Best Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management

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Updated October 5, 2023

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An online bachelor's in emergency management prepares you to help people affected by disasters.

When you think of emergency workers, people such as doctors, firefighters, and police officers may come to mind. These professionals perform critical work by directing front-line personnel and resources behind the scenes.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that positions in emergency management will grow by 8% from 2016 through 2026, outpacing the average growth for all professions in the United States. By earning your online bachelor's degree in emergency management, you can explore several job opportunities.

The Best Online Bachelor's in Emergency Management Programs

#1 Best Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

  • Daytona Beach, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online

Looking to earn a flexible online degree in emergency management? Consider Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Of its online programs, 16 offer an undergraduate-level education. Students looking to advance in the emergency management field will find the school's bachelor's in emergency services to be an attractive option. The flexible program helps learners complete a college degree.

Throughout their coursework, students gain industry-relevant knowledge through general and advanced classes. These classes equip students with emergency management-specific and broad knowledge and skills. Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to customize their studies through modified courses, electives, minors, and concentrations.

A bachelor's degree connects graduates with numerous job opportunities and a higher earning potential. The institution reports that graduates six years out from their degree earn a median salary of $51,400. Prospective students can meet with the financial aid office to learn more about funding opportunities and eligibility requirements.

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University at a Glance:

Online Enrollment: 12,828

Total Online Programs: 42

Online Bachelor's Programs: 16

Admission Rate: 62%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,912
Out-of-state
$9,912
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,268
Out-of-state
$8,268
Retention Rate
52%
Acceptance Rate
62%
Students Enrolled
13,773
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
93% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management

Arkansas State University

  • Jonesboro, AR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Arkansas State University is a public, four-year institution providing competitive study across 73 bachelor's degree programs. The public school supports distance learners across 10 online bachelor's programs. Learners in the disaster preparedness and emergency management program are prepared for the demands of the emergency management field through rigorous study.

The program balances rigor with flexibility. Students can collaborate with their academic advisor to find classes that complement their career interests. Learners can customize their learning through electives, minors, and other modifications.

Undergraduate students pay approximately $13,500 in tuition. The accredited institution connects students with internal and external funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships. Degree-seekers receive a financial aid award package amounting to $8,383 on average.

Arkansas State University at a Glance:

Online Enrollment: 7,939

Total Online Programs: 42

Online Bachelor's Programs: 10

Admission Rate: 80%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,540
Out-of-state
$13,500
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,986
Out-of-state
$9,972
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
13,356
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#3 Best Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management

University of Alaska Fairbanks

  • Fairbanks, AK
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Alaska Fairbanks, a public, four-year college, offers premier educational opportunities across 54 bachelor's degree programs. The emergency management program is one of 13 online bachelor's degree programs available through the institution. Distance learners hoping to advance in the emergency management field will benefit from the college's bachelor of security and emergency management.

Enrollees complete a rigorous curriculum that enables flexible study. In consultation with their academic advisor, students can modify their course load to suit their needs. Online students also choose minors and electives to individualize the degree.

Emergency management enrollees can expect to pay $22,980 in tuition. Learners can benefit from scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid through the university. The average financial aid award per student at this college is $8,323.

University of Alaska Fairbanks at a Glance:

Online Enrollment: 4,867

Total Online Programs: 54

Online Bachelor's Programs: 13

Admission Rate: 76%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,962
Out-of-state
$22,980
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,414
Out-of-state
$21,904
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
7,179
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
68% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#4 Best Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management

University of Central Missouri

  • Warrensburg, MO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

As a leader in online education, the University of Central Missouri supports 4,403 distance learners across 21 remote degree programs. Undergraduate students can choose from six online bachelor's programs. Students looking to advance in the emergency management field will find the school's BS in crisis and disaster management to be an attractive option. Students in the disaster management program can complete classes at their own pace, with the option for part-time study.

During the disaster management program, students complete foundational and advanced coursework relevant to the emergency management field. These classes equip students with field-specific and broad knowledge and skills. Students can explore electives, minors, and concentrations with their academic advisor to individualize their degree.

