prepared for careers in government agencies, utilities, manufacturing, environmental consulting, waste management, and hazardous waste engineering.
Barton Benefits
At Barton, our areas of study are designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking necessary to thrive in today’s world. Whether you're just beginning your educational journey or advancing your career, we offer flexible and rigorous programs that support your goals.
Why Barton?
- Hands-On Training
Gain practical skills in hazardous waste handling, environmental safety, and compliance. - Career-Focused Curriculum
Prepare for entry-level jobs or career advancement in environmental and safety-related fields. - Experienced Faculty
Learn from instructors with over 40 years of combined real-world experience in environmental management and regulatory compliance. - Flexible Career Pathways
Start working in the field, advance your current role, or transfer credits to a four-year institution. - Industry-Relevant Instruction
Courses are led by professionals who have worked in safety auditing, environmental consulting, and hazardous waste operations.
Career Outlook
What Do Hazardous Materials Professionals Do?
Hazardous materials removal workers locate, contain, and dispose of dangerous substances such as asbestos, lead, mold, and radioactive waste, helping protect people and the environment.
Where Do They Work?
These professionals work in a variety of settings, often in construction zones, industrial sites, or contaminated areas. Schedules can include nights, weekends, and overtime, especially when responding to emergencies or natural disasters.
How to Get Started
Most positions require a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Many workers complete training aligned with OSHA standards, and some may need state or federal licenses or permits, depending on the specific type of hazardous material.
Pay and Job Outlook
- Median Salary: $47,280 per year (May 2023)
- Job Growth: 1% projected increase from 2023 to 2033
- Projected openings: Around 4,800 per year, mostly due to worker retirements and career changes
Despite slower growth, demand remains steady due to ongoing environmental regulations and the need for disaster response and site remediation.
Earn Credit for Prior Learning
Students may be eligible to receive credit for:
- Workplace or industry training
- Military education and experience
- Professional licensure or certifications
- Previous college coursework
To qualify, students must be degree-seeking and submit documentation such as certificates, transcripts, or licenses. All evaluations are conducted upon written request and follow the American Council on Education (ACE) guidelines. At least 15 of the required 64 credits must be completed through Barton.
Become a Cougar
Complete the Admissions checklist of requirements to become a Cougar today.
Barton classes are affordable and accessible, with sessions starting throughout the year.
You have many options to help you accomplish yours goals and we're here to help!
100% Online – Learn from Anywhere
Whether you're beginning your career or seeking advancement, Barton’s fully online format allows you to complete coursework on your schedule—anytime, anywhere.
Benefits of a career in Emergency Management:
- Competitive wages
- High-demand roles with strong job security
- A meaningful, service-oriented profession
Degree Maps
Degree Maps
Associate in Applied Science
Certificate
Environmental Regulations Specialist Certificate
Environmental Management Professional Certificate
View the full list of Curriculum Guides (applicable for students admitted prior to Fall 2024) and Degree Maps (applicable for students admitted Fall 2024 and after).
Course Descriptions
Course Descriptions
HZMT 1903 Introduction to Environmental Management - 3 credit hours
Introduction to Environmental Management provides an overview of the impact of industrial operations on the environment, government regulations controlling industrial activities, and cost-effective business strategies that meet environmental guidelines. In addition, the following topics will be discussed: “green” chemistry and engineering; sustainability; indoor air quality; energy conservation; communicating environment management risks to the public; environmental implications of nanotechnology, environmental ethnics and environmental justice.
HZMT 1905 Environmental Sampling & Monitoring - 3 credit hours
This course introduces students to the basic concepts and technologies employed to properly sample and monitor various environmental media in a variety of settings. Course emphasis is given to both regulatory compliance and response operations. Topics include air, water, and soil sampling plans, equipment selection, sampling techniques, sample integrity, monitoring techniques, chain of custody, quality, and data interpretation.
HZMT 1907 Resource Conservation & Recovery Act - 3 credit hours
This course provides an introduction to the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) with an emphasis on federal rulemaking, regulatory framework, and hazardous waste management. Topics include the Federal Register, Code of Federal Regulations, hazardous waste characterization, generator classifications, transporter responsibilities, treatment and disposal facilities, universal waste, standard and innovative remediation technologies, and contingency planning. Students will also explore and discuss related laws impacting hazardous waste management such as the Comprehensive Environmental Response and Liability Act (CERCLA) and the Emergency Planning and Community Right to know Act (EPCRA).
