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Top 17 Emergency Management Undergraduate Programs for Disaster Preparedness

Emergency management is critical for communities in the event of natural disasters or man-made emergencies. An emergency management degree can prepare you to work in this vital field and help protect your community in times of need.

There are many reasons to consider studying emergency management at the undergraduate level. Emergency managers play a vital role in coordinating response and relief efforts during times of crisis. They also develop plans and policies to prevent or mitigate the effects of disasters.

An emergency management degree can give you the skills and knowledge you need to be successful in this field. You will learn about disaster preparedness, response, and recovery. You will also gain an understanding of risk assessment and hazard mitigation. These skills are essential for any emergency manager.

Here are a variety of amazing degrees in emergency management for your consideration:

Adelphi University – BS in Emergency Services Administration

Adelphi University in Garden City, New York, offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Services Administration that is accredited by the New York State Education Department and the Middle States and Commission on Higher Education. With this program, students can choose to complete all coursework online or to split their studies between online and on-campus courses. All students in the program take the following classes: Organizational Behavior; Principles of Emergency Services; Emergency Services Management and Administration; Legal Aspects of Emergency Services; Introduction to Financial Concepts; Emergency and Disaster Preparedness; Master Planning for Public Emergency Management; Occupational Safety and Health;  Emergency Services Leadership; Introduction to Psychology; Conflict Management; Society and the Individual and Principles of Management.

American Public University – Bachelor of Arts in Emergency and Disaster Management

American Public University in Charles Town, West Virginia, offers a Bachelor of Arts in Emergency and Disaster Management that is accredited by the Foundation of Higher Education (FoHE) for Disaster and Emergency Management and Homeland Security. Every class for the program is offered online, and students can complete coursework on a full-time or part-time basis. Students in the program are required to take the following core classes: Research Analysis, and Writing; Introduction to Emergency Management; Emergency Planning; Emergency and Disaster Incident Command; Natural Disaster Management; Consequence Management; Special Operations in Emergency Medical Services; Public Policy; Psychology of Disaster; and Introduction to Meteorology with Lab.

Anderson University – Bachelor of Emergency Services Management

Anderson University in Anderson, South Carolina, offers a Bachelor of Arts in Emergency Services Management that is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Students can choose one of two tracks to the degree. Both concentrations require students to take the following courses: All Hazards Primer; Principles of Emergency Services Management; Emergency Management Planning and Technical Writing; Crisis Communications and Leadership Crisis; Emergency Services Technology; Senior Seminar; and Intro to Computers. Then, students take classes in concentration electives related to their specific areas of interest. University-wide general education classes are also required.

Arizona State University – Bachelor of Applied Science in Emergency Management/Homeland Security

Arizona State University in Phoenix, Arizona, offers a Bachelor of Applied Science Emergency Management & Homeland Security degree that is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The program is offered entirely online and gives working students the opportunity to complete requirements on a part-time basis. Mandatory courses include Public Service Research Methods or Computer Applications in Emergency Management; Applied Statistics; Public Service Ethics; Contemporary Policy Challenges; Building Leadership Skills; Public Management and Administration; Introduction to Emergency Management; Comprehensive Emergency Management; National Incident Management Systems; Simulation and Exercising and Terrorism Defense. All students are also required to complete a Capstone Senior Project.

Arizona State University – Bachelor of Science Public Service and Public Policy Emergency Management/Homeland Security

Arizona State University in Phoenix, Arizona, offers a Bachelor of Science Public Service & Public Policy: Emergency Management & Homeland Security degree that is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The coursework for this program is split between on-campus and online classes. Some of the classes required for graduation include Introduction to Criminal Justice; Introductory Sociology; Public Service and Policy in the 21st Century; Criminal Justice Crime Control Policies and Practices; Persuasive Writing on Public Issues; Leadership and Change; Applied Statistics; and Introduction to Emergency Management. Every student is also responsible for completing a Senior Capstone Project related to their specific interests and career goals.

Arkansas State University – BS in Disaster Preparedness and EM

Arkansas State University in Jonesboro, Arkansas, offers a Bachelor of Science in Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management that is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission North Central Association. Required courses include Crisis Communications; Theory Development in Disaster Preparedness; Research Design and Methodology in Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management; Global Perspectives; Health Care Issues and Policies; Ethics and Legal topics; and Seminar Topics in Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management. These classes are all offered online. During their senior years, students must complete a culminating activity that consists of either an internship, a research project or a thesis paper.

Arkansas Tech University – Bachelor of Science degree in Emergency Management

Arkansas Tech University in Russellville, Arkansas, offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management that is accredited by the Foundation on Higher Education in Disaster/Emergency Management and Homeland Security, and the Higher Learning Commission and is also a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Mandatory courses for the major include Aim and Scope of Emergency Management; Developing Emergency Management Skills; Principles of Preparedness and Response Operations; Introduction to Ethical and Legal Issues in Emergency Management; Emergency Management Doctrine; Principles of Disaster Relief and Recovery; Mitigation and Continuity of Operations; Geographic Information Systems in Emergency Management; and Emergency Management Research Methods/Analysis. All students are also required to take additional electives and complete a capstone research project.

Bellevue University – BS in Emergency Management International Disaster Relief/Humanitarian Assistance

Bellevue University in Bellevue, Nebraska, offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management that is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCACS). Ideal for recent high school graduates and working professionals alike, the program is taught entirely online with no on-campus coursework required. The classes for the major include Foundations for Professional Success; Introduction to Emergency Management; Natural Disasters; Terrorism; The National Incident Management System; Emergency Communications; Emergency Planning; Exercise Design; Legal Issues in Emergency Management; and Kirkpatrick Signature Series Requirements. Additionally, all students complete a capstone senior project.