A bachelor's degree connects graduates with numerous job opportunities and a higher earning potential. The institution reports a median salary of $35,100 earned by graduates six years after completing their studies. Emergency management students pay $13,098 for tuition and fees on average per year. Students can meet with the emergency management department directly to inquire about admission requirements, application materials, and more.

University of Central Missouri at a Glance:

Online Enrollment: 4,403

Total Online Programs: 21

Online Bachelor's Programs: 6

Admission Rate: 65%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,128
Out-of-state
$14,256
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,524
Out-of-state
$15,048
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
65%
Students Enrolled
11,229
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
39% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#5 Best Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management

SUNY Canton

  • Canton, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

SUNY Canton is a public, four-year college offering a variety of competitive bachelor's degree programs. The public college supports 12 online bachelor's programs from its main campus in New York State. The online bachelor's in emergency management program is an attractive option for learners seeking to secure a career in emergency management.

Emergency management students can maximize flexibility through modified coursework and the option to pursue part-time enrollment. Learners work with their academic advisor to create a course schedule meeting their career and academic goals. Enrollees can explore other educational opportunities, such as minors and elective courses, to customize their studies.

Currently, undergraduate emergency management students pay $13,534 in tuition. Distance learners at the accredited institution qualify for federal financial aid programs and other forms of aid. The college reports that degree-seekers are awarded an average of $9,262 in financial aid.

SUNY Canton at a Glance:

Online Enrollment: 2,072

Total Online Programs: 18

Online Bachelor's Programs: 12

Admission Rate: 85%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,070
Out-of-state
$13,534
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
70%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
3,223
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
64% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#6 Best Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management

Crown College

  • Saint Bonifacius, MN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Located in Saint Bonifacius, Minnesota, Crown College offers many top-ranked bachelor's programs. The private institution boasts 10 online bachelor's degree programs. The bachelor's in disaster and emergency management program is one of 10 programs providing a premier education.

The emergency management program supports flexible study for learners from all walks of life. The program curriculum equips students with industry-relevant knowledge. Electives, minors, and other modifications can benefit students and help them meet their career goals.

Undergraduates pay a tuition rate of $26,480 at the school. Distance learners at the accredited institution qualify for federal financial aid programs and other forms of aid.

Crown College at a Glance:

Online Enrollment: 1,030

Total Online Programs: 29

Online Bachelor's Programs: 10

Admission Rate: 50%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$26,480
Out-of-state
$26,480
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,720
Out-of-state
$9,720
Retention Rate
64%
Acceptance Rate
50%
Students Enrolled
1,522
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
68% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#7 Best Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management

Pierce College-Fort Steilacoom

  • Lakewood, WA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students seeking flexible online study should consider Pierce College-Fort Steilacoom. A leader in online education, the institution supports 4,225 distance learners. The online BAS in homeland security emergency management is an attractive option for learners seeking to secure a career in emergency management.

The emergency management program supports flexible study for learners from all walks of life. Students complete general and advanced coursework, with the opportunity to modify the curriculum. Students can work with their academic advisor to adjust their classes to suit their career interests.

Undergraduate students pay approximately $4,078 in tuition. Emergency management students can access scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities while enrolled. Degree-seekers can expect to receive a financial aid award package of about $6,617.

Pierce College-Fort Steilacoom at a Glance:

Online Enrollment: 4,225

Total Online Programs: 3

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,636
Out-of-state
$4,078
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
6,195
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
68% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#8 Best Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management

Upper Iowa University

  • Fayette, IA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Upper Iowa University provides flexible study opportunities to distance learners across 57 degree programs. Undergraduate students can choose from 21 online bachelor's programs. For students looking to advance in the emergency management field, the school's online bachelor's in emergency and disaster management is a wise choice. This program offers customization to help students earn a degree that meets their needs.

Enrollees complete both foundational and advanced coursework, granting them the knowledge and skills needed to advance in the emergency management field. Enrollees gain broad and specific skills. Learners can work with their academic advisor to customize their studies through modified courses, electives, minors, and concentrations.

The benefits of a bachelor's degree are varied, including increased job opportunities and higher earning potential. The institution reports that graduates six years out from their degree earn a median salary of $41,200. To learn more about funding opportunities and eligibility requirements, students should contact the financial aid office.

