Explore Top Online Emergency Management Degrees

Emergency Management Degrees: Knowing the Basics

An emergency management degree equips you with the knowledge and skills to prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters and crises. These programs cover key areas such as risk assessment, disaster response planning, crisis communication, and recovery coordination. You’ll learn how to develop emergency preparedness strategies, manage resources, and lead response efforts in high-pressure situations.

This degree can open doors to careers in government agencies, healthcare organizations, nonprofit relief efforts, and private-sector business continuity planning. Many programs also integrate FEMA training and certifications, leadership training, and hands-on simulations to ensure graduates are ready for real-world challenges.

There is a growing need for emergency management professionals across multiple industries. An emergency management degree provides a strong foundation for a stable and impactful career, whether you’re interested in public safety, homeland security, corporate risk management, or more.

Still interested? Let’s take a deeper look at career paths in Emergency Management and see which one might be the right fit.

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.

Salary and Career Details

Understanding Emergency Management Degrees by Level: Which Should You Get?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Exploring Online Emergency Management Programs: Questions to Ask

Selecting the best online emergency management program is a critical step toward your future career. With many programs and degree types available, carefully comparing your options ensures you pick one that meets your goals and expectations.

Key factors to consider include understanding your interests, educational costs, flexibility, and program credibility. To help you explore these important considerations and choose confidently, here are some questions you can ask yourself to help get you started on your search.

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.

What to Pay: 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: Your Questions Answered

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.

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 Top Picks: 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.