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Online Emergency Management Degrees: Reviewing Top Programs

Disasters strike without warning, and communities rely on trained professionals to respond. A career in emergency management can offer you the chance to make a real impact while providing job security, leadership opportunities, and competitive salaries. But with so many degree options available, how do you choose the right one? Let STEPS walk you through everything from degree options and funding opportunities to career and salary expectations after graduation.

Author: Jolissa Skow
Editor: Grace Butler
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Taking Your First Steps

Before you research programs and fill out applications, it’s important to ask yourself a few questions. Specifically, questions to help you figure out if you’re ready to enroll in an online emergency management degree program. Some answers may be easy, others no so much. Here are four such questions to help you take your first steps:

Do I have the skills and determination to work in emergency management?

Determining if emergency management fits your skills and passions is important, as the field requires quick thinking, resilience, and a strong commitment to public safety. Feeling motivated by these responsibilities will help you remain dedicated throughout your studies and beyond. Assessing your personal alignment with these requirements early ensures you choose a career path that truly suits your strengths and interests.

What level of education do I need to work in emergency management?

Deciding on the appropriate degree level matters because different roles have varying educational requirements. Some emergency management positions need only certificates or bachelor’s degrees, while advanced roles might require a master’s degree. Matching your chosen degree to your desired career ensures you spend your time and money effectively, preparing exactly for what your future job demands.

Can I afford an online emergency management degree?

Understanding the financial aspects of your chosen online program is crucial. Take into account all expenses, including tuition, fees, books, and technology costs. Investigating financial aid and scholarships can alleviate future financial strain. There are even online student scholarships available.

If you plan on focusing on public health emergencies, exploring public health scholarships is worthwhile. Those specializing in disaster preparedness can also find specific emergency management scholarships.

Does this online emergency management degree fit my schedule?

Selecting a program that fits your lifestyle and schedule is essential, especially for busy working adults. Online programs vary in structure; some provide fully asynchronous, self-paced learning, while others have scheduled sessions or group activities.

If you prefer a combination of online and face-to-face learning, understanding how hybrid college classes work can help you decide. Finding a format that aligns with your family, work, and personal responsibilities ensures you stay balanced and productive, preventing stress and burnout.

Is this emergency management program reputable and career-focused?

Attending an accredited, well-respected school is crucial because it directly impacts job prospects and career advancement. Programs with good reputations offer career services such as internships, mentorship, and networking opportunities. These supports significantly enhance your employability after graduation, helping you smoothly transition from education into your professional emergency management career.

Emergency Management Degrees by Level

Whether you’re just beginning your education or have a degree or two under your belt, there are numerous online emergency management degree types you can choose from. The levels of education in this field can range from undergraduate certificates that can be earned within a few months to advanced doctoral degrees for dedicated researchers and professionals.

Whatever degree type you choose, your education will equip you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in emergency management and respond to emergencies in your community. Below is an overview of the online programs available today.

Undergraduate Certificates

Online emergency management certificate programs are a fast way for professionals to learn the specific skills they need to work in the field. They are also commonly earned as a supplementary credential for those with an associate or bachelor’s degree in a related field to help bolster their expertise without dedicating the time and money to a full degree.

Depending on their education and career background, certificate holders may be eligible for cybersecurity, emergency management, and law enforcement jobs, and may be employed by government agencies or private companies. Undergraduate certificate programs in emergency management may be offered online through two- or four-year colleges.

STEPS Pick: Best Online Undergraduate Certificate Program

University of Central Missouri (UCM): Emergency Management Certificate

Launched in 2013, UCM’s emergency management certificate offers flexible online coursework, making it easy for busy professionals to boost their credentials. This program stands out by integrating FEMA certifications into classes, giving graduates practical qualifications that employers recognize. UCM is also highly rated nationally, so students gain industry-relevant knowledge from trusted experts.