Upper Iowa University at a Glance:

Online Enrollment: 2,916

Total Online Programs: 57

Online Bachelor's Programs: 21

Admission Rate: 51%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$30,810
Out-of-state
$30,810
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$21,060
Out-of-state
$21,060
Retention Rate
64%
Acceptance Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
4,279
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
68% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#9 Best Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management

Bethel University

  • McKenzie, TN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Students seeking to enroll in a competitive bachelor's degree program should consider Bethel University. The institution supports seven remote online bachelor's degree programs. The BS in emergency services management is one of seven programs providing a premier education.

The rigorous curriculum enables flexible study through adaptable coursework. The program prioritizes flexibility in student learning. Learners can customize their learning through electives, minors, and other modifications.

Undergraduate students pay approximately $10,188 in tuition. Distance learners at the accredited institution qualify for federal financial aid programs and other forms of aid.

Bethel University at a Glance:

Online Enrollment: 1,582

Total Online Programs: 16

Online Bachelor's Programs: 7

Admission Rate: 90%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,188
Out-of-state
$10,188
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,034
Out-of-state
$11,034
Retention Rate
62%
Acceptance Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
3,119
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
51% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#10 Best Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management

Immaculata University

  • Immaculata, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Learners looking for competitive online learning opportunities should consider Immaculata University's online bachelor's degree programs. Distance learners can choose from nine fully online bachelor's programs. The BS in emergency planning and management is an attractive option for students seeking to advance in the emergency management field.

The program curriculum enables flexible study. Majors work with academic advisors to select classes that match their interests and fit their schedule. Enrollees can modify coursework, choose electives, and pursue other educational opportunities relevant to their career goals.

When calculating the cost of a degree, students should note the current tuition rate of $26,500. The school's accreditation status allows students to access funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships.

Immaculata University at a Glance:

Online Enrollment: 1,095

Total Online Programs: 14

Online Bachelor's Programs: 9

Admission Rate: 81%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$26,500
Out-of-state
$26,500
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,780
Out-of-state
$12,780
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
81%
Students Enrolled
2,479
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
44% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#11 Best Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management

Adelphi University

  • Garden City, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Adelphi University, a private, nonprofit, four-year college, offers premier educational opportunities across 50 bachelor's degree programs. The institution prides itself on its leadership in online learning, while offering an online bachelor's program in emergency management. Distance learners looking to earn an online degree can enroll in the BS in emergency services administration program.

The emergency management program connects students with a supportive online learning community, while enabling flexibility. Students can collaborate with their academic advisor to find classes that complement their career interests. Enrollees can choose electives and minors to supplement their learning.

Undergraduate students pay approximately $38,470 in tuition. Students at the accredited institution can pursue funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships, to support their studies.

Adelphi University at a Glance:

Online Enrollment: 1,686

Total Online Programs: 9

Online Bachelor's Programs: 1

Admission Rate: 74%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$38,470
Out-of-state
$38,470
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$41,920
Out-of-state
$41,920
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
74%
Students Enrolled
7,991
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
21% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#12 Best Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management

Bellevue University

  • Bellevue, NE
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Bellevue University provides flexible study opportunities to distance learners across 79 degree programs. Undergraduates choose from 54 online bachelor's programs at the private, nonprofit, four-year institution. The bachelor's in emergency management is an attractive option for students seeking to advance in the emergency management field. Learners in the emergency management program benefit from flexible study, with the option to enroll full or part time.

Students complete industry-relevant classes throughout the program, gaining broad and specific knowledge of the emergency management field. The curriculum prepares students for the demands of emergency management careers. Enrollees can customize their studies by working with their academic advisor to choose electives, minors, and degree concentrations.

A bachelor's degree greatly increases one's earning potential. At the college, students earn a median salary of $52,200 six years after graduation. Students interested in learning more about admission requirements and their eligibility for financial aid should connect with the emergency management department.

Bellevue University at a Glance:

Online Enrollment: 11,008

Total Online Programs: 79

Online Bachelor's Programs: 54

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$7,176
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,530
Out-of-state
$10,530
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
11,637
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
95% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#13 Best Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management

New England College

  • Henniker, NH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

New England College, a private, nonprofit, four-year college in Henniker, New Hampshire, supports online learning across 33 online programs. Undergraduate students seeking flexible, remote study can choose from 18 online bachelor's degree programs. The BA in homeland security and emergency preparedness prioritizes flexibility, making it an attractive option for working professionals and busy students. The emergency management program accommodates flexible study, so enrollees can learn at their own pace.

