By Kelley Jacobs
October 2015

50 Most Affordable Schools for an Emergency Management Degree 2015

In this ranking, we highlight the 50 most affordable accredited schools offering an emergency management degree.

The demand for trained professionals in the field of emergency management has steadily increased since the attacks on September 11, 2001. Both public and private sector organizations are spending more money on emergency management. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an employment growth of 22% between 2008 and 2018 in emergency management related positions. Government entities and organizations want to hire highly trained and educated professionals, so earning a degree in an emergency management related field is essential to successfully compete in the job market.

More and more colleges and universities are offering degrees in emergency management. These degrees prepare students for careers as Emergency Management Specialists, Homeland Security Officers, Emergency Dispatchers, and Hospital Emergency Preparedness Administrators.

Methodology

We recognize that cost is often an important factor in selecting a program, so using the NCES College Navigator Database, we have compiled a list of the least expensive bachelor degree programs in the area of emergency management. All institutions in this list are accredited and provide a quality program related to emergency management. Program offerings may be online, on campus or as a hybrid. Below is our list, which includes the net price as indicated in College Navigator. Schools are presented in descending order of net price.

Ranking the 50 Most Affordable Emergency Management Degree Programs

#50 – Saint Louis University-Saint Louis, Missouri

Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management

School Profile
Tuition: $33,812

Saint Louis University offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management which produces professionals who help communities prepare, prevent, respond to and recover from all types of disasters and emergencies. SLU offers a pre-med track for those professionals considered medical school. Students can elect to take honors courses or pursue a minor in Emergency Management. Students benefit from a mix of emergency management and public health courses taught by faculty who are experienced in their field.

Accreditation:

Saint Louis University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission.

#49 – Immaculata University-Immaculata, Pennsylvania

Bachelor of Science in Emergency Planning and Management

School Profile
Tuition: $30,947

Immaculata University offers the only Emergency Planning and Management bachelor degree program in the region. The program is recognized by FEMA and is designed for the working adult through an accelerated delivery, blended format. Courses are between seven and eight weeks in length allowing students to complete their degree in about two years if they attend year round. The program is offered at several different university locations and credit can be awarded for prior learning.

Accreditation:

Immaculata University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

#48 – Adelphi University-Garden City, New York

Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management

School Profile
Tuition: $25,441

Adelphi University offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management which is offered online or as an online/live course combination format. The program prepares students for a career in emergency management as a policy officer, EMT, paramedic or other professional role. The program accepts up to 60 credit hours of prior learning for those who have completed EMT/paramedic courses, military training and policy academy courses. The program can be completed in as few as four semesters of study.

Accreditation:

Adelphi University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

#47 – Barry University-Miami, Florida

Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management

School Profile
Tuition: $24,610

Barry University offers an accredited online accredited Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management. The program provides a solid foundation for advanced training or graduate study. Students benefit from BU’s innovative curriculum that incorporates coursework from areas like public administration, sociology, management and health sciences. Students have gone on to find employment in homeland security, business continuity, hazard mitigation and international disaster management. The program can be completed in 120 credit hours

Accreditation:

Barry University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

#46 – Trine University-Peoria, Arizona

Bachelor of Science with a major in Emergency Management

School Profile
Tuition: $23,802

Trine University offers a 120 credit hour Bachelor of Science with a major in Emergency Management. The program curriculum follows guidelines set by FEMA. The program is designed for working professionals interested in advancing in a career working in homeland security, emergency management and other emergency areas. Students with documented academy or military training can transfer up to 18 credit hours toward their degree. Graduates of Trine have gone on to work in police departments, military service, and the federal government.

Accreditation:

Trine University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission.

#45 – Union Institute and University-Cincinnati, Ohio

Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Emergency Services Management

School Profile
Tuition: $23,143

Union Institute and University offers a hybrid program in Emergency Services Management with concentrations available in Criminal Justice Management or Leadership. Students learn to prepare for and respond to emergencies through education and training opportunities. Graduates have gone on to pursue professional careers as border patrol agents, fish and game wardens, federal air marshals and FBI agents. The program offers flexible options to attend courses online or in person to meet the needs of busy professionals.

Accreditation:

Union Institute and University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission.