Columbia College – Bachelor of Arts in Emergency Management

Columbia College in Columbia, South Carolina, offers a Bachelor of Arts in Emergency Management that is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Every student in the program takes the following core courses: Introduction to Emergency Management; Introduction to Homeland Security; Psychological and Social Dimensions of Disaster; Introduction to the Science of Hazards; Planning for Emergency and Disaster Management; Communication Skills for Emergency Management; Introduction to Public Administration; and Leadership in Emergency Management Organizations. Students also select five electives from these options: Community Resiliency, Recovery and Mitigation; Hazard Mapping and Modeling; Disasters and Public Health; Terrorism in the Modern World; Weapons of Mass Destruction; Cyber and Information Security; Risk Analysis and Threat Assessment; Homeland Security Law and Public Policy; Management of Human Resources; Strategic Planning; International Disaster Response; Terrorist Organizations: Structure and Operations; Emergency Management of Epidemics and Bioterrorism; and Response to Explosive Devices and Incidents.

Crown College, School of Online Studies – Bachelor of Science in Disaster and Emergency Management

Crown College in St. Bonifacius, Minnesota, offers a Bachelor of Science in Disaster and Emergency Management that is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association. The program takes a religious approach to the subject, examining a number of issues from a Christian perspective. Students are responsible for taking the following classes: Management Principles; Introduction to Emergency Management; Political and Policy Basis of Emergency Management; Crisis and Risk Communication; Emergency Preparedness & Planning; Disaster Response, Recovery and Operations Management; Principles and Practice of Hazards Mitigation; Emergency Relief and Community Development; Social Science Research Methods; Statistical Concepts; American Government; Sociology; Foundations of Christian Thought; Christian Faith and Reason; and Concepts of Global and Ethical Leadership. Every class required for graduation is offered online.

Drury University – Bachelor of Science Degree in Emergency Management

Drury University in Springfield, Missouri, offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management that is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association. This on-campus degree program includes the following classes: Introduction to EM Principles and Practice; Hazard Identification; Social Aspects of Disaster; Disaster Planning and Preparedness; Disaster Response; Disaster Recovery; Hazard Mitigation; Private Sector Crisis and Emergency Management; Public Information Management; Financial Basics for Leaders; Foundations of Leadership I; Negotiation and Conflict Resolution; and Grant Writing. Students must also take a variety of general education classes and participate in an emergency management internship prior to graduation.

Eastern Michigan University – Bachelor of Science Degree in Public Safety Administration

Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti, Michigan, offers a Bachelor of Science in Public Safety Administration that is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association. The program consists of four sections. The first is the core coursework, which includes Policing in Society; U.S. Racial and Cultural Minorities or Civil Rights and Civil Liberties in a Diverse U.S. State and Local Government or Urban Politics; and Communication in Negotiation or Organizational Communication. Next, students take administrative courses that include Public Administration; Public and Nonprofit Personnel Administration; Politics of Public and Nonprofit Budgeting; Theories of Public and Nonprofit Organization; and Managing Public Safety Agencies. The third section of the program focuses on electives related to students’ individual interests, and the final section is an internship or co-op experience.

Eastern New Mexico University – Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, Minor in Emergency Management, and a Certificate in Emergency Management

Eastern New Mexico University in Portales, New Mexico, offers a Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, a Minor in Emergency Management, and a Certificate in Emergency Management that are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Students can complete all three programs entirely online. For the bachelor’s degree, students take the following classes: Introduction to Emergency Management; Disaster Response; Disaster Recovery; Emergency Services Administration and Management; Emergency Preparedness; Hazard Mitigation; Community Risk Reduction for Fire and Emergency Services; Legal, Political and Regulatory Issues; and Public Health Emergencies or Homeland Security. A Capstone in Emergency Management is also required.

Elizabeth City State University – BS in Emergency Management

Elizabeth City State University in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management that is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). All students are required to take 35 hours of general education classes, 18 hours of related area electives and 28 hours of free electives plus 39 hours of emergency management core coursework. These classes include Intro. to Emergency Management; Disaster Response and Recovery; Hazard Mitigation and Preparedness; Emergency Services Law and Ethics; Social Dimensions of Disaster; Emergency Disaster Preparedness; Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD); Global Terrorism; Emergency Planning; Practice & Politics of Mitigation; and Hazard Analysis & Risk Assessment. Every student completes one internship. To complete the program, students must participate in a senior seminar, a second internship or a capstone project course.

Everglades University – Bachelor of Science Degree with a Major in Crisis and Disaster Management

Everglades University in Boca Raton, Florida, offers a Bachelor of Science with a Major in Crisis and Disaster Management that is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Upper level coursework required for the degree includes Critical Thinking in Business; Human Resource Management Relationship Management; Writing for Managers; Crisis and Disaster Psychology; Community Disaster Mitigation and Recovery; Emergency Preparedness and Response; Emergency Management and Public Policy; Hazard Analysis and Risk Assessment; Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Operation and Design; Crisis and Disaster Management and Public Outreach; Terrorism and Homeland Security; Disaster and Society; Disaster Health Management; and Business Continuity Planning and Management. The program concludes with a Capstone project.

Franklin University – Bachelor’s degree in Emergency Management and Homeland Security

Franklin University in Columbus, Ohio, offers a bachelor’s degree in Emergency Management and Homeland Security that is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission: North Central Association. Every student in the program must complete a Capstone project and pass the following courses: Evidence Based Practice & Research Methods in the Criminal Justice

Professions; Introduction to Grant Writing for Nonprofits; Training & Development; Introduction to Public Administration; Government & Nonprofit Budgeting; Ethics & Leadership in Public Safety Agencies; and Introduction to Emergency Management & Homeland Security. In addition, students choose either Homeland security or emergency management and disaster response as an area of concentration for elective coursework.