Throughout their coursework, students gain industry-relevant knowledge through foundational and advanced classes. The emergency management program also incorporates general education requirements that strengthen critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Enrollees have the option to modify their studies, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations.

Graduates often greatly benefit from their education, gaining access to more job opportunities and a higher earning potential. The median salary for graduates six years after their degree completion is $31,700, according to the college. Students can meet with the Office of Financial Aid to learn more about funding opportunities and eligibility requirements for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid.

New England College at a Glance:

Online Enrollment: 2,145

Total Online Programs: 33

Online Bachelor's Programs: 18

Admission Rate: 100%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$24,555
Out-of-state
$24,555
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,088
Out-of-state
$14,088
Retention Rate
58%
Acceptance Rate
100%
Students Enrolled
3,527
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
61% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#14 Best Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management

Indiana Institute of Technology

  • Fort Wayne, IN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The Indiana Institute of Technology is a private, nonprofit, four-year college offering a variety of competitive bachelor's degree programs. A leader in online education, the private institution provides fully online bachelor's degrees. The BS in emergency response management supports flexible, rigorous study.

The program balances rigor with flexibility. The curriculum equips students with industry-relevant knowledge. Electives, minors, and other modifications can benefit students and help them meet their career goals.

Undergraduate students typically pay $26,990 in tuition. Enrollees can benefit from scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid through the college.

Indiana Institute of Technology at a Glance:

Online Enrollment: 796

Total Online Programs: 6

Admission Rate: 60%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$26,990
Out-of-state
$26,990
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,026
Out-of-state
$10,026
Retention Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
60%
Students Enrolled
2,223
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
36% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#15 Best Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management

Barry University

  • Miami, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Barry University is a private, nonprofit, four-year college offering a variety of competitive bachelor's degree programs. Located in Miami, Florida, the private institution boasts five online bachelor's degree programs. The online bachelor's in emergency management program supports distance learners.

The emergency management program delivers flexible study for individuals from all walks of life. Learners work with an academic advisor to create a course schedule meeting their career and academic goals. Online students also choose minors and electives to individualize the degree.

Undergraduate emergency management students can expect to pay $29,700 in tuition. The school's accreditation status allows students to access funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships.

Barry University at a Glance:

Online Enrollment: 1,208

Total Online Programs: 21

Online Bachelor's Programs: 5

Admission Rate: 51%

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$29,700
Out-of-state
$29,700
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$17,820
Out-of-state
$17,820
Retention Rate
65%
Acceptance Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
7,401
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
16% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Best Online Bachelor's

Online Bachelor's in Emergency Management Programs Ranking Guidelines

We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.

Our Methodology

Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.

Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools cannot buy better rankings at TBS.

While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.

  • Academics
  • Affordability
  • Online Enrollment

Data Sources

The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.

The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the College Navigator.

Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from AcademicInfluence.com, subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.

Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology

About Our Ranking Factors

Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.

Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.

We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.

Academics - 75%

Affordability - 15%

Online Enrollment - 10%

In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.

If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through contact page.

We thank you for your readership and trust.

Featured Online Emergency Management Bachelor's Programs

The Advantages of an Emergency Management Education

While an associate degree may enable you to assume some entry-level positions, a bachelor's degree serves as the minimum education requirement for many positions in the emergency management field. Emergency management careers require strong organizational and management skills, along with in-depth knowledge of complex emergency response procedures — competencies a four-year bachelor's program gives you plenty of time to develop.

Earning your emergency management bachelor's degree online prepares you to enter a wide variety of positions in the field, particularly higher level roles that require you to manage other emergency personnel. A bachelor's opens most career paths in the industry, but certain highly specialized roles in upper management may require a master's degree. In the following section, you'll find an overview of general career prospects for emergency management specialists, along with a selection of common careers for bachelor's degree holders in the field.