CostCreditsModeAccreditation
$285/credit12100% OnlineHLC

Associate Degrees

An online associate degree in emergency management, which may be offered fully or partially online, is designed for those who want to land an entry-level job in the field, as well as emergency responders who want to move up in their careers. In addition, some professionals use these degrees as an affordable foundation for higher-level education programs, as course credits can often be transferred to other institutions.

Programs at this level can lead to an Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Applied Science (AAS), or Associate of Science (AS) degree, depending on the focus of the curriculum, and are generally found at two-year colleges.

STEPS Pick: Best Online Associate Degree Program

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (Worldwide Campus): Associate of Science in Emergency Management

Embry-Riddle’s online AS in emergency management program provides practical, hands-on training in emergency preparedness. The university is well-known for aviation and safety expertise, applying this knowledge to emergency management situations. You’ll graduate ready to handle real-world emergencies, making you a strong candidate for jobs across Florida’s thriving emergency services sector.

CostCreditsModeAccreditation
$522/credit60 Credits100% OnlineSACSCOC

Bachelor’s Degrees

An online bachelor’s degree in emergency management is ideal for students who are new to the field, as well as those who have already earned an emergency management associate degree. As a result, people may take two to four years to complete these programs, depending on their prior education.

Online bachelor’s degrees in emergency management are typically available as Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Science (BS), or Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degrees. They may be offered in a fully online or hybrid program, with flexible study options available for students who are already working as professionals in the field.

STEPS Pick: Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Program

Thomas Jefferson University: Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management

This fully online, accelerated bachelor’s program is perfect for working adults, offering flexible 8-week classes that fit your busy life. Courses feature built-in FEMA certifications, providing you with additional professional credentials as you study. The practical, career-focused curriculum ensures you’re job-ready in Florida’s growing emergency management field or in regions beyond.

CostCreditsModeAccreditation
$674/credit120 Credits100% OnlineMSCHE

Graduate Certificate Programs

Online graduate certificates, many of which are offered completely online, are for those who have experience in the emergency management field and want to advance their skills and knowledge without devoting the time to an additional degree program. Since these certificates are designed for students who already have at least a bachelor’s degree, the material covered in the curriculum provides an advanced understanding of emergency management principles.

Graduate certificate programs are mainly offered by four-year colleges and universities. They tend to be focused on a specific subspecialty within the emergency management field, allowing you to deepen your understanding of a subject and acquire additional credentials.

STEPS Pick: Best Online Graduate Certificate Program

University of Colorado (CU) Denver — Graduate Certificate in Emergency Management & Homeland Security

​This graduate certificate is offered through CU Denver’s highly regarded School of Public Affairs, infusing an interdisciplinary, policy-focused approach. The program emphasizes high-level critical thinking, adaptability, and policy analysis in emergency management​. The curriculum is designed for both aspiring and current practitioners and is tightly integrated with the university’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) and Master of Criminal Justice programs.

CostCreditsModeAccreditation
$736/credit12OnlineHLC

Master’s Degrees

An online master’s in emergency management gives students a broad base of practical knowledge and skills to succeed in advanced roles within the emergency management field. Skills acquired in the program can include organization, administration, communication, and more.

Students in emergency management master’s programs learn how to effectively manage teams to prepare for and respond to emergency and disaster events of all types and sizes. Additionally, students are often able to tailor their academic work to focus on specific emergency management subfields. Many master’s programs offer specialization tracks such as cybersecurity, criminal justice, public health, environmental hazards, fire administration, and homeland security.

STEPS Pick: Best Online Master’s Degree Program

Arizona State University (ASU) — Master of Arts in Emergency Management & Homeland Security

ASU’s online Master of Arts in Emergency Management is a highly ranked program known for its innovation and comprehensive curriculum. A standout feature is the ability to tailor the degree through five available concentration areas: biosecurity and threat management, community resilience, cybersecurity policy and management, emergency management, or homeland security​. The program is designed to be completed in as little as one year.

CostCreditsModeAccreditation
$702.44/credit33100% OnlineHLC

Doctoral Degrees

Online doctoral degrees in emergency management are designed for seasoned professionals who want to take managerial roles in the industry, as well as conduct research and become college instructors who train the next generation of emergency management workers.