Grand Canyon University – Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management Program

Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, Arizona, offers a Bachelor of Science in Public Safety and Emergency Management Program that is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association. The 120-credit program includes 34 to 40 credit hours of general education coursework and 44 to 50 hours of elective credits. A total of 36 hours of Public Safety and Emergency Management core classes is also required. These classes include Servant Leadership; Organizational Behavior and Management; History and Development of Emergency Management; Emergency Operations and Techniques; Mitigation Planning; Disaster Response and Recovery; Terrorism’s Impact on Emergency Management; Project Management; and Action Research Project.  At least four credits of Christian education are required for graduation.

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Idaho State University Meridian – Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management

Idaho State University Meridian in Meridian, Idaho, offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management that is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. The entire program is offered online for student convenience. Core courses include Incident Command System Advanced; Hazards Mitigation; Disaster Response and Recovery Advanced;  Integrated Systems in Emergency Management; Political & Policy Basis of Emergency Management; Hazardous Materials Management; Social Dimensions of Disaster; Leading in Organizations; Research & Analysis Methods in Emergency Management; and Critical Infrastructure Public-Private Issues. Students are also required to complete an internship; however, those with at least two years of work experience in emergency management can have this requirement waived.

Immaculata University – Bachelor of Science in Emergency Planning and Management

Immaculata University in Immaculata, Pennsylvania, offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Planning and Management that is accredited by the Commission of Higher Education Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. Students have the opportunity to complete all coursework online or on campus or opt for a blend of classroom and distance learning courses. Internships are not required but are available for all interested students. The courses required for the degree are Principles of Emergency Planning & Management; Emergency Planning Systems; Risk Analysis and Threat Assessment; Public Sector Accounting & Finance; Legal Aspects of Emergency Management; Human Dimensions: Community Planning and Disaster Management; and a Capstone project.

Indiana Tech – BS in Emergency Response Management

Indiana Institute of Technology, or Indiana Tech, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, offers a bachelor’s degree in emergency response management that is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. A number of courses are required for the degree, including: American Government; Introduction to Sociology and Social Problems; Introduction to Psychology; Understanding Diversity; Anatomy & Physiology; English Composition I, English Composition II; Professional Communication; Foundations of Mathematics II, Mathematical Problem-Solving; Foundations of Statistics; Foundations of Business; Principles of Management; Foundations of Business Communications; Organizational Behavior; Corporate Communications; Labor Relations; Software Tools; Introduction to Emergency Management; Incident Command Fundamentals; Disaster Response Operations and Management; Introduction to Homeland Security; Legal and Ethical Aspects of Emergency Response and Management; Risk Management; Financial Systems for Emergency Management; and Emergency Planning. All students also complete a mandatory capstone project.

Jacksonville State University – Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management with a Minor in Homeland Security or Public Safety Telecommunications

Jacksonville State University in Anniston, Alabama, offers a bachelor’s degree in emergency response management that is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. All students in the program must either complete a minor in homeland security or public safety telecommunications or double major in a related field. For the major, the following courses are required: Introduction to Disaster Management; Disaster Mitigation & Preparedness; Populations at Risk; Disaster Response & Recovery; Emergency Management Capstone Course; and Research in Disasters & Emergency Management.

John Jay College of Criminal Justice (CUNY) – Bachelor of Science in Emergency Services Administration

John Jay College, City University of New York in New York, New York, offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Services Administration that is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools. Every student in the program is required to participate in a semester-long internship. In addition, students take the following classes:  Introduction to Emergency Management; Emergency Incident Management; Responder Health, Protection and Safety; Risk Management; Introduction to Public Administration; Decisions in Crises; Introduction to Fire Science; Analysis of Urban Hazardous Materials; Tactics and Strategy; Fire Safety Administration; Building Construction and Life Safety Systems I; Fire Investigations; Hazard Identification and Mitigation; Management Applications in Fire Protection; Faculty Mentored Research Experience in Fire Science; Emergency Dispatch and Communications; Geographic Information Systems for Emergency Services; and Response to Large Scale Disasters and Mass Casualty Incidents,

Kansas Wesleyan University – Bachelor of Arts in Emergency Management

Kansas Wesleyan University in Salina, Kansas, offers a Bachelor of Arts in Emergency Management that is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Students in the program can choose from the following areas of specialization: homeland security, victim services or non-governmental organization. Regardless of specialization, students must take the following core courses: Introduction to Emergency Management; Hazard Mitigation/Preparedness; Crisis Communication; Disaster Response/Recovery; Homeland Security Public Policy; Criminal Justice Administration; Grant Writing and Public Policy. An internship is also required for all concentrations.

Kaplan University – Bachelor of Science in Fire and Emergency Management

Kaplan University in Davenport, Iowa, offers a Bachelor of Science in Fire and Emergency Management that is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission. This 180-credit baccalaureate program requires the following classes: Introduction to Fire and Emergency Services; Fire Prevention Practices; Introduction to Emergency Management; Principles of Emergency Services; Ethics for the Fire and Emergency Services; Legal Aspects of Emergency Services; Preparedness and Planning for Emergency Management; Emergency Management Response; Crisis Management in Terrorist Attacks and Disasters; Community Risk Reduction for Fire and Emergency Services; Recovery Practices in Emergency Management; Fire Prevention Organization and Management; Political, Ethical, and Legal Foundations of Emergency Services; Leadership and Management; Personnel Management for Fire; Emergency Services Mitigation and Risk Assessment in Emergency Management; and Disaster Policy in Emergency Management. A capstone project is also mandatory.

