Explore online Emergency Management Degree programs. Compare schools and see what you could be doing after you graduate.
Earning an online emergency management degree can demonstrate your commitment to protecting people and places.
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As you study for this degree, you can learn about working on the front lines or behind the scenes to promote safety and security. Your online studies can help prepare you for an exciting career in emergency management.
List of Schools Offering Online Emergency Management Degree Programs
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
1. Adelphi University
Adelphi University continues to strive to train and inspire students through programs and courses that they offer online and on campus. They offer online and blended learning programs, which are convenient, career-focused, and affordable.
The university’s online Bachelor of Science in Emergency Services Administration allows learners to have close interaction with leading educators and practitioners in the field of emergency services.
They will receive public safety training, including paramedic certification, military training, and fire academy training.
Adelphi is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
2. American InterContinental University
American Intercontinental University is a regionally accredited higher education institution located in Schaumburg, Illinois. They offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree courses both on campus and online.
Their Virtual Campus gives students access to course materials and other amenities that traditional students enjoy. These include library services, career services, and student clubs.
AIU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
3. American Military University
American Military University is a member of the American Public University system. They offer affordable tuition and flexible programs online, with classes starting monthly to fit every individual’s schedule.
The Bachelor of Arts in Emergency and Disaster Management at American Military University prepares learners for a full spectrum of jobs in public safety and emergency management.
They will be trained in risk assessment, prevention and management techniques, hazard identification, emergency and disaster management, and counterterrorism.
AMU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
4. Anderson University
Anderson University is located in Anderson, South Carolina. There are approximately 78 areas of study in the undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels.
Anderson University offers an online program in Criminal Justice – Homeland Security/Emergency Preparedness. This can be completed fully online with a learning environment that allows students to collaborate with their teachers and peers.
It consists of 123 credit hours designed in a convenient eight-week format to fit the schedule of busy working adults.
Anderson s accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
5. Arkansas State University
Arkansas State University is a research university in Jonesboro, Arkansas. It was established in 1909 and is the flagship university of the Arkansas State University System.
The university offers a Bachelor of Science in Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management under the College of Nursing and Health Professions. It is an online, interdisciplinary program that prepares students to become professionals in the field of emergency management.
AState is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
6. Barry University
Barry University is a Catholic university, founded in 1940 by the Adrian Dominican Sisters. It is located in Miami Shores, Florida, and is considered one of the largest universities in the Southeast region.
Barry University’s Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management is offered in an online format with as few as 12 months for core coursework. The program focuses on public administration, criminal justice, management, health sciences, psychology, sociology, and environmental sciences.
Barry University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
7. Bellevue University
Bellevue University, founded in 1966, has been focused on providing adult education. Its main campus is located in Bellevue, Nebraska.
The university’s Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management equips professionals for effective disaster response. The program has a building-block approach, which can help students develop a comprehensive skill set of emergency disaster management: Mitigation, Preparedness, Response, and Recovery.
Bellevue is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
8. Bethel University
Bethel University is a Christian university founded in 1871. Based on the Christian faith, its mission is to educate men and women for excellence in leadership, scholarship, and service.
Bethel’s Bachelor of Science Degree In Emergency Services Management trains and equips students to protect and lead in the field of emergency public service.
Courses include natural disaster planning & management, Homeland Security law, terrorism in the modern world, and financial management of emergency response organizations.
Bethel is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
9. Colorado State University
Colorado State University is a research, land grant university located in Fort Collins, Colorado. There are over 150 programs offered across 8 colleges and 55 departments.
CSU’s online Bachelor of Science in Fire and Emergency Services Administration is a 120-credit program that can be completed in 2 years. This program allows students to gain strategic leadership skills through learning how to communicate effectively, think critically, and lead efficiently.
CSU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
10. Colorado Technical University
Colorado Technical University, founded in 1965, has a main campus in Colorado Springs. Most of their degrees can be completed fully online; thus, around 92% of their students are taking their courses online.
The university offers accredited degree programs in business, health sciences, engineering, accounting, business administration, criminal justice, finance, information systems and technology, public administration, and computer science.
Colorado Tech is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
11. Crown College
Crown College is a Christian Higher education institution in Bonifacius, Minnesota. It was founded in 1916, and affiliated with the Christian and Missionary Alliance.