Choosing an Online Emergency Management Degree Program

Because pursuing a bachelor's degree involves significant investments of time and money, deciding which institution best serves your needs should not be taken lightly. Ensure that you have fully investigated all your options, keeping in mind that in-state schools are often more affordable, even for online programs. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you examine schools:

Accreditation for Emergency Management

When researching online emergency management degrees, always make sure that a program has proper accreditation. This process indicates that a college meets standards for academic and organizational effectiveness and provides adequate preparation for career success or further academic study. All reputable colleges in the U.S. hold either national or regional accreditation, with national accreditation typically serving vocational institutions and regional accreditation typically reserved for traditional academic institutions.

While no specific accreditation agency assesses emergency management programs, those administered by regionally accredited colleges or universities have established their reputability. Look for accreditation from one of six regional agencies: the Higher Learning Commission, the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, the New England Commission of Higher Education, the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, or the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

If you ever need to determine a school's accreditation status and have trouble finding information on its website, you can check both the Department of Education (ED) or the Council for Higher Education Administration (CHEA). These agencies work together to oversee accreditation standards for colleges and universities, with CHEA serving as the main authority that evaluates regional and national accreditation agencies.

Emergency Management Concentrations

Some programs allow you to choose a concentration. In a business continuity concentration, you can learn how to help businesses prevent economic losses following disasters. If you want to work in state or local government, you can specialize in homeland security. This concentration covers terrorism prevention and response. When researching these and other concentrations, pay close attention to how they align with your career goals and interests.

Homeland Security:

A popular concentration for emergency management students, this field focuses on strategies for detecting and averting threats to U.S. national security, including terrorist attacks. Most programs emphasize a global approach, exploring the roots of terrorism, intelligence collection, threat assessment, and response strategies.

  • Careers This Concentration Prepares For: Homeland Security Officer, FBI Agent, CIA Operative

Fire Science:

Wildfires present a growing risk in many parts of the country, and fire science explores methods for fire prevention, crisis management, and emergency response. Fire science graduates often work with state or federal agencies to prevent and respond to forest fires, though they may also work to combat urban and industrial fires, as well.

  • Careers This Concentration Prepares For: Firefighter, Safety and Disaster Coordinator

Disaster Preparedness:

This generalized concentration trains students to respond to disasters. Disaster preparedness specialists commonly focus on logistics and organization to ensure that disaster agencies maintain adequate crisis management plans. This concentration often includes courses in resource management, risk assessment, and communications.

  • Careers This Concentration Prepares For: Emergency Management Specialist

Public Safety Leadership:

Public service plays a large role in emergency management, and this concentration focuses on the communicative and organizational aspects of the field. Students gain the skills to manage communications and response efforts during disasters, typically taking courses in organizational behavior, communications, law, and ethics.

  • Careers This Concentration Prepares For: Emergency Management Coordinator

Business Continuity:

This popular concentration explores emergency management in the context of business operations, preparing companies to navigate emergencies and continue operations after disaster events. Most programs focus on protecting data and maintaining organizational efficiency in the face of disaster. Business continuity students typically complete supplementary business courses to understand business operations further.

  • Careers This Concentration Prepares For: Operations Manager, Information Technology Manager

How Long Does It Take to Get a Degree in Emergency Management?

Several factors can affect the length of an online emergency management degree, but the most common factor is your program format. Many online programs offer a choice between part- and full-time enrollment, allowing for the flexibility to take a lighter course load if you have significant responsibilities outside of school (such as work or family obligations). Part-time enrollment means fewer class obligations each semester, but it also results in a lengthier degree completion time, typically requiring more than four years total.

Conversely, enrolling full time typically enables you to complete your online emergency management degree in about four years, even faster if you enroll in summer courses. However, full-time enrollment requires serious commitment and can make it difficult to balance school with other obligations. If you have a highly flexible schedule, some schools even offer accelerated programs that enable you to take extra courses each semester, graduating in under four years.

Courses in an Online Bachelor's in Emergency Management Program

Online emergency management degree programs take a holistic approach to education. Courses should teach you valuable skills, such as leadership, mitigating harm, and coordinating with various government and private relief agencies. These classes give you the skills necessary to respond to any emergency.