Lee University – BA or BS Disaster and Healthcare Mission Management

Lee University in Cleveland, Tennessee, offers both Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts degree programs in Fire and Emergency Management that are accredited by The Higher Learning Commission. All students in the program are required to take a number of religious studies courses and to participate in an internship. Core courses for the major include Environmental Science; Resource Dev. For Nonprofit Organizations; Crisis Response Finance and Funding; Intro to Humanitarian Healthcare Response; Disaster Management; Healthcare Mission Mobilization & Mgmt.; Leadership Application in the Field; Basic Health Survival; Management of Logistics; Critical Response in the Field; Holistic Care in Healthcare Response; Healthcare Disaster Response & Manage; Immersion Training; Special Situations in the Field; Intro. Leadership in Professional Practice; Health Promotion/Disease Prevention; Christian Faith and Ethical Practice Seminar; and Social Dimensions and Impact of Disaster.

Louisiana State University – BA or BS in Geography with Concentration in Disaster Science and Management

Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, both Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts degree programs in Geography that are accredited by The Higher Learning Commission. As a part of this program, students can opt for concentration in disaster science and management. Degree requirements differ depending on whether students opt to pursue the arts or science degree track. All students do take the following classes: Hazards, Disaster, and the Environment; Fundamentals of Emergency Management; and Hazards Risk Reduction. In addition, students must take either Computer Cartography or Environmental Remote Sensing.

Louisiana State University – Undergrad Minor in Disaster Science and Management

Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, offers a Undergraduate Minor in Disaster Science and Management that is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The minor must be taken along with another major degree program. All students take Hazards, Disaster, and the Environment; Fundamentals of Emergency Management; and Hazards Risk Reduction plus either Computer Cartography or Environmental Remote Sensing. Students then choose two electives from the following list: Geography of Louisiana; Meteorology; Climatology; Physical Climatology; Geographical Hydrology; Geomorphology; Coastal Resources & Management; Environment and Development; The Tropical Atmosphere; Special Topics in Geography; Internship in Geography/Disaster Science and Management; Undergraduate Seminar in Anthropology; Ethnographic Methods; and Special Topics in Anthropology.

Madonna University – Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management

Madonna University in Livonia, Michigan, offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management that is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. To complete the program, students must choose nine elective classes and complete the following core courses: Introduction to Criminal Justice; Introduction to Fire Protection/Prevention; Foundations of Emergency Management; Emergency Communication; Disaster Exercise Planning; Resource Allocation & Planning; Industrial Espionage & Operations Security; Senior Seminar; Proposal Writing & Grant Administration; Hazardous Materials I; and Psychology of Traumatic Experiences. In addition, students must pass the following support courses: Basic Human Physiology; General Chemistry I; Introductory Principles of Forensic Science; and Intermediate Algebra or Probability and Statistics.

Massachusetts Maritime Academy – Bachelor of Science Degree in Emergency Management

Massachusetts Maritime Academy in Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts, offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management that is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. Students have the opportunity to choose one of the following areas of concentration: Homeland Security, Marine Science Safety and Environmental Protection, or Occupational Health and Safety. In addition, all students have a chance to participate in an overseas exchange program, studying abroad in Copenhagen, Denmark, at the Metropolitan University College. Students in all specializations must complete a Capstone project.

Mercer University – Online Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security and Emergency Management

Mercer University in Macon, Georgia, offers a Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security and Emergency Management that is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. The entire program is offered online; however, interested students can complete a service learning project. Those who do not choose this field placement opportunity complete a research project instead. Core coursework includes: Interpersonal Communication; Forensic Behavior; Foundations of Leadership; Budgeting for Nonfinancial Leaders; Applied Research Methods; Intro to Homeland Security and Emergency Management; Terrorism; The Effects of Disaster on Society; Intelligence Gathering and Dissemination; Ethics and Public Safety Leadership; and Senior Seminar.

Metropolitan College of New York – AA and BA in Emergency Management & Business Continuity

Metropolitan College of New York in New York, New York, offers both Associate of Arts and Bachelor of Arts degrees in Emergency Management & Business Continuity degree that are accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. For both programs, students must take the following classes: Self-Assessment and Career Planning; Critical Thinking & Writing; Human Biology; Introduction to Homeland Security; Computer Applications;

Developing Professional Relationship in the Community, Contemporary Values

& Classical Ethics; Psychology of Disaster; Introduction to Emergency Management;   Quantitative & Qualitative Analysis; Negotiating and Promoting a Risk Analysis; Political & Economic Philosophy; Understanding Terrorism; Introduction to Business Continuity; Principles of Accounting; Integrating Emergency Planning Into a Management System; World

Civilizations; American Government; Community Health Services; and Cyber-Security. The bachelor’s degree requires additional electives and general education courses.

North Dakota State University Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management

North Dakota State University in Fargo, North Dakota, offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management that is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Every student is required to complete both a senior capstone project and an internship in the field. Required core courses include Emergencies, Disasters & Catastrophes; Disaster Preparedness; Disaster Mitigation; Disaster Response; Disaster Recovery; and Career & Professional Development. Students also choose five classes from the following electives: Understanding Terrorism, Cybersecurity and Other Emerging Threats; Hazard, Risk and Vulnerability Assess.; World Disasters; Issues in Homeland Security & Emergency Management; Understanding Vulnerable Populations in Disasters; Business Continuity & Crisis Management; Voluntary Agency Disaster Services; and Disaster Analysis.

