Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management and Homeland Security
Pursue Your Homeland Security and Emergency Management Degree Online or On CampusProgram Overview
Do you feel called to serve and protect our nation and its people in times of crisis? Would you like to more thoroughly explore the purpose and mission of protective agencies such as the Department of Homeland Security? Prepare for a future of service to your nation and your community with help from the Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management and Homeland Security at Post University!
Coursework for our homeland security and emergency management degree focuses on the four phases of emergency management: mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. It offers learning experiences to help develop the skills to prepare for pending emergencies, manage operations during an event, and conduct recovery efforts afterward. It covers what it takes to apply creative problem solving and make decisions to address critical homeland security and public safety issues. It also offers a historical perspective of terrorism, particularly within the United States and its interests abroad, and an analysis of past crises and disasters, as well as pending potential threats.
Curriculum
Total Program Credits: 120 Required Credits
General Education: 60 Required Credits
Leadership Course: 3 Credits
Major, Core, & Concentrations: 51 Required Credits
College to Career Core: 6 Required Credits
Industry-Focused Curriculum for Professional Skills
Coursework for your program is designed to help you build the foundation of insights and practical skills necessary to:
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Understand the four phases of emergency management: mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery
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Discuss the foundations of homeland security in relation to the U.S. and its interests
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Describe the role of government, military, public, and private organizations in emergency management and homeland security
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Identify critical factors for effective communication, collaboration, and cooperation
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Develop and evaluate emergency management and security plans
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And more!
Concentrations
Emergency Management and Homeland Security Concentrations
In addition to core coursework covering emergency management, homeland security, public health, crisis communications, and disaster planning, you will have the opportunity to customize your degree to your future goals with one of these three concentrations:
Criminal Justice Leadership
Providing an introduction to criminal justice issues, this concentration explores what it takes to evaluate and differentiate the duties and leadership functions involved in public safety for criminal justice professionals.
Cybersecurity & Information Assurance
This concentration investigates ways to combat cybersecurity challenges. It provides learning experiences designed to help you identify and distinguish risks and threats to cybersecurity, cyberspace, and information systems while providing strategies to mitigate them.
Policing
Ready to pursue an understanding of the fundamental principles of law enforcement? This concentration offers the insights needed to evaluate and differentiate between various functions during the performance of duties as a law enforcement professional.
Sample Courses
Introduction to Emergency Management and Homeland Security
This course introduces the student to the closely interrelated fields of emergency management and homeland security. The course focuses on the development of the emergency management system within the United States, including the structure of federal, state and local emergency management systems. The course will also look at emergency management as implemented around the world. Students will be given an overview of the four phases of emergency management: mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery. The history of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security will be covered, including events that led to its creation, its mission and organization. Homeland security efforts at the state and local level will be explored. The course will define terrorism and discuss known terrorist groups that have posed a threat to the United States.
Public Health and Emergency Management
This course provides an overview of the interaction between public health and emergency management, with a focus on public health infrastructure at the local, state, federal, and international levels, including the critical role of the private sector. Students will examine how public health systems respond to disasters and emergencies within the National Response Framework (NRF). Key topics include engaging with access and functional needs populations, pandemic response, mass care and sheltering operations, public health response strategies for bioterrorism events, as well as mass fatality incidents.
Emergency Response & Incident Management
This course examines how response operations are structured and coordinated across local, state, tribal, territorial, and federal levels of government. Through case studies and scenario-based exercises, students will analyze the essential elements of response and incident management, with particular attention to interagency coordination, the role of private-sector partners, and the safeguarding of community lifelines and critical infrastructure. The course emphasizes the application of the National Response Framework (NRF) and the National Incident Management System (NIMS), as the foundation for effective, integrated response operations.
Crisis Decision Making
This course presents a practical exploration of principles and best practices used in decision-making during crises, emergencies, and disaster events. Biases and common errors made during the decision-making process will be examined. Factors and conditions that impact leadership decisions, including ethical considerations, will be identified and analyzed. Further, case studies will be used to evaluate leadership decisions made during historic disaster events.
The sample courses listed are intended to illustrate the types of coursework included in this program. Course offerings and requirements may change. Please consult the official University Catalog for current and complete program information.
Licensing Disclosure
Licensure and Program Disclosures
The Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management and Homeland Security degree is not designed to fulfill the educational requirements for any professional credential, such as a police officer certification.
Post University assists in researching and providing information regarding licensure; however, each state has different requirements for such licensure outside of the required education. Such state requirements may include licensure exams, background checks, certain work experience, and more. It is ultimately the responsibility of each student to manage their own licensure process and to ensure that all requirements are met in order for the student to obtain licensure. Post University does not speak on behalf of any licensing board or body and does not guarantee licensure. Requirements for licensure are subject to change without notice.
Learn about law enforcement and public safety careers through the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: https://www.bls.gov/, specifically: Police and Detectives, Correctional Officers and Bailiffs, and Emergency Management Directors.
Visit the University Catalog >> for Curriculum, Course Descriptions, and Program Outcomes.
“Students who come into our program want to help protect their country. They want to do something for their country. They understand there are a lot of difficult topics that we are going to be discussing. And I think they are ready for that.”
Ready to Apply?
Ready to Apply?The admissions team is available to walk you through each step of the application process and clarify any remaining questions.
Accreditation
Institutional Accreditation
College (University) is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (formerly the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc.). Inquiries regarding the accreditation status by the Commission should be directed to the administrative staff of the institution. Individuals may also contact:
New England Commission of Higher Education
301 Edgewater Place, Suite 210, Wakefield, MA 01880
(781) 425 7785
E-Mail: [email protected]
For more information on Post University's state licensure or accreditation, please visit the Accreditation page.