Crown College’s Online Bachelor’s Degree in Disaster and Emergency Management equips learners with skills and knowledge that can be applied to jobs in law enforcement, risk management and response, and relief organizations.
It is based on Christian principles and adheres to the best principles and practices of effective emergency management.
Crown College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
12. Drury University
Drury University was founded in 1873, and for hundreds of years have provided students with pragmatic, collaborative, and personalized education, giving them a wider perspective in life, career, and community.
Drury University’s Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management degree program provides students with a well-rounded learning experience to current and relevant emergency management strategies.
The curriculum blends theoretical perspectives with professional practice and focuses on the application of knowledge to real-world scenarios.
Drury is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
13. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University offers a worldwide diverse selection of programs that can be accessed virtually anywhere.
The university’s B.S. in Emergency Services degree program is proud to carry the “Certificate of Recognition” from Fire Emergency Services Higher Education. This certification means that the curriculum addresses all critical areas that modern fire departments are required to perform.
ERAU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
14. Everglades University
Everglades University, in the state of Florida, has four campuses, which are in Orlando, Boca Raton, Tampa, and Sarasota. The university also offers a wide range of courses online, offering personalized tutoring, support, and counseling.
It was founded in 1990 and was first called American Flyers College. They have small class sizes with students who are predominantly adult learners.
Everglades University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
15. Excelsior College
Excelsior College offers degrees in the associate, bachelor’s, and master’s levels. It is located in Albany, New York, and founded in 1971.
A Bachelor’s degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management at Excelsior College is a 120-credit, fully online program that can help advance one’s career as a first responder.
Excelsior College is accredited by the Commission on Higher Education of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.
16. Franklin University
Franklin University, located in Columbus, Ohio, has been catering to the needs of adult learners since 1902.
Franklin University offers the B.S. Emergency Management & Homeland Security degree program, which trains students to think innovatively and plan strategically when responding to emergency situations.
Core courses include emergency management, risk management, threat assessment, homeland security, safety, and security planning.
Franklin is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
17. George Washington University
George Washington University is a research university in Washington, D.C. Chartered in 1821, it now offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs to over 27,000 students.
The online Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences in Emergency Medical Services Management at George Washington University trains students to develop knowledge and skills in emergency preparedness and management, disaster planning and response, injury prevention, and Homeland Security.
GWU is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
18. Grand Canyon University
Grand Canyon University is a Christian university in Phoenix, Arizona. The University’s BS Homeland Security and Emergency Management program equips learners with leadership and communication skills to work effectively in crisis situations.
It focuses on 4 domains offering students with theoretical knowledge. These domains are emergency management frameworks and practice, organizational management and leadership, research and critical thinking, and relationship building, and community engagement.
GCU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
19. Idaho State University
Situated in Pocatello, Idaho, Idaho State University stands proud as a research university offering more than 280 programs on campus and online.
Idaho State University’s online program in Emergency Management is convenient, flexible, and affordable. Courses are taught by instructors who are experts in their field and provide live interaction and personalized support.
ISU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
20. Immaculata University
Immaculata University is a Catholic university in Malvern, Pennsylvania. It was founded in 1920 by the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary.
The university’s BS Emergency Planning and Management program is recognized by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. It is offered 100% online and aims to help individuals be prepared by planning and directing disaster response activities.
Immaculata University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
21. Jacksonville State University
Jacksonville State University, in Jacksonville, Alabama, was established in 1883 and first known as Jacksonville State Normal School. It changed to its current name in 1966.
Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management at Jacksonville University equips graduates for emergency management jobs in the public, private, and voluntary areas. It has a total of 120 required semester hours, which can be completed online or on campus.
Jacksonville State is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
22. Kansas Wesleyan University
Established in 1886, Kansas Wesleyan University is a Christian higher education institution located in Salina, Kansas.
The university’s BA in Emergency Management is offered on campus, fully online, or hybrid. This program aims to give students theoretical knowledge and practical skills to save lives and protect others. This program is also recognized as one of the best hybrid programs in the nation by intelligent.com.
Kansas Wesleyan is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
23. Mercer University
Mercer University was founded in 1833 and has its main campus in Macon, Georgia.
A BS Homeland Security and Emergency Management at Mercer University is offered 100% online and is geared toward individuals that possess a strong interest and passion in the field of homeland security and emergency response.
It ranked as one of the Most Affordable Online Colleges and Best Online Colleges, according to SR Education Group.