Northern Arizona University – BAS or Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies in EM

Northern Arizona University in Mesa, Arizona, offers bachelor’s degree programs in Emergency Management that are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association. Students can pursue one of two degree tracks: a Bachelor of Applied Science in Emergency Management or a Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies in Emergency Management. Both options require the following classes: Incident Management Systems; Emergency Planning (COOP); Homeland Security; Disaster Recovery in Emergency Management; Public Sector Communication Strategies; Public Budgeting and Finance; Ethics, Policy and Administration; and either an internship or a senior capstone project.

Northwest Missouri State University – Bachelor of Science and Minor in Emergency and Disaster Management

Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville, Missouri, offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency and Disaster Management that is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Every student in the program must complete both a field experience and an internship. Other required courses include Crisis Communication; Natural Disasters; Federalism & Intergovernmental Relations; Disaster Psychology; Introduction to Disaster Response and Recovery; Principles of Humanitarian Relief; and Homeland Security and Defense. A minor in Emergency and Disaster Management is also available for students who major in other fields.

Notre Dame College of Ohio – BA in EM and Policy Studies

Notre Dame College of Ohio in South Euclid, Ohio, offers a Bachelor of Arts in Emergency Management and Policy Studies that is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The on-campus program requires four years of full-time study to complete and culminates in a mandatory internship that gives students a chance to gain real world work experience in the field. Among the core courses for the major are: Principles of Emergency Management; State and Local Government; Earth Science with a Lab; Disaster Relief and Recovery; Planning, Risk Analysis and Threat Assessment; Public Administration Theory and Concepts; Introduction to Social Science Research; Terrorism; Technology, Social Media and Emergency Management Services; Politics of Homeland Security; Crisis Leadership; and Senior Research Seminar.

Ohio Christian University – Bachelor of Arts in Emergency Management and Business Program

Ohio Christian University in Circleville, Ohio, offers a Bachelor of Arts in Emergency Management that is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Every student in the program must take the following classes: Introduction to Emergency and Disaster Management; Preparedness and Response; Recovery and Mitigation; Trauma Healing & Compassion Fatigue; Exercise Planning, Design, and Evaluation; Managing Emergency Response Operations; Grant Writing and Organizational Development; Disaster Management Business Continuity and Crisis Management; Social Issues in Emergency and Disaster Management; Terrorism in Emergency Management; Politics and Policy in Emergency Management; International Development; and Hazardous Materials Response. In addition, students participate in an internship and two field experiences prior to graduation.

Ohio Christian University – Bachelor of Arts in Emergency Management and Business Program (Double Major)

Ohio Christian University in Circleville, Ohio, offers a double major of Bachelor of Arts in Emergency Management and Business that is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The program includes 30 hours of coursework in emergency management and 30 hours of coursework plus 42 hours of general education and 18 hours of religious studies education. Students are required to complete an emergency management internship prior to graduation. Among the mandatory classes for the double major are; Business Continuity & Crisis Management; Exercise Planning, Design, and Evaluation; Hazardous Materials Response; Introduction to Emergency & Disaster Management; Managing Emergency Response Operations; Preparedness and Response; Recovery and Mitigation; and Social Issues in Emergency & Disaster Management.

Pacific Union College – Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management

Pacific Union College in Angwin, California, offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management that is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. The program can be taken on its own or along with a pre-professional program such as pre-law or pre-medicine. All students have a chance to perform for-credit volunteer work with the Angwin Community Ambulance and the Angwin Fire Department. Students must complete a capstone project and participate in a health practicum prior to graduation.

Pennsylvania College of Technology – Bachelor of Science in EM Technology

Pennsylvania College of Technology in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management Technology that is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Every student in the program must take the following classes: Introduction to Emergency Management; History and Evolution of Emergency Management; Incident Command System Operations; Emergencies, Disasters, and Catastrophes; Disaster Preparation and Planning; Crisis Communication; Disaster Recovery; Spatial Analysis in Emergency Management; Social/Psychological Foundations of Emergency Management; Technological Elements of Emergency Management; Emergency Management Internship; Emergency Introduction to Healthcare System Preparedness; and Contemporary Issues in Emergency Management. A senior capstone project and directed electives are also required.

Pierce College – BAS in HS EM

Pierce College in Lakewood, Washington, offers a Bachelor of Applied Science in Homeland Security Emergency Management that is accredited by the Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges and the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges. This intensive program requires all of the following classes: Introduction to Homeland Security Emergency Management; Basic Incident Command System/National Incident Management System; All Hazards Emergency Planning; Technology in Emergency Management; Public Information Officer; Emergency Response Awareness to Terrorism; Public Administration; Homeland Security Emergency Management Special Topics; Emergency Operations Center; Exercise Design and Evaluation; Developing and Managing Volunteer Resources; Disaster Recovery and Response; Homeland Security Emergency Management Work-Based Learning; Homeland Security Law and Ethics; Project Management I: Planning; Project Management II: Managing; Risk Assessment for Homeland Security Emergency Management; Effective Organizational Communication and Public Speaking; External Affairs for Emergency Management; Leadership in Homeland Security Emergency Management; Systems Thinking and Individual Leadership; Continuity Planning for Business and Government; Risk Reduction for Homeland Security Emergency Management; Ethics and Diversity in Homeland Security Emergency Management; Technology and Cybersecurity in Homeland Security Emergency Management; Legal Issues in Homeland Security Emergency Management; Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for Homeland Security Emergency Management; Professional Development Seminar; Workbased Learning for Homeland Security Emergency Management; and Research Methods in Homeland Security Emergency Management. Students must also complete a Senior Capstone project.