#44 – Post University-Waterbury, Connecticut

Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management and Homeland Security

School Profile
Tuition: $22,714

The Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management and Homeland Security degree from Post University includes concentrations in either Criminal Justice Leadership or Policy. Post offers students the opportunity to complete an internship and the ability to complete simulated disaster scenarios. One of the program goals is to immerse students in modern methodologies in areas related to homeland security. Students learn to prepare and respond to terrorism as well as learn to assess risks and vulnerabilities.

Accreditation:

Post University is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Commission on Institutions of Higher Education.

#43 – Franklin University-Columbus, Ohio

Bachelor’s Degree in Emergency Management and Homeland Security

School Profile
Tuition: $21,927

Franklin University offers a Bachelor’s Degree in Emergency Management and Homeland Security. The program is offered entirely online or at select Midwestern locations. Students are engaged in hands on learning experienced through this continuously evolving program. Professionals interested in leadership and management careers in emergency management will benefit from coursework that emphasizes leadership training and development. Students learn from faculty who have industry experience as leaders in emergency management.

Accreditation:

Franklin University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission.

#42 – Crown College, School of Online Studies- Saint Bonifacius, Minnesota

Bachelor of Science in Disaster and Emergency Management

School Profile
Tuition: $21,840

Students interested in emergency management from a Christ centered institution may be interested in the Bachelor of Science in Disaster and Emergency Management degree program at Crown College. The program can be completed entirely online and gives students a faith based perspective toward emergency management. Program curriculum focuses on Disaster/Emergency Management, General Education, and Christian Studies. Students can earn their degree by completing 125-131 credits.

Accreditation:

Crown College is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission.

#41 – Pennsylvania College of Technology-Williamsport, Pennsylvania

Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management Technology (BEM)

School Profile
Tuition: $21,513

The 125 credit hour Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management Technology offered by Penn College of Technology is a good choice for experienced professionals or those looking to enter the field of emergency management. The curriculum emphasizes instruction on the 4 Phases of Emergency Management and the National Information Management System (NIMS) which is required of most emergency management positions. Students benefit from internship opportunities that provide the opportunity for relevant experience. Credits are considered for life experience and/or prior work experience.

Accreditation:

Pennsylvania College of Technology is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

#40 – Kansas Wesleyan University-Salina, Kansas

Bachelor of Arts in Emergency Management with a Homeland Security, Victims Services and Nongovernmental Organizations Track

School Profile
Tuition: $21,390

Kansas Wesleyan offers an Bachelor of Arts in Emergency Management. The program is the only four year degree program in emergency management in the state of Kansas. The program provides a Christian centered approach to emergency management principles and application. Students benefit from hands on training and the ability to take courses either online or on campus. Class size is small which allows for individualized attention throughout the program. Kansas Wesleyan is ranked #8 in the “20 Top Best Affordable Emergency Management Programs” by 2014 Emergency Management Degree Program Guide.

Accreditation:

Kansas Wesleyan University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission.

#39 – Metropolitan College of New York-New York, New York

Bachelor of Arts in Emergency Management and Business Continuity

School Profile
Tuition: $21,323

Metro College of NY offers a Bachelor of Arts in Emergency Management and Business Continuity for students already working in the field of Emergency Management or those just starting out. Graduates go on to work in a wide variety of areas such as law enforcement, emergency management, corporate security and public safety. The program meetings the needs of those needing 60 credit hours for admission to the NYPD Police Academy or the NYFD Fire Academy. Students are able to earn on-site certifications through their coursework, complete internships and participate in city wide emergency management exercises.

Accreditation:

Metropolitan College of New York is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

#38 – Drury University-Springfield, Missouri

Bachelor of Science degree in Emergency Management

School Profile
Tuition: $20,999

Drury University currently offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Emergency Management. The major requires 51 credit hours of coursework that can be completed online. Courses include Disaster Response, Disaster Recovery, and Social Aspects of Disaster. The curriculum blends theory with professional practice and application. Students are able to complete an internship to gain experience in the field. Drury provides a well-rounded learning experience that benefits professionals looking to advance or those looking to change career paths.

Accreditation:

Drury University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission.

#37 – Grand Canyon University-Phoenix, Arizona

Bachelor of Science in Public Safety and Emergency Management Program

School Profile
Tuition: $19,761

Grand Canyon University offers a degree for those already working or wanting to pursue a degree in Emergency Management. The Bachelor of Science in Public Safety and Emergency Management Program provides students with a theoretical and applied approach to emergency management. The program is offered online and boasts small class size for personal attention. Coursework highlights the application of research methodology in relevant emergency management situations.