Mercer is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
24. National University
National University, established in 1972, is the largest non-profit university in the state of San Diego. They offer the Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security and Emergency Management degree program, which prepares graduates for careers in security and disaster management sectors.
It is available online and structured in 4-week classes.
National University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
25. Northern Arizona University
Northern Arizona University is a research university with its main campus in Flagstaff, Arizona. It has over 150 degree programs in the undergraduate and graduate levels.
The university offers a Bachelor of Applied Science in Emergency Management. It is a fully online program that teaches students the phases of emergency management as well as the principles of leadership, critical thinking, ethics, and problem-solving.
NAU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
26. Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Northwestern State University is part of the University of Louisiana System. Its main campus is located in Natchitoches, Louisiana.
The university’s Bachelor of Science in Unified Public Safety Administration is an online degree with concentrations in Law Enforcement Administration, Fire and Emergency Medical Service Administration, Emergency Management Administration, and Public Facilities Management.
Northwestern State University of Louisiana is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
27. Ohio Christian University
Ohio Christian University, in Circleville, Ohio, is a Christian university affiliated with the Churches of Christ in Christian Union.
The online Emergency Management Concentration program at Ohio Christian University trains students in the application of the key elements of emergency management strategies, theories, and concepts to practical situations.
Core courses include Introduction to Emergency and Disaster Management, Trauma Healing, Natural and Man-made Disasters, and Conflict.
Ohio Christian is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
28. Post University
Post University, located in Waterbury, Connecticut, was founded in 1890. It offers 25 undergraduate and graduate programs which can be accessed in day and evening classes, and through an online format.
The university’s Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management and Homeland Security degree program is offered online and on campus.
It focuses on the four stages of emergency management and trains students to assess risks, evaluate emergency plans, and apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Post University is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC).
29. State University of New York – Canton
The State University of New York at Canton is a four-year college in Canton, New York. It offers over 50 certificate, associate , and bachelor’s degree programs.
The school offers a BS in Emergency Management online, with 7-week sessions for most courses. Students have access to industry-leading Graphical Information System, hands-on learning, and internships at local and federal agencies.
SUNY Canton is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
30. Thomas Edison State University
Thomas Edison State University, established in 1972, is a liberal arts university in Trenton, New Jersey.
BS Degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management at Thomas Edison State University is designed to provide students with a broad perspective of Homeland Security and emergency management issues.
Courses include public safety, emergency management, security, counterterrorism, homeland security, and many more.
TSU is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
31. University of Alaska – Fairbanks
The University of Alaska – Fairbanks is a research university located in College, Alaska. It was founded in 1917 and was first known as the Alaska Agricultural College and School of Mines before it changed to its current name in 1975.
UAF’s Homeland Security and Emergency Management is an online program with 120 credit hours that prepares graduates for a career in the growing field of emergency services. Classes are small and are led by teachers who are active in the field.
University of Alaska – Fairbanks is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
32. University of Central Missouri
The University of Central Missouri, located in Warrensburg, caters to over 14000 students across 49 states and 59 countries.
Crisis and Disaster Management online program at the University of Central Missouri was ranked #1 in Affordability and Quality by Intelligent.com.
Classes are taught by outstanding and supportive faculty members, who provide students with relevant information about real-world issues faced in the emergency management field.
UCMO is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
33. University of Florida
The University of Florida is a top-ranked research university by U.S. News & World Report, located in Gainesville, Florida.
The Bachelor of Science in Fire and Emergency Services online degree program at the University of Florida is a unique combination of Fire Science, Emergency Medical Services, and Emergency Management courses that help prepare students for rewarding careers in emergency services.
The University of Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
34. University of Nebraska – Omaha
The University of Nebraska – Omaha is a non-sectarian college founded in 1908. It is classified as R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity.
The university’s Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management is offered online and on campus with 120 credit hours, including 30-hour core requirements. Students can choose two concentration areas from 7 concentrations offered online.
UN – Omaha is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
35. University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh
The University of Wisconsin in Oshkosh is part of the University of Wisconsin System and is the third-largest university in the state.
The university’s Fire & Emergency Response Management program has been awarded the Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education recognition certificate.
The University of Wisconsin in Oshkosh is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
36. Upper Iowa University
Upper Iowa University, located in Fayette, Iowa, offers undergraduate and graduate programs in over 40 majors. They offer distance education via online classes and independent study programs.
