LSU Professional Development is proud of our partnership with the Alliance Safety Council to offer the Certified Occupational Safety Specialist (COSS®) program. COSS is a nationally recognized 40-hour, a five-day training program designed by safety professionals for the entry-level person or for the experienced safety person who needs a refresher in safety. Its main objective is to equip employees who have safety and health responsibilities with the core competencies they must master to be successful in occupational safety and health.
There are two options for the curriculum-based format of the COSS program:
- Hands-on, in-class, instructor-led training
- Live-online virtual instructor-led training
Benefits of COSS Certification
- Greater recognition.
- Greater earning potential.
- Networking across multiple industries.
- Increased job security.
- Advanced learning and application of occupational safety.
- Achieve certification 60 percent faster than similar programs.
English Proficiency Requirements
Continuing Education Programs
Continuing Education (CE) courses and programs offered online through LSU Online & Continuing Education typically include a combination of lecture and discussion as well as reading and writing assignments. You need an adequate command of English in all skill areas (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) to participate in classes.
If English is not your native language, you must meet one of the English language proficiency requirements below to be successful in our CE programs. If you intend to register for a CE course or program, you can determine whether you meet English proficiency requirements by self-assessment prior to enrolling. We want to empower you, the learner, to progress successfully. Completing this self-assessment will enable you to make a good decision on whether you can complete one of our programs.
Intermediate English Skills
Most CE professional development courses and programs require at least intermediate English skills, which are equivalent to a B2 level of English language proficiency on the Self-Assessment Form. When assessing yourself, be sure to read through each of the categories under Column B2 to make sure you meet proficiency requirements.
Advanced English Skills
Online Distance Learning courses and microcreds are for-credit courses and might require more advanced English skills, equivalent to a C1 level on the Learner Self-Assessment Form. Be sure to read through each of the categories under Column C1 to make sure you meet proficiency requirements.
FAQ
Certified Occupational Safety Specialist (COSS) FAQs
What is the Certified Occupational Safety Specialist (COSS) program?
The Certified Occupational Safety Specialist (COSS®) certificate, offered by LSU Continuing Education through LSU Online in partnership with the Alliance Safety Council, is a nationally recognized safety credential. It’s designed for entry-level safety professionals as well as experienced staff who need a refresher on core occupational safety and health competencies.
How long does the COSS certification program take to complete?
The COSS certificate from LSU Continuing Education through LSU Online is a 40-hour training delivered over five days. Participants can achieve certification about 60% faster than in similar programs.
What training formats are available for the COSS program?
LSU Continuing Education through LSU Online offers two formats for the COSS certificate: hands-on, in-class, instructor-led training or live-online virtual instructor-led training. Both formats cover the same curriculum-based content.
What are the benefits of obtaining a COSS certification?
The COSS certificate from LSU Continuing Education through LSU Online offers greater professional recognition, higher earning potential, and networking opportunities across multiple industries. It also supports increased job security and equips safety professionals with advanced, applied knowledge.
What are the English proficiency requirements for the COSS program?
The COSS certificate from LSU Continuing Education through LSU Online is non-credit professional development rather than a for-credit course, so the expected English level is B2 (intermediate). Enrollees can self-assess against LSU’s official proficiency form before registering to confirm they meet that bar.
How much does the COSS certification program cost at LSU Online?
For current cost information, contact an LSU enrollment coach directly at 833-280-5634 or answers@outreach.lsu.edu.
For more information about this course, email Answers or call 833-280-5634.