Offered in fully online and hybrid formats, emergency management doctorates are available at many accredited universities. They can come in various degree types, including a Doctor of Science (DSc) in Emergency Management, a PhD in Crisis, Emergency, and Risk Management, a PhD in Disaster Science and Management, and a PhD in Emergency Management. Generally speaking, a PhD will be more research-focused, while a doctorate may focus more on practice in the field.

STEPS Pick: Best Online Doctoral Degree Program

Jacksonville State University (JSU) — Doctor of Science in Emergency Management

JSU’s DSc in Emergency Management is one of the first doctoral programs in the nation dedicated to emergency management and remains a leader in the field. The program is designed to accommodate working professionals through online coursework, making it accessible to students nationwide.​

This program is flexible in pacing (it can be done in as few as three-five years, or up to 10 years max to finish all requirements)​. Many graduates of JSU’s DSc have gone on to become professors, high-ranking emergency managers, and consultants.

CostCreditsModeAccreditation
$410/credit60 credits100% OnlineSACSCOC

The Cost of a Degree in Emergency Management

Depending on several factors, online emergency management can vary widely in price. Some of the largest deciding factors are the degree level and school type. For instance, an undergraduate certificate can be as low as $285 per credit (around $4,275 total for 15 credits), as seen at the University of Central Missouri. Associate degrees, like Embry-Riddle’s $29,781 program, hover near $500 per credit, while bachelor’s programs may exceed $79,000 in total tuition.

Moving beyond the undergraduate level, graduate certificates can cost around $736 per credit (about $8,832 total at CU Denver), and master’s programs, such as Arizona State University’s, reach roughly $23,000 for all required credits. Doctoral degrees, like Jacksonville State University’s, can total around $30,000.

Fully online programs typically have fewer campus-based fees, which can lower overall costs compared to hybrid or on-campus formats. Public universities might also offer in-state tuition benefits, whereas private institutions generally charge higher rates.

Transferring credits from a prior degree program can save you both time and expenses. As you compare options, consider each program’s accreditation, total credit requirements, and available financial aid to ensure you find the right fit for both your budget and career goals.

Emergency Management Student FAQs

What does the job market look like for emergency management graduates?

The good news is, the emergency management job market remains strong and steady. Government agencies, hospitals, nonprofits, and even private businesses regularly seek qualified professionals. Employment in emergency services rose dramatically — by 152% between 1990 and 2017 — and this upward trend continues.

Many current emergency management directors are approaching retirement, opening even more doors for graduates. With an online degree from a reputable program, you’ll gain the competitive edge and credentials needed to enter this job market.

What challenges will I face in an online emergency management program and how can I overcome them?

Balancing flexibility with discipline can be tough in online programs, especially without structured class schedules. Staying organized and managing time proactively is key. Creating a consistent study routine and a distraction-free workspace will help keep your studies on track.

Feeling isolated might also be a hurdle in taking an online program, but participating actively in online discussions, forums, and virtual group projects can significantly reduce this. You might even be able to locate a study buddy from your program, with whom you can arrange to meet at in-person study sessions. If tech or course content becomes challenging, promptly reaching out to instructors and accessing resources, like this student guide to online learning, can ease your experience.

Can I use employer tuition assistance to help pay for an online emergency management degree?

Employer tuition assistance can absolutely reduce your education costs. Many companies offer up to tax-free financial assistance, provided your studies are job-related and you maintain good grades.

If you are a working professional and are considering applying for an online emergency management degree, you should consider contacting your employer and discussing your funding options. This is also an important step for ensuring that your work schedule does not clash with your study obligations and classes.

Not everyone will be qualified for tuition assistance, however. Alongside employer benefits, accredited online programs qualify for federal student aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), including grants, loans, and scholarships.

Associations like the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM) offer scholarships specifically for emergency management students. Universities like Jacksonville State University even provide tuition discounts for first responders and public safety professionals, significantly easing your financial load.