Accreditation:

Grand Canyon University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission.

#36 – Waldorf College-Forest City, Iowa

Bachelor of Arts in Emergency Management

School Profile
Tuition: $19,521

Waldorf College offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Emergency Management. Students complete coursework in areas such as terrorism, management, and leadership. Waldorf offers a concentration in either Homeland Security or Fire Science. Students can typically complete the entire program in four years of full-time study. Prior to graduation, students complete a capstone project to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding in emergency management.

Accreditation:

Waldorf College is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission.

#35- Virginia Commonwealth University-Richmond, Virginia

Bachelor of Arts in Homeland Security and Emergency Management

School Profile
Tuition: $19,335

Virginia Commonwealth prepares students for an emergency management career in both the private and public sector through the Bachelor of Arts in Homeland Security and Emergency Management. Students are educated in emergency planning, management, terrorist threats, and ethical and constitutional issues. Working professionals are able to apply this coursework to their existing positions to gain advancement or job stability. Those new to the field will achieve a solid foundation to launch an effective professional career or pursue graduate study.

Accreditation:

Virginia Commonwealth University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges

#34 – Bethel University-McKenzie, Tennessee

Bachelor’s Degree in Emergency Services Management

School Profile
Tuition: $19,267

Bethel University offers an online Bachelor’s Degree in Emergency Services Management. The program accepts up to 80 hours of prior undergraduate credit which can include Academy training and/or military service. The program is specially designed for the working professional with college experience. Coursework includes Survey of Emergency Management, Terrorism in the Modern World, and Homeland Security Law.

Accreditation:

Bethel University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

#33 – Purdue University Global

Bachelor of Science in Fire and Emergency Management

 

School Profile
Tuition: $18,419

Purdue University Global offers an online Bachelor of Science degree in Fire and Emergency Management. The program is recognized by the United States Fire Administration as an official Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education (FESHE) institution. The program is designed for emergency services personnel who want to increase their leadership and management skills in the field. The program can be completed in as little as two years if the student has already obtained their Associates Degree.

Accreditation:

Purdue University Global is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission.

#32 – Anderson University-Anderson, South Carolina

Bachelor of Emergency Management Services

School Profile
Tuition: $18,051

Anderson University is ranked as in the list of “Best Colleges” by U. S. News and World Report as well as by the Princeton Review. Anderson offers both an online and on campus Bachelor of Emergency Services Management degree. The program is open to those with and without an Associates Degree. Students benefit from the opportunity to complete an internship in the field and gain hands on experience. Coursework in EMS includes emergency, safety and disaster management, emergency services technology, public administration and leadership.

Accreditation:

Anderson University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

#31 – Embry Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide-Daytona Beach, Florida

Bachelor of Science in Emergency Services

School Profile
Tuition: $17,830

The Bachelor of Science in Emergency Services from Embry Riddle Worldwide offers a curriculum that is based on the National Fire Academy’s Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education Model Curriculum for this degree level. Students are able to earn their National Fire Academy certificate through this program. ERAU offers two different specializations including Aviation Emergency Management and Fire and Emergency Services. The program can be completed by taking 120 credit hours and is available online.

Accreditation:

Embry Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

#29 – Upper Iowa University-Fayette, Iowa

Bachelor of Science in Emergency and Disaster Management

School Profile
Tuition: $17,513

Upper Iowa University offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency and Disaster Management that can be completed either online or at one of the institutions Centers. Students complete 54 credit hours in the major which includes coursework in Management Principles, Urban Management, Psychology of Disaster and Disaster Response and Recovery. Prior to graduation, candidates complete a senior project which provides students the opportunity to complete a focused project. Upper Iowa University appears in U.S. News and World Report in it’s ranking of “Best Online Programs” for 2015.

Accreditation:

Upper Iowa University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission.

#28 – Western Illinois University-Macomb, Illinois

Bachelor of Science Degree in Emergency Management

School Profile
Tuition: $16,829

Western Illinois University offers a Bachelor of Science Degree in Emergency Management which prepares students for a career in consulting, humanitarian aid, volunteer coordinator or as an emergency responder at the local, state, or federal level. Eligible students may participate in the honors program. Students have the opportunity to participate in the campus chapter of the Illinois Emergency Services Management Association for networking and professional development opportunities.