The university’s Emergency Disaster Management program is aimed at integrating theory with practice in the emergency management field to help students gain a better understanding of how to respond to different types of hazards. It is offered online and at select education centers.
UIU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
37. Utah Valley University
Utah Valley University, in Orem, Utah, offers 45 certificate programs, 65 associate degrees, 91 bachelor’s degrees, 11 master’s degrees, and 30 online degrees.
The university offers BS Emergency Services Administration with two different emphases: Emergency Management and Emergency Care. Both programs are available in online formats with 126 credit hours.
UVU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
38. Waldorf University
Waldorf University is located in Forest City, Iowa. Founded in 1903, it has been delivering quality education for over 100 years.
The Bachelor of Arts in Emergency Management at Waldorf University is designed to educate students with a broad base of knowledge in the emergency management field. Students will take courses in homeland security, fire science administration, and business.
Waldorf U is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
39. West Texas A&M University
West Texas A&M University offers online degree programs that are not only flexible and convenient but also high-quality and top-ranked.
They are distinguished as the Best Online Bachelor’s Programs by US News & World Report. Online programs and courses can be done 100% online or in a hybrid format.
The university’s Emergency Management Administration program can be completed full-time or part-time. It prepares graduates for careers as emergency responders, police officers, and firefighters, among others.
WTAMU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
40. Western Carolina University
of the University of North Carolina System.
The university offers online BS Emergency and Disaster Management to help communities and businesses prepare effectively for natural disasters and emergencies. Students will be exposed to both theory and practice by faculty who are experts in the field.
WCU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Types of Emergency Management Degrees
Click on the area you’re interested in to jump to that part of the page.
- Emergency Management
- Criminal Justice
- Cyber Security
- Fire Science
- Homeland Security
- Information Systems Security
- Law Enforcement
- Logistics
- Network Security
- Public Safety Administration
While all of these fields fall within emergency management, the roles of each very different.
Emergency Management
If you want to become a leader in public safety or emergency management, then earning an online bachelor’s degree in emergency management can help you get started.
This course of study can help you find work with the federal government, a municipality, a law enforcement agency, or a corporation.
You may begin your studies with classes like Foundations of Emergency Management and Introduction to Public Administration.
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During your time in the program, you can learn about disaster planning, safety precautions for hazardous materials, fire prevention, and infectious disease control. You may also study terrorism, weapons, and explosives.
The curriculum may cover methods of security for municipalities, borders, ports, and coastal regions. After earning this degree and accumulating a few years of experience, you might be able to work as an emergency management director. That job pays an average annual salary of $76,250. Positions are expected to increase at a 4% rate (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Criminal Justice
If you have a passion for righting wrongs, protecting the innocent or restoring criminal offenders, then consider a degree in criminal justice. You can gain skills that are useful in the court system, a law enforcement agency, or a correctional facility.
This program can introduce you to an overview of criminal law and systems for enforcing the law. You can study methods that are used for investigating crimes and strategies for reducing crime rates.
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Understanding the thought patterns of criminal offenders may help you conduct investigations and guide convicted criminals toward new behaviors. You may be able to select a concentration for your major, such as digital forensics, juvenile corrections, or crime scene investigation.
If you choose to become a police officer or a detective after getting your degree, you might earn around $67,290 each year (Bureau of Labor Statistics). Other job options include corrections officer, probation officer, security guard, or crime scene investigator.
Cyber Security
Are you interested in protecting computer systems from hacking, terrorism, and other security breaches? You could earn your online bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity to help prepare you for that career path.
Gaining a good handle on information systems and their structures is one of the first steps to earning this degree, so you may take a class like Introduction to Networks.
Then you can start exploring methods of protecting information, mitigating risks, employing cryptography, and understanding criminal behavior. You may also learn to respond to incidents after they occur and conduct investigations into the source of the problem.
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This degree often leads to a career as an information security analyst. In that job, you might earn an average salary of around $103,590, and positions are expected to grow at a rate of 31% (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Other job possibilities include being an investigator or a security manager. You might work for the government or a private organization.
Fire Science
If you want to protect people and property from the dangers of fire a degree in fire science might be right for you. Earning this degree can give you an advantage in being hired for firefighter positions or moving into leadership roles.
A typical fire science curriculum will include classes on combustion and burn patterns. It will also include information on how to reduce the likelihood of fires starting, spread fire awareness throughout a community, and keep yourself safe while extinguishing blazes.