How can I network and gain professional development while studying online for an emergency management degree?

Building connections during your online studies is entirely achievable. Consider joining professional organizations such as IAEM, which offers student memberships, mentorship opportunities, and networking events. Participating in webinars, virtual conferences, and FEMA online certifications helps expand your industry knowledge and professional contacts.

Finding Your Emergency Management Career

Graduates of emergency management programs have numerous potential career paths across various sectors. You can build your career in government, healthcare, private business, humanitarian relief, or homeland security.

Each area offers meaningful roles, in which your skills in planning, leadership, and crisis response can significantly benefit communities. Here’s a closer look at these exciting fields.

Government Emergency Management

Government emergency management professionals play a critical role during disasters by preparing, coordinating, and executing response strategies. They create comprehensive emergency plans, mobilize resources efficiently, and communicate clearly to guide communities through crises.

Working closely with local officials, first responders, and community leaders, they help ensure communities quickly recover and rebuild. Professionals in this area work at local, state, and federal levels, continuously refining their strategies based on past experiences. They may also be involved in community outreach programs and organizing planned drills.

Key career paths include:

  • Emergency Management Director
  • Emergency Management Specialist/Coordinator
  • Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Program Manager
  • Hazard Mitigation Officer
  • Public Safety Emergency Preparedness Planner

Healthcare & Public Health Emergency Management

Emergency management healthcare and public health emergency management professionals protect communities by preparing for and responding effectively to health-related crises, such as pandemics, natural disasters, or mass casualty events. They ensure hospitals and public health organizations can manage resources, rapidly deploy medical responses, and maintain public health standards.

These roles often involve collaboration with healthcare providers and government agencies to coordinate timely interventions. It can be an excellent opportunity for emergency management professionals who would like to work in the healthcare sector.

Careers in this field include:

  • Hospital Emergency Preparedness Administrator
  • Public Health Emergency Preparedness Coordinator
  • Infection Control Officer
  • Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Director/Coordinator
  • Disaster Health Services Manager

Private Sector & Business Continuity

Emergency management in the private sector focuses on maintaining business continuity during emergencies, such as natural disasters or cyber threats. Professionals identify potential risks, develop strategic continuity plans, and lead organizations through crises to minimize financial losses and disruptions.

The proactive planning of emergency management professionals in the private sector ensures that businesses quickly return to normal operations following disasters, safeguarding jobs and providing economic stability to local communities.

Relevant career roles include:

  • Business Continuity Planner/Manager
  • Disaster Recovery Specialist (Corporate)
  • Corporate Emergency Response Coordinator
  • Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Manager
  • Risk Management Analyst (Business Continuity)

Nonprofit & Humanitarian Relief

Professionals working in nonprofit and humanitarian emergency management directly support affected communities during crises. They coordinate disaster relief efforts, manage shelters, and distribute essential aid.

The roles of nonprofit and humanitarian professionals require compassion, resilience, and logistical expertise to ensure timely and effective delivery of aid, especially under challenging conditions. Their efforts often provide immediate relief and lasting hope to the communities they serve. This can be a great option for those wanting a career that will have a direct impact on the lives of others.

Career opportunities include:

  • Disaster Program Manager
  • Humanitarian Aid Project Manager
  • Emergency Shelter Operations Director
  • Volunteer Coordinator
  • Logistics and Supply Chain Specialist

Homeland Security & Public Safety

Homeland security and public safety roles safeguard national security by preparing for and responding to threats like terrorism, cyberattacks, and large-scale emergencies. These professionals analyze threats, manage intelligence resources, secure critical infrastructure, and coordinate multi-agency responses.

Collaboration across agencies and disciplines is a crucial factor of working in this field, in order to deliver rapid, effective responses that keep communities safe. Those interested in pursuing this career path may also consider a degree in homeland security to get a foot in the door.