HZMT 1909 Clean Air & Water Quality Regulations - 3 credit hours
This course provides a study of the laws and regulations associated with the protection of air and water. Topics and activities include the Clean Air Act Amendments (CAAA), Clean Water Act (CWA), air pollution control technologies, National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES), and interpreting standards promulgated in the Code of Federal Regulations.
HZMT 1911 Emergency Response to Chemical Spills - 3 credit hours
This course provides students with an overview of the requirements of 29 CFR 1910.120 (g) for Emergency Responders (Spill Response Teams, Hazmat Teams, Fire Fighters, EMS, FEMA personnel or Policeman) who respond to chemical spills. Topics include levels of releases, emergency response plan, environmental spill response, incident command system, toxicology, chemical awareness, monitoring, personal protective equipment, safety, site control, types of decontamination, emergency spill containment procedures.
HZMT 1912 Industrial Hygiene/Toxicology - 3 credit hours
A review of the research done in determining the systematic health effects of exposures to chemicals. Determination of risk factors, routes of entry, control measures, and acute and chronic effects are discussed.
HZMT 1917 DOT Regulations - 3 credit hours
This course provides a detailed study of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations. Topics include identifying regulated materials, prepare shipping papers, inspection of packaging and label determination. Emphasis will be placed on interpretation of regulations used in the transportation and storage of hazardous materials.
HZMT 1919 Hazardous Waste Operations & Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) - 3 credit hours
This course provides students with an overview of the requirements of 29 CRF 1910.120 for occupational health and safety workers who respond to hazardous waste and chemical spills. Topics include toxicology, chemical awareness, monitoring, personal protective equipment, safety, confined space entry, incident command, site control, medical surveillance, decontamination, safe work practices and emergency procedures.
HZMT 1940 Introduction to Ergonomics - 3 credit hours
This course provides the student the fundamental knowledge about human structure, behavior, and common work practices. Knowledge gained in class will enable the student to evaluate work systems and recommend changes that will reduce work related musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) and other workplace ergonomics related injuries.
HZMT 1950 Characteristics of Hazardous Materials - 3 credit hours
This course focuses on the basic concepts needed by first responders, emergency operations personnel, industry, and law enforcement to evaluate the potential hazards and behaviors of materials considered hazardous. It examines the reasons for the chemical behavior of hazardous materials and is designed to improve decision-making in safety operations, handling, entrance protection, mitigation, and decontamination procedures. Units of the course include the Periodic Table, chemical and physical aspects of chemical compounds and how these properties affect emergency incidents, salts, non-salts, the hydrocarbon family, hydrocarbon derivatives, and physical process of combustion.
HZMT 1978 GIS for Emergency Operations - 3 credit hours
This course serves as an introduction to Geographic Information Systems and their application in Emergency Operations. The basic concepts of geography, cartography and Global Positioning Systems will be covered, along with the basic components and capabilities of a geographic information system. Students will learn about the fundamental types of GIS analysis and applications, focusing on those used in Emergency Operations.
HZMT 1979 Continuity of Operations Planning (COOP) - 3 credit hours
This course provides a brief overview of continuity of operations planning, including its definition, the legal basis for continuity planning, the Continuity Program Management Cycle, and the essential elements of a viable continuity program. The course covers program requirements, elements and support requirements and describes the roles and responsibilities of the Continuity Program Manager and other key players in developing a viable continuity program.
HZMT 1980 Occupational Internship I - 1 to 3 credit hours
This course provides students with the opportunity to explore career interests while applying the knowledge and skills learned in the classroom in a workplace setting. The experience also helps students gain a clearer sense of what they still need to learn and provides an opportunity to build professional networks.
Occupational Outlook
Occupational Outlook
|
Quick Facts: Hazardous Materials Removal Workers |
|
|
2023 Median Pay |
$47,280 per year |
|
Typical Entry-Level Education |
High school diploma or equivalent |
|
Work Experience in a Related Occupation |
None |
|
On-the-job Training |
Moderate-term on-the-job training |
|
Number of Jobs, 2023 |
50,300 |
|
Job Outlook, 2023-33 |
1% (Slower than average) |
|
Employment Change, 2023-33 |
500 |
Discover Career Paths
Discover Career Paths
Visit the What Can I Do with My Major? webpage to find helpful resources on career paths, employers and more!
Admissions
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