Accreditation:

Western Illinois University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission.

#27 – Ohio Christian University-Circleville, Ohio

BA in Emergency & Disaster Management and Business

School Profile
Tuition: $16,414

Ohio Christian University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Emergency and Disaster Management and Business. This unique double major prepares graduates to work in both emergency/disaster management and business environments. In additional to traditional coursework, students have the opportunity to attend a Business Roundtable with business professionals, participate in a career development practicum, and hear from experts in the field through the Distinguished Speakers Series

Accreditation:

Ohio Christian University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission and by the Association for Biblical Higher Education, Commission on Accreditation.

#26 – University of Akron-Akron, Ohio

Bachelor of Science Degree in Emergency Management and Homeland Security

School Profile
Tuition: $16,111

The University of Akron offers the only Bachelor of Science Degree in Emergency Management and Homeland Security in the state and the only program accredited by the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress. Faculty are nationally recognized in areas of public administration, fire protection and emergency management. Students have the opportunity to engage in hands on activities with local agencies such as the Red Cross. Internships are strongly encouraged to allow students professional experience in the field.

Accreditation:

University of Akron is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission.

#25 – Voorhees College-Denmark, South Carolina

Bachelor of Science or Minor in Emergency Management

School Profile
Tuition: $15,136

The 125 credit hour Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management degree at Voorhees College prepares students for an exciting and diverse career in emergency management. Students in the program are prepared to work in areas of mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery. Faculty are experience in the field and provide educational and professional guidance to their students. The major requires 36 credit hours of emergency management coursework.

Accreditation:

Voorhees College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

#24 – North Dakota University-Fargo, North Dakota

Bachelor of Science Degree in Emergency Management

School Profile
Tuition: $14,249

North Dakota University offers a Bachelor of Science Degree in Emergency Management. The program offers several minors for students to dive deeper into specific areas of interest including Comprehensive Emergency Management, Preparedness and Response, Mitigation and Recovery, and International Emergency Management. Students have the opportunity to complete an internship and participate in volunteer work to gain experience and apply what they have learned in the classroom. North Dakota University offers both a Masters and Doctorate program for students wishing to continue their education beyond the Bachelor degree level.

Accreditation:

North Dakota State University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission.

#23 – Madonna University-Livonia, Michigan

Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management

School Profile
Tuition: $13,738

The Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management program from Madonna University was created to respond to an increase in demand for qualified emergency management professionals. The program offers courses in Fire and Arson Investigation, Criminal Investigation, and Psychology of Traumatic Experiences. The program culminates with a research paper that demonstrates knowledge gained throughout the program.

Accreditation:

Madonna University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission.

#22 – Idaho State University Meridian-Pocatello, Idaho

Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management

School Profile

Tuition: $13,695

The Emergency Management Program at Idaho State University offers online classes with live interaction. Faculty are experts in the field with years of experience at all leadership levels. Students benefit from low, in-state tuition rates for this online program regardless of location. The curriculum follows the FEMA Higher Education curriculum guidelines which ensure students receive a well rounded education experience. The program boasts that 100% of last years graduates are either employed or continuing their education.

Accreditation:

Idaho State University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

#21 – University of Central Missouri-Warrensburg, Missouri

Bachelor of Science Degree in Crisis and Disaster Management

School Profile
Tuition: $13,606

The University of Central Missouri offers a Bachelor of Science Degree in Crisis and Disaster Management that can be completed on campus or entirely online. Students have a wide variety of professional backgrounds as some are new to the field and some are looking to advance. Students participate in both a field exercise and a practicum experience. Concentrations are available in Emergency Management, Emergency Services Management, Hazardous Materials or Business Continuity.

Accreditation:

University of Central Missouri is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission.

#20 – Jacksonville State University-Jacksonville, Alabama

Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management with a Minor in Homeland Security or Public Safety Telecommunications

School Profile
Tuition: $13,304

Jacksonville State University is a four year, public institution located in Alabama. Students have the opportunity to earn a Bachelor of Science Degree in Emergency Management to prepare for a career in the public, private and non-profit sectors. Students have the opportunity to complete a minor in Homeland Security or Public Safety Telecommunications. Courses include Disaster Mitigation and Preparedness, Populations and Risk, and Disaster Response and Recovery.