  • Emergency Management Leadership: Leadership in the world of emergency management poses unique challenges, such as resource management and extremely quick decision-making. This course explores major theories and leadership tools, including persuasion and influence, conflict management, accountable budgeting, and interactions with outside agencies.
  • Politics of Emergency Management: Emergency management services frequently intersects with government agencies and other institutional structures. This course examines government organizations and policies at the local, state, and federal levels to evaluate the impact these systems have on disaster relief efforts and corresponding public policy.
  • Applied Research in Emergency Management: Research forms the foundation for many common emergency management techniques and policies, and this course gives students the tools to conduct research and evaluate others' work in the field. Many courses require students to complete research projects into areas of emergency management.
  • Emergency Planning and Administration: This course explores the theories and principles of emergency planning, giving students the tools to assess risks and implement preparedness measures. Common course topics include operational controls, public accountability, and emergency management budgeting. Students also explore the intersection of emergency management with government agencies and nonprofits.
  • Technology in Emergency Management: Like most fields, emergency management increasingly relies on technology to increase efficiency and facilitate decision-making. This course explores common tools for incident management and emergency communication, giving students the skills to prioritize technology and make effective purchasing decisions for emergency management organizations.

Emergency Management Degree Salary Information

Emergency managers work as emergency responders and risk prevention specialists in the private and public sectors. Like in other career fields, experience and education can help you advance in your career. The occupations below represent only a sample of the possible careers you may pursue after completing your homeland security or emergency management degree online.

Emergency Management Specialist

Emergency management specialists, in one of the most common careers in the emergency management field, prepare response efforts for emergencies and other disasters. They may work full time or as consultants in a variety of environments, such as government organizations, private companies, or hospitals.

Emergency Manager

Emergency managers operate in a supervisory capacity, overseeing emergency preparation and response efforts. They may be responsible for creating and enacting disaster response plans for entire organizations or communities. Emergency managers must often coordinate with government officials, other public safety officials, and disaster relief organizations.

Management and Program Analyst

Management and program analysts in this role concentrate on the evaluation and improvement of emergency preparedness measures and responses. They conduct deep organizational studies into potential threats and response strategies, determining methods to improve efficiency. This job involves significant research and quantitative reasoning skills.

Materials Manager

Materials managers work with hazardous materials, such as chemicals or industrial waste. Along with standard operations management, many companies employ materials managers who take responsibility for disaster preparedness, such as chemical spills, fires, or industrial explosions. Like other emergency managers, materials managers also coordinate preparedness and response protocols.

Research Analyst

Research analysts evaluate emergency response protocols to improve efficiency. However, they focus specifically on research-based analysis, examining operations-related trends to inform organizational decision-making. They may also create complex simulations to gather data for improved emergency response practices.

Salary by Experience for Emergency Management Careers
Job Title Entry Level
(0-12 Months)
Early Career
(1-4 Years)
Midcareer
(5-9 Years)
Experienced
(10-19 Years)
Emergency Management Specialist $49,000 $51,000 $60,000 $71,000
Emergency Manager N/A $53,000 $68,000 $79,000
Management and Program Analyst $56,000 $61,000 $74,000 $97,000
Materials Manager $54,000 $63,000 $72,000 $80,000
Research Analyst, Operations $61,000 $70,000 $85,000 $106,000

Source: PayScale

Emergency Management Membership Associations

As one of the country's premier emergency management organizations, NEMA offers peer networking, education opportunities, and community engagement. The organization hosts several annual forums and meetings that bring together emergency management professionals of all types. Founded in 1962, DERA seeks to connect disaster organizations, professionals, and volunteers across the world. The organization offers mentorship, technical training, quarterly publications, and a comprehensive disaster management reference library for members. Dedicated to homeland security, the IACSP serves security professionals through educational resources, trade publications, and professional conferences. The organization also publishes Counter Terrorism, a quarterly journal for security professionals. A nonprofit that provides education and professional accreditation services, DRI has certified more than 15,000 disaster recovery professionals in more than 100 countries around the world. The organization also offers an assortment of specialized disaster management certifications. One of the world's largest professional organizations for emergency management professionals, IAEM advocates and advises for emergency management policy, provides training and professional certifications, and hosts conferences around the world.

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