Pikes Peak Community College – Bachelor of Applied Science: Emergency Service Administration

Pikes Peak Community College in Colorado Springs, Colorado, offers a Bachelor of Applied Science Emergency Service Administration that is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. To enroll in the program, students must hold an associate degree in criminal justice, emergency management and planning, emergency medical services, fire science technology, fire science wildland or public security management. Students with bachelor’s degrees in other fields may be admitted to the program if they have related work experience. All students are required to complete a senior capstone project and the following classes: Leadership for Emergency Executives; Crisis Communication & Public Relations; Emergency Public Information & Media Training; Elements of Emergency Service Administration; Designing Safer Communities: Pre-incident Planning & Risk Analysis; Public Policy & Practical Applications in Emergency Services; Budget & Planning Fundamentals for Emergency Administrators; Personnel Management in Emergency Service Agencies; Public Health in Complex Emergencies; Terrorism Threat & Risk Analysis; Tactical Planning, Response & Recovery; and Research & Design for Emergency Administration.

Post University – Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management and Homeland Security

Post University in Waterbury, Connecticut, offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management and Homeland Security that is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. Required courses for the major include: Introduction to Emergency Management and Homeland Security; Risk & Vulnerability Assessment; Public Health Emergency Preparedness & Response; Crisis Communication and Social Media; Disaster Planning & Preparedness; Emergency Response & Incident Management; History of Terrorism & Homeland Security in the United States; Response to Weapons of Mass Destruction; and Crisis Decision-Making.

Purdue University Global – BS in Fire and EM

Purdue University Global in Chicago, Illinois, offers a Bachelor of Science in Fire and Emergency management that is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The degree program culminates in a capstone project in fire science. Required courses for the major include: Introduction to Fire and Emergency Services; Fire Prevention Practices; Introduction to Emergency Management; Principles of Emergency Services; Ethics for the Fire and Emergency Services; Legal Aspects of Emergency Services; Preparedness and Planning for Emergency Management; Emergency Management Response; Crisis Management in Terrorist Attacks and Disasters; Community Risk Reduction for Fire and Emergency Services; Recovery Practices in Emergency Management; Fire Prevention Organization and Management; Political, Ethical, and Legal Foundations of Emergency Services; Leadership and Management; Personnel Management for Fire and Emergency Services; Mitigation and Risk Assessment in Emergency Management; and Disaster Policy in Emergency Management.

Saint Louis University – Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management

Saint Louis University, School for Professional Studies in St. Louis, Missouri, offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management that is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Students are required to complete a number of general education classes plus 15 credit hours of training from the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). In addition, the following classes are necessary for the degree: Fundamentals of Emergency Management; Managing Natural, Man-Made and Technological Disasters; Healthcare Coordination in High-Impact Emergencies; Threat and Risk Assessment; Emergency Management Fundamentals Practicum; Business Continuity and Impact Analysis; Integrated Risk Planning, Strategy and Compliance; Computer Modeling for Emergency Planning and Management; Homeland Security Intermediate Practicum; Resilience, Recovery and Contingency; Financial & Regulatory Considerations in Risk Planning; Emergency Management in Practice; Disaster Exercise Design and Evaluation; and Emergency Management Homeland Security Technologies.

Savannah State University – Homeland Security and Emergency Management Bachelor of Arts Degree

Savannah State University in Savannah, Georgia, offers a Bachelor of Arts in Homeland Security and Emergency Management that is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. All students complete 47 credit hours of general education coursework and 36 hours of core classes that include Law and Ethics in HSEM; Emergency Planning, Mitigation & Incident Management; Social Diversity Issues in HSEM; Risk and Vulnerability Assessment; Terrorism in the Modern World; and Effective HSEM Communication and Leadership. In addition, students must take two foreign language courses, participate in an internship and complete a capstone senior project. A 15 credit-hour minor is also offered for students who are majoring in other fields.

Southwestern College – Bachelor of Science Degree in Security Management

Southwestern College in Wichita, Kansas, offers a Bachelor of Science in Security Management that is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The following courses are required for the major: Introduction to Security; Physical Security; Information Security; Homeland Security Fundamentals; Loss Prevention and Crime Prevention; Legal Aspects of Security; Terrorism‐Motivations and Adversaries; and Emergency Planning. Electives are offered at the college’s Naval Postgraduate School. Prior to graduation, all students must complete a senior capstone project.

SUNY Canton – Bachelor of Technology in Emergency and Disaster Management

State University of New York, Canton College of Technology in Canton, New York, offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management that is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The program provides students with the unique opportunity to gain real world experience working with Virtual Emergency Operations Center and Graphical Information System. An internship and senior project are other features of the program. Among the required classes for the degree are: Fundamentals of Emergency and Disaster Management; Risk & Hazard Impact Studies; Disaster Management and Preparedness; Communities: Preparedness & Defense; Legal Issues in Emergency and Disaster Management; Incident Command: System Coordination & Assessment; Simulated Disaster Training; and Disaster Simulation.

Texas Southern University – Bachelor of Science Degree in Emergency Management and Homeland Security (EHMS)

Texas Southern University in Houston, Texas, offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management and Homeland Security that is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Students in the program have a chance to gain real world work experience through a mandatory internship. The major requires 30 hours of coursework that includes: Introduction to Emergency Management; Natural Hazards and Emergency Management; Technological Hazards and Emergency Management; Introduction to Homeland Security; Principles & Practices of Hazard Mitigation; Terrorism and Homeland Security; Emergency Recovery, Response, Preparedness and Planning; and Domestic and Global Terrorism.