Key positions include:

  • Homeland Security Agent/Officer
  • Border Patrol or Customs Enforcement Agent
  • Intelligence Analyst
  • Cybersecurity Specialist
  • Emergency Management Specialist

FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:

Looking for details that go into more detail about specific types of programs? Our STEPS guides dig deeper, covering everything from entry-level, certificate programs to advanced, doctoral and PhD degrees. Tap into these resources for the in-depth information you need to confidently choose, pursue, and excel in an online emergency management program.

Emergency Management Degree Guides

Student Guides

Salary and Career Details

Content not available.

Area ↕ Occupation ↕ 10th Percentile ↕ 90th Percentile ↕ Median ↕
U.S. Emergency Management Directors $50,340 $151,560 $83,960
U.S. Occupational Health and Safety Specialists $49,550 $128,040 $81,140
U.S. Emergency Medical Technicians $29,910 $59,390 $38,930
U.S. Fire Inspectors and Investigators $46,360 $137,220 $74,160

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.

Area ↕ Occupation ↕ Curr. Jobs ↕ Proj. Jobs ↕ New Jobs ↕ Growth % ↕
United States Emergency Management Directors 11,800 12,200 400 3.40%
United States Emergency Medical Technicians 170,700 180,000 9,300 5.40%
United States Fire Inspectors and Investigators 15,000 15,600 600 4.00%
United States Occupational Health and Safety Specialists 113,800 128,900 15,100 13.30%

Source: Projections Central

Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.

Making Your Decision

Now that you’ve explored the many career paths, program levels, and costs in emergency management, reflect on the two key questions: Is this degree right for you, and which school aligns with your goals? Think about your passion for public safety, your desire for leadership, and your readiness to adapt under pressure.

Next, compare program formats, accreditation, and tuition to find your perfect fit. By making a purposeful choice and investing in a reputable degree, you’ll step confidently into a field committed to safeguarding communities and shaping a safer future. Your answers will guide your next steps in this field.

STEPS Best: Online Emergency Management Degree Programs

To handle the responsibilities and challenges of their jobs, emergency management professionals need high-quality training. There are many online degree programs available that can provide this training in a convenient format. To help you narrow your choices, the following rankings showcase the best schools and emergency management programs available today.

Colleges were rated on key factors such as affordability, accreditation status, number of online programs offered, and availability of student support services. For more information on our selection process, you can review the “About the Rankings” section. Now, take a look to see which schools made our list and find the one that best meets your needs.

1

Jacksonville State University

Jacksonville, Alabama

Why We Selected Jacksonville State University:
The Doctor of Science in Emergency Management at Jacksonville State University is a 60-credit hour program for advanced professionals. It includes 42 credits of coursework in administration, policy, practice areas, and research methods, plus 18 credits dedicated to a dissertation. Admission requires a Master’s degree in a related field, a Statement of Purpose, resume, and transcripts. The program prepares students for roles in public service, education, and private sectors, offering career paths such as Emergency Management Director and Disaster Program Manager. It features a week-long on-campus seminar each year for the first three years.
Program Highlights
  • Accredited program taught by experienced staff in emergency management.
  • Convenient online courses suitable for working professionals without deadlines affecting work-life balance.
  • Specialized career tracks with faculty expertise in specific areas like risk communication and hazard mitigation.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$9,720
  • Average Grant Aid$4,765
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid98%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid99%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio19/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course68%
2

University of Alaska Fairbanks

Fairbanks, Alaska

Why We Selected University of Alaska Fairbanks:
The University of Alaska Fairbanks offers a Bachelor of Security and Emergency Management degree with concentrations in Fire Administration, Emergency Management, Homeland Security, Public Safety Administration, Cybersecurity, and Emergency Medical and Public Health Management. This 120-credit program combines emergency preparedness with business management training to prepare students for careers addressing terrorism and natural disasters. Tuition varies by course level, and students can apply relevant military or first responder experience toward degree requirements. The program is designed for careers in emergency services, and it is consistently ranked among the top nationally.
Program Highlights
  • The University of Alaska Fairbanks offers an online Bachelor of Security and Emergency Management program that features a unique combination of business and emergency preparedness training, providing graduates with a competitive edge in the job market.
  • Employers actively engage with the program, leading to nearly 100% employment for graduates either at graduation or prior, reflecting the program's strong industry connections.
  • Students benefit from waived application fees and the ability to apply military and first responder experience toward degree requirements, facilitating a smoother transition into the program.
School Details
  • AccreditationNWCCU
  • Average Tuition$7,296
  • Average Grant Aid$4,863
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid62%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid92%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio12/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course80%
3