The classes may also help you learn to investigate the causes of fires. You might gain administrative and leadership skills that can help you run public safety organizations.
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Firefighters usually earn around $52,500 each year. Their supervisors may earn an annual salary of about $77,800 (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Career options to consider include municipal firefighting, forest firefighting, fire investigating, and fire inspecting. You could also pursue a job as an emergency medical technician.
Homeland Security
If you know that your goal is to promote national security, then emergency management could be a good area of study for you. In addition to helping you prepare for government positions, this degree program can also equip you with skills that can transfer to the private sector.
This program can introduce you to the laws and regulations that govern homeland security operations. You can also study ways to protect people, infrastructure, industries, information, and the environment.
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Terrorism is a common topic for this program, and you may learn about strategies and weapons that are used by terrorists around the world. You may take multiple classes on intelligence, including gathering data and analyzing it.
With this online degree, you could work for the federal government’s Department of Homeland Security. Your knowledge may also be useful for positions with your state or local government. You could even get a job as a security specialist for a private organization.
Information Systems Security
You can become an expert in computer information systems and how to keep them safe. An online degree program in information systems security can help give you essential tools that are in demand by government agencies and private companies.
The coursework for this program may include classes like Introduction to Computer Systems and Network Design. Other potential classes should include information on programming languages, IT developments, security laws, and forensic practices.
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You should also study hacking — both how to run ethical hacking tests and how to understand the techniques used by criminals. Portions of your study may focus on specific disciplines that require digital security, such as e-commerce or cloud storage.
Jobs in computers and information technology are expected to grow at a 11% rate for the next ten years. You may be able to work as an information security analyst, a network systems administrator, a cybersecurity consultant, an intelligence analyst, or a data security professional.
Law Enforcement
If you want to become the best police officer you can be, it may be a good idea to get a bachelor’s degree in law enforcement. Your studies can equip you to uphold the law, influence policy decisions, and steer agencies in positive directions.
Law enforcement degrees introduce students to the principles of criminal law and systems used for upholding the law. They also include courses on how to prepare for emergencies, investigate crimes, and support victims.
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The classes may also give you ideas for working among diverse offender populations, including juveniles. You can gain leadership and administration skills that can help you as you advance through the ranks of your law enforcement agency.
With this degree, you may work in a municipal or federal law enforcement agency. As a police supervisor, you might earn around $91,090 each year (Bureau of Labor Statistics). You may be able to enter a specialized law enforcement discipline, such as being a railroad police officer or a game warden.
Logistics
If you’re interested in maintaining safety and security along transportation lines, then a degree in logistics can help provide the skills and knowledge that you need. People in this line of work oversee the movement of goods from one place to another.
Logistics studies commonly cover how materials are acquired and moved along the supply chain. You can learn to work with vendors, negotiate contracts, and keep track of inventory. Some classes may address transporting hazardous or sensitive materials.
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Other studies will probably include the intricacies of international imports and exports and discuss the security aspects of bringing items across borders. This may include studies in air and sea transportation.
Your degree in logistics could help you get a job with a manufacturer, a transportation company, a wholesaler, or the federal government. Logistics managers and transportation supervisors earn an average annual salary of about $96,390 (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Network Security
With expertise in network security, you can help organizations protect their private data. Your efforts may also contribute to a better understanding of how to protect systems from illegal hacking.
The courses for a network security program may include foundational classes like Computer Hardware Fundamentals and Introduction to Networking. You can build on that with classes that cover operating systems, programming languages, network design, and algorithms.
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After that, you can move into courses that focus on the security aspects of networking; you may learn about firewalls, cryptography, ethical hacking, and online and wireless security. To round out your studies, you may take classes in team leadership and project management.
As a network or computer systems administrator, you might earn around $84,810 annually. After gaining professional experience, you may be able to get a job as a computer or information systems manager. The average pay for that role is $151,150 each year (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Public Safety Administration
When a disaster strikes, will you be prepared to help? An online bachelor’s degree in public safety administration can help you develop the know-how to coordinate people and systems during emergency situations.
To prepare for a career in public safety administration, you’ll need to learn to identify risks and craft response plans. You may also explore laws that regulate public safety services and think about how to influence policies.