Truckee Meadows Community College – Bachelor of Applied Science in Emergency Management and Homeland Security EM

Truckee Meadows Community College in Reno, Nevada, offers a Bachelor of Applied Science in Emergency Management and Homeland Security that is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. In order to qualify for entry into the degree program, students must hold an associate degree and take prerequisite online classes offered by the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). To earn the degree, students must complete an internship, a capstone project and the following classes: Principles, Practice, Philosophy and Doctrine of Emergency Mgmt.; Principles and Practices of Mitigation & Recovery; Hazard Risk Management: Vulnerability and Risk; Advanced ICS-EOC Interface; Social Dimensions, Life Cycle and Ethics of Disaster; Disaster Fiscal Management; Organizational Crisis Continuity Management; Exercise Design and Management; International Terrorism & Cyber Terrorism; Homeland Security: Preparedness, Prevention, Deterrence & EM; Terrorism and Homeland Security in the U.S.; Critical Thinking & Strategic Intelligence for Homeland Security; Critical Infrastructure; and Resource Protection. Elective courses are also required.

Union Institute and University – BS in Emergency Services Management

Union Institute and University in Cincinnati, Ohio, offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Services Management that is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. In addition to the university’s general education requirements, students must take the following classes: Critical Incident Management and Response; Fiscal Management for Emergency Services Administrations; Emergency Services Administration; Legal, Economic, and Ethical Issues in Emergency Services; and Homeland Security.

University at Albany – Major in Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity

The University at Albany, College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity in Albany, New York, offers a Major in Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity that is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The program includes three experiential learning experiences: a research seminar, an internship and a senior capstone project. In addition, students take the following courses: Intro to Emergency Preparedness; Homeland Security and Cybersecurity; Critical Inquiry and Communication in EHC; Cybersecurity; Homeland Security; Emergency Preparedness; and Leadership and Ethics in EHC. Students then select general education requirements and electives from an approved list.

University of Akron – Bachelor of Science Degree in Emergency Management

The University of Akron in Akron, Ohio, offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management and Homeland Security that is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Every student in the program completes an internship and a capstone project plus these CORE classes: Introduction to Disasters, Hazards, and Risk; Principles of Emergency Management; Disaster Research Methods; Disaster Mitigation; Disaster Recovery; Hazard Science and Management; Crisis Leadership; Disaster Vulnerability; and Emergency Management. In addition, students select electives from the following list: Disasters in Film and Media; Introduction to Terrorism; Disaster Management Technology; Hazardous Weather Observations; Private Sector Disaster Applications; Contemporary Issues in Emergency Management and Homeland Security; Cyber Issues in Emergency Management and Homeland Security; Current Topics in Emergency Management; and Homeland Security.

University of Alaska, Fairbanks – Bachelor of Emergency Management and Homeland Security

The University of Alaska, Fairbanks in Fairbanks, Alaska, offers a Bachelor of Security and Emergency Management that is accredited by the Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges, Commission on Colleges and Universities. Every student in the program completes the following classes: Principles of Emergency Management and Homeland Security; Emergency Planning and Preparedness; Disaster Response Operations and Management; All Hazards Risk Analysis; Business Continuity and Crisis Management; and Leadership in Dangerous Contexts. Students then take two courses in an area of specialization. Concentration options include Homeland Security, Emergency Management, Fire Administration, Cybersecurity and Information Technology Management, Emergency Medical and Public Health Management, and Public Safety Management.

University of Central Missouri – Bachelor of Science Degree in Crisis and Disaster Management

The University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg, Missouri, offers a Bachelor of Science in Crisis and Disaster Management that is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. With this program, students have the option to complete all of their coursework online or on campus. A hybrid program with online and in-person classes is also available. No matter which option students choose, the program culminates in a practicum field placement that provides real world work experience. Thirty credits of study are necessary for the major plus 90 credits of general education coursework.

University of Central Florida – BA/BS in Emergency Management

The University of Central Florida in Orlando, Florida, offers both a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management. Both programs are accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. For both degrees, a cooperative education experience or internship is required. Both programs also include the following core courses: Professional Administrative Writing in the Public Sector; Fiscal Management; Emergency Management and Homeland Security; Disaster Response and Recovery; Information Systems for Public Managers and Planners; Survey Research in Public Administration; Intergovernmental Administration; and Community Resilience and Sustainability.

University of Findlay – Bachelor of Science in Environmental, Safety and Occupational Health Management

The University of Findlay in Findlay, Ohio, offers a Bachelor of Science in Environmental, Safety and Occupational Health Management that is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Areas of focus for the degree program include Leadership; Ethics; Cultural Awareness; Decision Making; Interpersonal Skills; Critical Thinking and analysis; and Team building and Team Work. Students are required to participate in an Experiential learning experience. Internships, field placements and research projects can fulfill this requirement.

University of Nebraska at Omaha – Minor in Emergency Management

The University of Nebraska at Omaha in Omaha, Nebraska, offers a Minor in Emergency Management that is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. To qualify for this program, students must be working toward a bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Criminology and Criminal Justice or Information Management or Engineering Degree Fields such as Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or Building and Construction Engineering at the university. The minor includes 18 credit hours of coursework and includes the following classes: Introduction to Emergency Management; Emergency Management Strategies and Communications: NIMS; Political and Legal Foundations; Preparedness Planning and Risk Mitigation; Intra and Non-Governmental Organizations and Cooperation; and Disaster Response and Recovery.

