Master of Science in Emergency Management

Building a Workforce of Leaders in Preparedness and Disaster Management

How does the MSEM program work?

The 30-credit program is designed so that it can be completed in two calendar years. However, the program is also flexible for those who need less or additional time to complete the requirements.  The online courses, traditionally taught in the evenings, include faculty and student interaction, discussions, group work and individual projects.  Courses are offered year round, with flexibility for the student’s busy life.

The culminating requirement of the program is a practicum course, in which students will use what they have learned throughout the program to improve existing emergency response polices, plans, and practices in an emergency response organization. Using these skills to upgrade the organization’s procedures to reflect best practices and research, the student's practicum may take place at a current job site, volunteer position, or at a field location.  The student also has the option to develop and defend a thesis, allowing for both a hands-on or research based project to complete the program.

What if I don't have any emergency management experience?

Our students come from varying disciplines, some with little to no experience or training in emergency management. Other students enrolled in the program are employed in emergency management positions.  The mixture of disciplines and emergency management experience of our students makes for a diverse learning environment.  Students are learning from our instructors and each other in this expanding field.  The program is designed so that it not only benefits those currently working in emergency management but also those seeking to enter into emergency management careers.