Arkansas State University

Jonesboro, Arkansas

Why We Selected Arkansas State University:
The Bachelor of Science in Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management at Arkansas State University equips students with essential skills to lead communities through emergencies. The program requires 120 credit hours, including general education, major courses, and electives, with a focus on risk assessment and disaster planning. Admission typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, although specific GPA requirements could vary; however, a general minimum GPA of 2.0 is often applicable for many programs. Students should submit official transcripts and complete an online application. The program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) rather than the Council for the Accreditation of Emergency Management and Homeland Security Education, which is not explicitly stated as the accreditor for this program. Graduates can pursue roles such as Emergency Services Managers, Safety Specialists, or Disaster Recovery Managers in government agencies, nonprofits, or private sectors, with financial aid options available.
Program Highlights
  • Arkansas State University offers flexible online learning with accelerated coursework options.
  • The program emphasizes building communication skills tailored to diverse populations and contexts.
  • Arkansas State University's DPEM program is accredited by the Council for Emergency Management Education.
School Details
  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average Tuition$5,232
  • Average Grant Aid$6,509
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid93%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid100%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio14/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course69%
4

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice

New York, New York

Why We Selected CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice:
The Master of Science in Emergency Management at John Jay College of Criminal Justice prepares students for leadership roles in public, non-profit, and private organizations. The 36-credit program offers a General Track (comprehensive exam/certification) or Thesis Track (with permission), covering emerging technologies, legal frameworks, and disaster mitigation strategies. Aligned with the College’s public safety mission, career paths include emergency management, fire service leadership, and emergency medical administration. Hybrid format available. Consult Admissions for requirements and Financial Aid Office for funding details.
Program Highlights
  • John Jay College offers the Master's in Emergency Management fully online or in a hybrid format for flexibility.
  • The program includes specialized courses in emerging technologies, enhancing practical skills for emergency management professionals.
  • Students can elect to complete an Associate Emergency Manager (AEM) certification exam for career advancement.
School Details
  • AccreditationCUNY
  • Average Tuition$6,930
  • Average Grant Aid$1,056
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid92%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid95%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio18/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course90%
5

Eastern Kentucky University

Richmond, Kentucky

Why We Selected Eastern Kentucky University:
Eastern Kentucky University offers a Graduate Certificate in Emergency Management & Disaster Resilience. This program requires 12 credit hours, focusing on practical skill-building and real-world applications. Tuition is $649 per credit hour, with free textbooks available for all students. Admission requires a Bachelor’s degree, with no application fee. Career paths include leadership roles in emergency response and disaster resilience. The program provides a foundation for advancing in the field or as a stepping stone to further graduate studies, such as the Master of Science in Safety, Security & Emergency Management.
Program Highlights
  • Free books are provided for all students, enhancing their learning experience without additional financial burdens.
  • The program benefits from guidance by nationally recognized safety experts across the industry.
  • EKU offers a range of specialized certifications to enhance job prospects in safety and security fields.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$9,452
  • Average Grant Aid$6,669
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid82%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid99%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course72%
6