University of Nebraska, Omaha – BS in EM

The University of Nebraska at Omaha in Omaha, Nebraska, offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management that is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. All students in the program participate in an internship and take the following classes: Introduction to Emergency Management; Emergency Management Strategies and Communications: National Incident; Political and Legal Foundations in Emergency Services; Introduction to Public Administration; Applied Statistics and Data Processing in the Public Sector; Preparedness Planning and Risk Mitigation; Agency Collaboration During Disasters; and Disaster Response and Recovery. In addition, students take elective courses related to an area of concentration. Potential areas of specialization include: Aviation Administration; Criminology and Criminal Justice; Fire Service Management; Geospatial Science; Gerontology; Information Technology and Communication; Intelligence and Security; Logistics Management; Natural Disasters; Nonprofit Management; Planning and Preparing for Urban Hazards; Private Sector Management; Public Administration and Management; Public Health; Tribal Management and Emergency Services; and Unmanned Aircraft Systems.

University of North Texas – Bachelor of Science Degree in Emergency Management

The University of North Texas in Denton, Texas, offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management that is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Every student in the program is responsible for completing a senior capstone project. An internship is also required; however, students who have work experience in emergency management are exempt from this requirement. Core courses for the program include: Introduction to Emergency Management; Practical Methods in Emergency Management; Disaster Mitigation and Preparedness; Disaster Response and Recovery; EOC Design and Operations; and Social Vulnerability.

University of North Texas – BS in Emergency Admin and Planning

University of North Texas in Denton, Texas, offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Administration and Planning that is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The program offers students a number of unique opportunities, including Emergency Operations Center lab work, participation in International Association of Emergency Managers events, study abroad placements and local, national and international internships. Required coursework includes a senior capstone and the following classes: Introduction to Emergency Management; Practical Methods in Emergency Management; Disaster Mitigation and Preparedness; Disaster Response and Recovery; Design and Operations; and Social Vulnerability.

Utah Valley University – BS in Emergency Services Administration – Emergency Management

Utah Valley University in Provo, Utah, offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Services Administration that is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Every student in the program is required to pass the following classes: Introduction to Homeland Security; Health and Safety Program Management; Managing Emergency Medical Services; Customer and Public Relations for the Emergency Services; Public Program Administration; Master Planning for Public Emergency Services; Analytical Research Approaches to Public Emergency Services; Management, Politics, and Regulations for the Emergency Services; Principles of Disaster and Emergency Management; Public Administration and Emergency Management; Financial Managerial and Cost Accounting Concepts; and Grant and Proposal Writing. A capstone project is also necessary for graduation.

Upper Iowa University – Bachelor of Science in Emergency & Disaster Management

Upper Iowa University in Fayette, Iowa, offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Services Administration Emergency Management that is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The program concludes with a self-designed senior research program. For graduation, students must take all of the following classes: US Government; Management Principles; State & Local Government; Principles of Emergency Management; Political & Policy Basis of EM; Emergency Preparedness & Planning; Disaster Response & Recovery; Supervision; Urban Management; Research Methods; Integrated Emergency Management; Psychology of Disaster; Principles & Practice of Hazards Mitigation; Cases in Public Administration or Management Cases; Public Budgeting Process; Administrative Law; and Business & Industrial Crisis Management.

Waldorf University – BAS in Emergency Management with Optional Concentrations in Fire Science or Homeland Security

Waldorf University in Forest City, Iowa, offers a Bachelor of Applied Science in Homeland Security that is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Every student takes courses in Introduction to Terrorism; American Homeland Security; Terrorism Response Operations; Weapons of Mass Destruction; Ethical and Legal Issues in Homeland Security; Disaster Planning and Management; Preparedness and Response Partners; and Critical Infrastructure Protection. A senior capstone in Life, Meaning, and Vocation is also required. Students have the opportunity to choose criminal justice or emergency management concentrations for their elective coursework.

Waldorf University – BA in Emergency Management with Optional Concentrations in Fire Science or Homeland Security

Waldorf University in Forest City, Iowa, offers a Bachelor of Arts in Emergency Management that is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Every student in the program takes the following core classes: Introduction to Emergency Management; Disaster Mitigation and Preparedness; Disaster Response and Recovery; Special Operations; Terrorism in Emergency Management; Interagency Disaster Management; Incident Command in Emergency and Disaster Management; Socio-Psychological Nature of Emergency Management; and Community Risk Reduction for the Fire and Emergency Services. A capstone senior project is also required. For elective coursework, students choose a focus of either Fire Science or Homeland Security.

Western Carolina University – Online Bachelor of Science Degree in Emergency Management

Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, North Carolina, offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency and Disaster Management that is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The program is offered entirely online and admits new students for enrollment in either January or August. For the degree students take 42 credit hours of liberal arts studies plus the following core courses: Introduction to Emergency Management; Research Methods; Social Dimensions of Disaster; Emergency Planning; Risk Assessment & Vulnerability Analysis; Principles of Hazard Mitigation; Political & Policy Basis for Emergency Management; Resource Management; Homeland Security; Disaster Research Methods; Exercise Design & Evaluation; Legal Issues in Emergency Management; Terrorism; Case Studies in Emergency Management; Crisis Communication/Public Relations; State & Local Government; and Public Administration. A senior research project is also required.

Western Illinois University-Bachelor of Science Degree in Emergency Management

Western Illinois University in Macomb, Illinois, offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management that is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. To qualify for the degree, students must complete 43 hours of general education, General Chemistry I, Introduction to Computers I, Personal Health Promotion, Introduction to Weather and Climate, 12 hours of directed electives, an approved minor and six hours of open electives. A total of 33 credit hours of core courses are required as well. These classes include Hazards and Disasters in Emergency Management; Principles of Emergency Management; Dimensions of Disaster; Emergency Preparedness and Response; Legal Aspects of Emergency Management; Hazard Mitigation and Disaster Recovery; Weapons of Mass Destruction in Health Science; and Emergency and Research Methods in Health Sciences. The program culminates in an internship placement.

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