Accreditation:

Jacksonville State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

#19 – Massachusetts Maritime Academy-Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts

Bachelor of Science Degree in Emergency Management

School Profile

Tuition: $13,246

Massachusetts Maritime Academy offers a Bachelor of Science Degree in Emergency Management that emphasizes coastal and port security. An Emergency Management Simulator is incorporated into coursework for activities such as simulating a major fire in a port or an oil spill along the coastline. Students utilize state of the art software and computer programming to prepare for a hurricane or begin the recovery process. Graduates are prepared to respond to both man-made and natural disasters.

Accreditation:

Massachusetts Maritime Academy is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Commission on Institutions of Higher Education.

#18 – Northern Arizona University-Flagstaff, Arizona

Bachelor of Applied Science in Emergency Management

School Profile
Tuition: $12,946

Northern Arizona University offers an in-person and online Emergency Management degree. Graduates are prepared to work in private, public and non-profit sectors or continue on to graduate school. Those with previous educational, training or certification in EMS may be eligible for the 90/30 degree plan which reduces the number of courses needed at NAU to complete the degree.

Accreditation:

North Arizona University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission.

#17 – Western Carolina University-Cullowhee, North Carolina

Online Bachelor of Science Degree in Emergency and Disaster Management

School Profile
Tuition: $12,916

Western Carolina University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Emergency and Disaster Management (EDM). The program is for those who have already completed their Associates Degree and who want a career in government or as a consultant focused on business continuity or emergency management. Sessions are eight weeks in duration with two sessions each semester. Western Carolina University offers an online Student Center, a virtual emergency exercise, online speakers and active group discussions through state of the art technology. Students pursuing their degree full time can complete in two years of study.

Accreditation:

Western Carolina University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

#16 – Thomas Edison State University-Trenton, New Jersey

BS in Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness

School Profile
Tuition: $12,470

Thomas Edison State University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness. The program emphasizes policy, preparation, response and recovery within the scope of a man-made or natural disaster. The program is ideal for adults interested in homeland security and emergency preparedness. Offered completely online, the program can be completed in two years of full time study. Students have the opportunity to complete a capstone project in their final semester of study to demonstrate and apply their knowledge and understanding of emergency management.

Accreditation:

Thomas Edison State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

#15 – Arizona State University-Phoenix, Arizona

Public Service and Public Policy – Emergency Management and Homeland Security (BS)

School Profile
Tuition: $12,358

Arizona State University offers an online bachelors degree in public service and public policy with a concentration in emergency management and homeland security. Students learn to both mitigate and respond to a variety of disasters. The concentration includes coursework in Police Accountability, Cyber Terrorism and Domestic Terrorism. Students need 120 credit hours to complete the degree with a minimum of 30 to be completed at ASU.

Accreditation:

Arizona State University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission.

#14 – State University of New York (SUNY) Canton-Canton, New York

Bachelor of Technology in Emergency and Disaster Management Online

School Profile
Tuition: $11,884

The State University of New York (SUNY) at Canton offers a fully accredited Bachelor of Technology in Emergency and Disaster Management offered either online or on campus. The program began in 2006. On campus students participate in the Emergency Management Club and the International Emergency Management Student Association and are engaged in professional and networking opportunities with the Department of Homeland Security, the Coast Guard, Customs and Border Protection and numerous other local, state and federal agencies. Students have the opportunity to complete a professional internship in the field if they are not currently working in the field.

Accreditation:

SUNY Canton is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

#13 – Bellevue University-Bellevue, Nebraska

Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management

School Profile
Tuition: $11,786

Bellevue University offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management through a building block approach. Students become familiar with a multitude of emergency situations. Students learn strategies to aid with response and recovery. The program follows a cohort model with courses offered online and in person. Prior to graduation, students complete a capstone project which allows them to demonstrate their knowledge using an sample scenario.

Accreditation:

Bellevue University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission.