University of Maine at Augusta

Augusta, Maine

Why We Selected University of Maine at Augusta:
The University of Maine at Augusta offers a Master of Science and Graduate Certificate in Trauma-Informed Emergency Management. The Master’s program requires 30 credits, while the certificate requires 16 credits. The curriculum integrates a trauma-informed perspective with the Emergency Management Cycle, covering preparedness, resilience, mitigation, adaptation, response, and recovery. Concentrations include Community Resilience, Data Analytics, Emergency Management and Preparedness, and Mental Health. Students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 and achieve a B- or better in each course. The program prepares students for roles in emergency management across government, industry, and community organizations. Career pathways include crisis management, town planning, and work with non-profits. The program involves a capstone project for Master’s students.
Program Highlights
  • The TEM program offers an Accelerated Option, allowing students to complete graduate courses while still undergraduates.
  • UMA's TEM Advisory Council provides internships and hands-on field opportunities through partnerships with local emergency services.
  • The program emphasizes specialized career tracks, including Community Resilience and Emergency Management Preparedness concentrations.
School Details
  • AccreditationNECHE
  • Average Tuition$7,350
  • Average Grant Aid$4,089
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid92%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid99%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course79%
7

Bethel University

McKenzie, Tennessee

Why We Selected Bethel University:
Bethel University offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Services Management, equipping students for careers in emergency services, homeland security, and public safety. The program requires 128 credits and prepares students for roles in government agencies and police departments. Courses include Natural Disaster Planning, Terrorism Management, and Financial Management of Emergency Response. Tuition is $362 per credit hour, including fees and textbooks, and admission requires at least 30 transfer credits. Students can access scholarships and financial aid, with graduates entering high-demand fields leveraging the program’s strong academic foundation. The program is well-regarded, having been ranked among the top online programs.
Program Highlights
  • Bethel University offers a flat tuition rate that includes fees and textbooks for online programs.
  • Students can benefit from scholarships and financial aid options tailored to their academic performance.
  • Faculty expertise in emergency services management provides personalized guidance and real-world insights.
School Details
  • AccreditationHLC
  • Average Tuition$12,721
  • Average Grant Aid$8,757
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid82%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid98%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio13/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course65%
8

Florida International University

Miami, Florida

Why We Selected Florida International University:
The Graduate Certificate in Homeland Security and Emergency Management at Florida International University provides specialized training in managing crisis situations. It focuses on building skills in emergency preparedness, response, and recovery for professionals enhancing their expertise. While specific details on program length, cost, and financial aid are unavailable, typical graduate certificates require fewer credits and less time than full degree programs. Admissions generally require a bachelor’s degree and other standardized materials. Career outcomes include roles in emergency management, security, and public policy, offering versatility in government, private sectors, or non-profit organizations.
Program Highlights
  • Faculty expertise in intergovernmental policy frameworks and regional resource management.
  • Networking opportunities aligned with FIU's urban mission and local government focus.
  • Collaborations across public, nonprofit, and private sectors for diverse hands-on experiences.
School Details
  • AccreditationSACSCOC
  • Average Tuition$4,721
  • Average Grant Aid$3,956
  • % of Students Awarded Grant Aid76%
  • % of Students Awarded Any Financial Aid96%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio24/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course65%
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Jolissa Skow AUTHOR

Jolissa Skow is an experienced health and education writer with a passion for making complex topics accessible to a wide audience. With a background in English and journalism, she has spent over a decade crafting research-driven content that informs and empowers readers. Her work spans health, wellness, and medical education, blending clear communication with evidence-based insights. Through her experience in digital content strategy, Jolissa ensures that important health information reaches those who need it most, helping individuals make informed decisions about their well-being.

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Grace Butler EDITOR

"Grace E. Butler is an accomplished editor and writer with a strong background in literary publishing, content creation, and academic instruction. With a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from The University of South Carolina, she has honed her expertise in editorial leadership, fiction editing, and content development. Grace has extensive experience working with literary journals and digital publications. Her background includes writing and editing for print and digital media, producing feature articles, news pieces, and cultural analysis. Beyond editorial work, she has instructed first-year English and creative writing at the university level, helping students refine their craft through critical feedback and mentorship. Grace has also worked as a writing tutor, supporting undergraduate and graduate students in developing strong, effective written communication."

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