In our interdependent world, hazardous incidents can affect individuals, organizations and communities. In this program, you’ll explore an integrative approach to managing risk and building resilience in the face of natural and human-caused disasters. You’ll also gain perspective of the economic, social and public policy implications of disasters, terrorism and national security threats.
Additionally, you’ll learn how to assess vulnerabilities and manage risk associated with crisis situations, promote security and protect critical assets. Upon graduation, you’ll have an interdisciplinary skill set, including:
- Collaborating across teams and organizations.
- Communicating with the public and emergency services communities.
- Conducting risk and vulnerability assessments.
- Deploying human capital and technological systems for decision support.
- Management and strategic planning.
- Writing for multiple audiences.
What you can do with a bachelor's in emergency management and homeland security
You can pursue a variety of roles in disaster response and preparedness, ranging from an emergency preparedness specialist in a public health agency to an analyst in corporate global security operations. Other career paths include security policy, program planning, crisis operations, quality assurance, mission support and more.
If you hold a role as a first responder, nonprofit worker or government employee, earning a bachelor’s in homeland security and emergency management can also boost your upward mobility. This program may also be an ideal fit for veterans or active-duty service members transitioning to civilian work.
Additionally, this bachelor’s degree can be completed as part of an Accelerated Master’s program. When accepted, you can earn a master’s degree in as little as one year after completing your undergraduate degree. This opportunity saves you time and money while giving you advanced knowledge in your field. Applicable master's degrees include:
- Master of Arts in emergency management and homeland security.
- Master of Public Administration.
- Master of Science in program evaluation and data analytics.
Does this degree prepare me for disaster relief jobs?
Yes. With the abilities you’ll develop related to emergency operations, continuity management and cross-organizational communication, you’ll be equipped to work on teams responding to any disaster. This can include intentional human acts (e.g. terrorism), accidental human hazards (e.g. chemical releases from train derailments) or disasters from natural hazards (e.g. hurricanes or wildfires).
Additionally, this program places an emphasis on professional development and applied coursework to build skills. You’ll have the opportunity to complete certifications that support your career, such as credentials offered by the Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA).

Are you interested in reducing the risk of disaster associated with natural hazards or human-caused incidents and building community resilience? If so, Arizona State University’s Bachelor of Science in emergency management and homeland security may be the right fit. In this program, you’ll gain the skills and knowledge needed to prevent, plan for and recover from disasters. You’ll graduate prepared for a rewarding career in the private sector, nonprofits or government organizations.
Your courses will cover a variety of topics ranging from new and emerging biological threats to cybersecurity and disaster risk reduction. As a culminating experience, you’ll complete a capstone project which allows you to develop solutions for planning and responding to disasters that you could encounter in your future roles. Courses may include:
The impressive faculty in the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions inspire the next generation of public service leaders through real-world solutions to issues in areas such as child welfare, safety, city management, human trafficking and water scarcity. Faculty highlights include:
- Fellow of the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences.
- Fellow of the American Psychological Association.
- Member of the National Academy of Public Administration.
The Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions is a comprehensive public service college dedicated to addressing social problems through teaching, research and service. Our public service programs, from public policy, to social work, to criminal justice, to emergency management, are designed to help prepare our diverse student body to make a difference in the community.
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No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”