Undergraduate Admissions Requirements
Post University’s undergraduate admissions process is structured to be accessible for students planning to study online or on campus. All applicants must complete an admissions application and demonstrate high school completion or an equivalent credential.
Acceptable documentation includes:
- An official high school transcript showing graduation
- A General Education Development (GED) certificate or equivalent diploma
- A home-school transcript recognized by the student’s state
- An associate degree transcript
- Official college-level credit, typically 60 or more semester hours, that may apply toward a bachelor’s degree
Applicants are encouraged to connect with admissions advisors, including participating in an advisory session or interview, to support their transition into their selected program.
For detailed and format-specific requirements, including documentation and enrollment steps, please visit:
Why Students Choose Post University
“With the help of Post University, my goals seem closer than ever.”
Tuition & Ways to Save
An education at Post University is designed to provide long-term value. Tuition is competitively structured, and financial aid opportunities are available for those who qualify. Admissions and financial aid teams work with you to review available options and explain each step of the process clearly.
With multiple funding opportunities available, you may qualify for more than you expect.
Tuition Reductions →
Tuition reductions are available for eligible active-duty military service members, veterans, public safety professionals, education partners, alumni, and others who qualify.
Scholarships →
Post University offers a variety of institutional scholarships. Dedicated scholarship advisors assist students in identifying both institutional and relevant external scholarship opportunities.
Financial Aid →
Federal financial aid programs are available for many degree programs for students who qualify.
Transfer Credits →
Post University will evaluate course credit completed at eligible institutions, as well as credit earned through approved examinations or prior learning experiences, for potential transfer.
Military Benefits →
Military education benefits extend to active-duty service members, reservists, veterans, their families, and eligible Department of Defense civilian employees.
Student Loans →
Federal and private loan programs may be available to students who qualify.
Tuition Reductions →
Tuition reductions are available for eligible active-duty military service members, veterans, public safety professionals, education partners, alumni, and others who qualify.
Scholarships →
Post University offers a variety of institutional scholarships. Dedicated scholarship advisors assist students in identifying both institutional and relevant external scholarship opportunities.
Financial Aid →
Federal financial aid programs are available for many degree programs for students who qualify.
Transfer Credits →
Post University will evaluate course credit completed at eligible institutions, as well as credit earned through approved examinations or prior learning experiences, for potential transfer.
Military Benefits →
Military education benefits extend to active-duty service members, reservists, veterans, their families, and eligible Department of Defense civilian employees.
Student Loans →
Federal and private loan programs may be available to students who qualify.
Ready to take the next steps?
Admissions advisors are available to answer your questions, explain the application process, and help you explore which program aligns with your interests and experience.
If you are considering Post University, we invite you to begin the conversation.
Why Post University?
At Post University, you are not an anonymous face in a crowded lecture hall. You are known and supported from your first conversation through program completion. That is the meaning behind Post Makes It Personal®.
Our approach is grounded in three commitments: career focus, value, and personalization. Whether you are beginning your undergraduate journey, returning to continue your education, or pursuing a graduate degree, Post University offers programs developed with professional practice in mind, led by industry-experienced faculty, and delivered in formats designed to fit into your life.
Post people come from many different backgrounds and life stages. Some are stepping onto campus for the first time, while others are learning online while balancing work, family, military service, or community commitments. Across every format, students are part of a community built on connection, structure, and shared purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Could I Do With a Bachelor’s in Homeland Security and Emergency Management?
Classes for your bachelor’s program cover how to assess risk and vulnerabilities related to natural and human-caused events, as well as how to develop and evaluate plans to prepare for those events. They also offer insight on how to identify critical factors in communication, collaboration, and cooperation among stakeholders, the media, and others. Coursework offers the chance to transform classroom learnings into practical experience through mock disaster scenarios.
What Is an Emergency Management and Homeland Security Degree?
An emergency management and homeland security degree, like the Bachelor of Science at Post University, helps students gain skills and knowledge in emergency management, homeland security, and related fields. The curriculum covers topics such as the four phases of emergency management, homeland security foundations, government roles, risk assessment, crisis communication, and disaster planning.
Can I Earn a Homeland Security and Emergency Management Degree Online?
Yes, you can pursue a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management and Homeland Security degree online through Post University. The program is designed to provide an education in homeland security and emergency management in a flexible online format. Online students have access to the same curriculum, faculty support, and resources as on-campus students, allowing them to gain expertise in this field while balancing other commitments.
How Long Does It Take to Earn an Emergency Management and Homeland Security Degree?
The Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management and Homeland Security degree at Post University typically takes four years to complete. This duration is based on full-time enrollment and completion of the required coursework. However, students may have the option to accelerate their studies or take courses part-time, which could affect the overall time to degree completion.
What Does Homeland Security and Emergency Management Do?
Homeland security and emergency management professionals are responsible for protecting the nation and its people in times of crisis. They assess risks, develop plans, and coordinate responses to natural and human-caused disasters, such as terrorist attacks, hurricanes, wildfires, and pandemics. Their roles may involve preparing for emergencies, managing operations during an event, conducting recovery efforts afterward, and ensuring the safety and security of communities.
Who Is Responsible for Homeland Security and Emergency Management?
Homeland security and emergency management responsibilities are shared among various government agencies, including local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. In the United States, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) plays a central role in coordinating efforts to protect the nation from a wide range of threats, including terrorism, natural disasters, and other emergencies. Additionally, state and local emergency management agencies work collaboratively with DHS and other stakeholders to plan, prepare for, and respond to emergencies within their jurisdictions.
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