Other topics may include communicating with the public and bringing projects to fruition. The classes may cover leadership issues like decision making, grant writing, financial management, and conflict resolution.
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You may have the option to choose a concentration like criminal justice or disaster management.
After completing your studies, you may be able to work as a first responder with a local agency. You could also get a federal government job, become a juvenile caseworker, or find employment as a risk manager with a private organization.
Courses for a Bachelor’s Degree in Emergency Management
The field of emergency management is all about being prepared, so emergency management degree programs feature classes that help students learn about potential risks, think through ways to reduce their impact, and respond appropriately when a disaster does strike.
You can learn to provide leadership and guidance for the protection of both people and property. Here is a sample of common classes in emergency management programs:
- Emergency Preparedness: This course focuses on making plans and preparations for disasters that might occur. Part of that involves being aware of potential threats through risk analysis and management. This course also discusses how to formulate plans and ensure coordination between various agencies.
- Introduction to Disaster Management: This foundational course can help set you up for success in the rest of your emergency management studies. You may learn about the disaster-response cycle, get to know federal emergency management policies, and consider the personnel and agencies that typically play a role in mitigating crises.
- Public Administration: In this class, you can learn about the roles and responsibilities of a public administrator. You may analyze case studies or earn practicum hours in a local agency.
- Public Policy and Emergency Management Law: This class discusses the laws and regulations that guide disaster response at the local, state, and federal levels. There may also be opportunities to discuss ethical leadership for emergency management and public safety professionals.
- Terrorism and Intelligence: This course can introduce you to terrorist groups and give you insight into their members. You can learn about government efforts to stay apprised of these groups and thwart their attacks.
Each school has a somewhat different curriculum, and choosing an area of specialization may further influence your course selection. Even still, the above list can give you a general idea of the studies you can expect in your online emergency management degree program.
What Can You Do with a Bachelor’s in Emergency Management?
Disaster management professionals come in all forms. Some have titles specifically related to handling crises; for example, they may be police supervisors or emergency management directors.
Others work in a different field, but their efforts can help protect systems, improve communication, or maintain infrastructure.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, some careers in the emergency management field include:
| Career | Responsibilities | Median Annual Salary |
| Information Security Analyst | Look for cybersecurity breaches and guard against future attacks | $103,590 |
| Transportation Manager | Coordinate movement of goods or materials along the supply chain | $96,390 |
| Police Supervisor | Manage teams of police officers or detectives | $91,090 |
| Detective | Investigate criminal activity | $86,940 |
| Network Systems Administrator | Oversee the structure and security of an organization’s computer networks | $84,810 |
| Emergency Management Director | Coordinate preparedness plans and lead response teams | $76,250 |
| Transit Police | Provide protection for railroads and other transit companies | $72,580 |
| Police Officer | Promote public safety by monitoring for suspicious behavior and apprehending suspects | $65,540 |
| Fish and Game Warden | Oversee wildlife populations in an area and people’s interactions with them | $58,040 |
| Correctional Treatment Specialist | Coordinate rehabilitation services for criminal offenders | $55,690 |
| Firefighter | Suppress blazes and promote fire safety | $52,500 |
| Transportation Security Screener | Ensure that people and cargo on mass transportation systems are free of harmful agents | $41,770 |
| Security Guard | Maintain the safety and security of facilities or individuals | $31,050 |
Most emergency management positions require only a bachelor’s degree, but furthering your education may help you advance your career.
To qualify for a supervisory position or increase your salary, think about someday going back to school for an on-campus or online emergency management master’s degree.
After that, if you would like to work at the highest levels of emergency management, or to teach at a college or university, you may want to consider either going back to the classroom, or, if you are too busy with work, earning an online PhD in Emergency Management.
Professional Organizations for Those with an Emergency Management Degree
Working in emergency management can be stressful. Building a support system of like-minded professionals around you can help you through the ups and downs of this job.
Joining a professional organization can provide opportunities to network with other emergency management teams.
- Disaster Recovery Institute International: DRI offers resources to help emergency management professionals improve their preparedness and response strategies. The group offers conferences, online training sessions, and certification programs. There are also scholarship opportunities, job boards, and special committees for various interest groups.
- The International Association for Counterterrorism and Security Professionals: IACSP is committed to supporting counterterrorism efforts and promoting freedom for people worldwide. Members receive subscriptions to a magazine and a newsletter, online resources, and professional discounts.
