Best Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management

TBS Staff Writers
By
Updated on October 5, 2023

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

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
#1 Best Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

  • Location-markerDaytona Beach, FL
  • 4 year
  • 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 Rate52%
  • Acceptance Rate62%
  • Students Enrolled13,773
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment93%
  • AccreditationYes
#2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management

Arkansas State University

  • Location-markerJonesboro, AR
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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 Rate75%
  • Acceptance Rate80%
  • Students Enrolled13,356
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment59%
  • AccreditationYes
#3 Best Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management

University of Alaska Fairbanks

  • Location-markerFairbanks, AK
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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 Rate73%
  • Acceptance Rate76%
  • Students Enrolled7,179
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment68%
  • AccreditationYes
#4 Best Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management

University of Central Missouri

  • Location-markerWarrensburg, MO
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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 Rate74%
  • Acceptance Rate65%
  • Students Enrolled11,229
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment39%
  • AccreditationYes
#5 Best Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management

SUNY Canton

  • Location-markerCanton, NY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate70%
  • Acceptance Rate85%
  • Students Enrolled3,223
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment64%
  • AccreditationYes
#6 Best Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management

Crown College

  • Location-markerSaint Bonifacius, MN
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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 Rate64%
  • Acceptance Rate50%
  • Students Enrolled1,522
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment68%
  • AccreditationYes
#7 Best Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management

Pierce College-Fort Steilacoom

  • Location-markerLakewood, WA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention RateN/A
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled6,195
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment68%
  • AccreditationYes
#8 Best Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management

Upper Iowa University

  • Location-markerFayette, IA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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 Rate64%
  • Acceptance Rate51%
  • Students Enrolled4,279
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment68%
  • AccreditationYes
#9 Best Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management

Bethel University

  • Location-markerMcKenzie, TN
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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 Rate62%
  • Acceptance Rate90%
  • Students Enrolled3,119
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment51%
  • AccreditationYes
#10 Best Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management

Immaculata University

  • Location-markerImmaculata, PA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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 Rate86%
  • Acceptance Rate81%
  • Students Enrolled2,479
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment44%
  • AccreditationYes
#11 Best Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management

Adelphi University

  • Location-markerGarden City, NY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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 Rate79%
  • Acceptance Rate74%
  • Students Enrolled7,991
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment21%
  • AccreditationYes
#12 Best Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management

Bellevue University

  • Location-markerBellevue, NE
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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 Rate78%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled11,637
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment95%
  • AccreditationYes
#13 Best Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management

New England College

  • Location-markerHenniker, NH
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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 Rate58%
  • Acceptance Rate100%
  • Students Enrolled3,527
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment61%
  • AccreditationYes
#14 Best Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management

Indiana Institute of Technology

  • Location-markerFort Wayne, IN
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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 Rate68%
  • Acceptance Rate60%
  • Students Enrolled2,223
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment36%
  • AccreditationYes
#15 Best Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management

Barry University

  • Location-markerMiami, FL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

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 Rate65%
  • Acceptance Rate51%
  • Students Enrolled7,401
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment16%
  • AccreditationYes

Best Online Bachelors

Emergency Management

2022


The Best Schools

Online Bachelor’s in Emergency Management Programs Ranking Guidelines

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

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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.

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 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 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 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 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 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 TitleEntry 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 ManagerN/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

National Emergency Management Association

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.

International Association for Disaster Preparedness and Response

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.

The International Association for Counterterrorism and Security Professionals

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.

Disaster Recovery Institute International

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.

International Association of Emergency Managers

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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