- The International Association for Preparedness and Response: DERA strives to help professionals prepare for disasters through strong communications and logistics plans. Members have access to newsletters and online groups.
- International Association of Emergency Managers: IAEM promotes excellence in emergency management by distributing awards, issuing certifications, and holding conferences. Membership benefits include industry advocacy, certification opportunities, and job boards.
- National Emergency Management Association: NEMA represents emergency management directors who work for government agencies or private organizations. The organization has publications, discounts, conferences, and online resources for its members.
The sooner you join these groups, the sooner you can start learning from the other members and taking advantage of the many membership benefits. You may qualify for a student rate while in school.
Emergency Management Certification
You can demonstrate your expertise in a particular aspect of disaster management by earning an online emergency management certificate. For example, you might pursue a certificate in risk management or cybersecurity.
Adding such credentials to your resume can demonstrate to potential employers that you’ve gone the extra mile to rise to the top of your field.
Many certification programs are administered by industry organizations, such as Disaster Recovery Institute International and the International Association of Emergency Managers.
Earning credentials from these organizations typically requires paying a fee and passing an exam. You may need to prove a certain level of professional experience as well.
Colleges also offer certification programs. You can earn that type of certificate by taking classes. The college credits that you earn in the certificate program may later transfer into a bachelor’s or master’s degree program.
Accreditation for an Online Emergency Management Degree
You should earn your online emergency management degree from a regionally accredited college or university. That means that the school has been approved by one of the seven regional accreditors in the U.S
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Accredited institutions, whether traditional or online, uphold high standards of academic excellence throughout all of their programs.
To ensure that you’re learning up-to-date, thorough information in your emergency management program, you may want to look for a school with industry accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Emergency Management and Homeland Security Education (CAEME/CAEMHSE).
This group recognizes bachelor’s degree programs in emergency management. Currently, only a handful of schools hold this distinction.
Financial Aid for an Emergency Management Students
Financial aid from government programs or private sources can help you pay for your college degree in emergency management.
Online schools are sometimes more affordable than traditional programs since they don’t require on-campus housing. Even still, it’s smart to get help with your tuition costs.
Start by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This is how you’ll learn what federal help you can get. You may be eligible for grants, loans, or work-study programs.
Check to see if your state government offers similar assistance. You may be able to increase your financial package by combining state and federal aid.
It’s a good idea to apply for a variety of scholarships, both big and small. Look into scholarship programs from your college, your employer, local organizations, industry associations, civic clubs, and special-interest groups.
You may be chosen based on the strength of your personal essay or other application materials.
Is Emergency Management a Good Degree?
Emergency management can be a deeply rewarding career path because it can give you opportunities to protect people and help them through times of crisis. Plus, this is a varied field, so you’ll have a number of job paths available to you after earning an emergency management degree.
For example, you might go into law enforcement, cybersecurity, or firefighting.
Can You Get a Degree from FEMA?
The FEMA Independent Study program can allow you to earn a certificate through free online classes. Additionally, a select number of students qualify to take in-person courses through the agency’s Emergency Management Institute.
Even still, you can’t get a full degree from FEMA. The agency does maintain a helpful list of colleges that offer emergency management programs.
How Do I Get Emergency Management Experience?
Moving into a director role or qualifying for some certifications will require you to have experience in the field of emergency management.
You may need to start with entry-level positions in public health organizations, transit facilities, municipal governments, or law enforcement agencies. Another idea is to volunteer with humanitarian organizations or community planning groups.
Networking with fellow members of a professional organization may help you find internship opportunities.
Is an Online Emergency Management Degree Different Than a Traditional Degree?
The only difference between a traditional and an online emergency management degree is how students gain their knowledge and skills. In the end, both degrees are widely accepted by both colleges and employers.
Is an Emergency Management Degree Worth It?
Yes, an emergency management degree is worth it for many students. The Bureau of Labor Statistics is projecting 5% job growth in management occupations over the next 10 years. Common careers in this field include correctional treatment specialist, police officer, emergency management director, detective, and information security analyst.
Earning your degree in emergency management can prepare you to assume critical roles in organizations that assess risks, protect property, and save lives.
Whether you prevent crises from happening or step in as a leader in times of need, this is a career path that you can feel good about.
To learn more about what an emergency management degree can do for you — and what you can do for the people around you — submit applications to programs that specialize in safety, security, and crisis response.