#12 – West Texas A&M University-Canyon, Texas

Emergency Management Administration Bachelor of Applied Arts and Science

School Profile
Tuition: $11,754

West Texas A&M University offers an accredited Emergency Management Administration Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences degree that can be completed entirely online. The program is open to both full-time and part-time students with an Associates Degree to accommodate working professionals. The program is a professional emergency management program with a public administration curriculum which prepares students for careers as firefighters, police officers, military personnel, and emergency-services professionals. West Texas A&M is ranked by both U.S. New and World Report and the Princeton Review.

Accreditation:

West Texas A&M University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

#11 – Arkansas State University-Jonesboro, Arkansas

Bachelor of Science in Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management

School Profile
Tuition: $11,499

Arkansas State University offers an accredited online Bachelor of Science in Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management. Students are required to complete 120 credit hours of coursework with 25 of those hours being in an emphasis area within the program. Courses include Extradition Tactics for Civil Disorder in Disasters and Emergencies, Initial Response to Suicide Bomb Attacks, and Radiological Emergencies. Students may obtain up to 30 credit hours through a prior learning assessment.

Accreditation:

Arkansas State University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission.

#10 – University of Nebraska At Omaha-Omaha, Nebraska

Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management

School Profile
Tuition: $19,979

The University of Nebraska’s Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management is designed using standards from the NFPA 1600 Standard on Disaster/Emergency Management and Business Continuity Programs. The mission of the program is to educate and train the future leaders in Emergency Services. The program fosters the development of ethics, honesty and integrity in areas of emergency management.

Accreditation:

The University of Nebraska at Omaha is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission.

#9 – University of North Texas-Denton, Texas

Bachelor of Science program in Emergency Administration and Planning

School Profile
Tuition: $10,827

The University of North Texas was the first institution in the country to offer a Bachelor of Science program in Emergency Administration and Planning. Students benefit from hands on learning though internships (for those without prior experience) and community volunteer opportunities. Students have the opportunity to engage in disaster drills, disaster planning and post disaster assessments. Study abroad opportunities are available.

Accreditation:

University of North Texas is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

#8 – Northwest Missouri State University-Maryville, Missouri

Bachelors Degree in Emergency and Disaster Management

School Profile
Tuition: $10,825

Northwest Missouri State University offers a Bachelors Degree in Emergency and Disaster Management focused on emergency management, mitigation and humanitarian relief. Students complete a three-day intensive disaster relief training exercise, a four-day simulated humanitarian deployment opportunity, and the opportunity to become a certified responder through the Campus Community Emergency Response Team training. Students also have the opportunity to study abroad.

Accreditation:

Northwest Missouri State University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission.

#7 – Eastern New Mexico University-Portales, New Mexico

Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences, Emergency Management and Fire and Emergency Services Administration

School Profile
Tuition: $10,428

Eastern New Mexico University offers a Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in two relevant areas of study including Emergency Management and Fire and Emergency Services Administration. The program is offered online for working professionals who want to advance in the field. Students may being taking courses throughout the year. Prior to graduation, students are required to complete a capstone project to demonstrate knowledge learned throughout the program.

Accreditation:

Eastern New Mexico University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission.

#6 – Jackson State University-Jackson, Mississippi

Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management Technology

School Profile
Tuition: $10,417

Jackson State University offers a major in Emergency Management Technology. The program can be completed online or on campus. The curriculum focuses on planning and response, leadership, management and needs assessment to help plan for and assess a disaster. The program can be completed by taking 124 credit hours which includes a special project that students complete prior to graduation. Coursework includes Industrial Hygiene, Risk Assessment, Disaster Management, and Labor and Industrial Relations. The program provides a global outlook on emergency management.

Accreditation:

Jackson State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

#5 – Savannah State University-Savannah, Georgia

Homeland Security and Emergency Management Bachelor of Arts Degree

School Profile
Tuition: $9,894

Savannah State University offers the only Homeland Security and Emergency Management bachelors degree program in the state of Georgia and the only one offered at a Historically Black College/University. The program prepares graduates to work in both the private and public sector as a leader in the area of emergency management. The curriculum incorporates current and developing research trends in the field to make sure students are taught current and relevant skills and techniques. The program can be completed in 125 credit hours.

Accreditation:

Savannah State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

#4 – Arkansas Tech University-Russellville, Arkansas

Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management

School Profile
Tuition: $9,630

Arkansas Tech University offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management that can be completed either on-campus or online. Students learn emergency management skills as they relate to social and natural sciences, while also gaining administrative skills. The program utilizes advanced technology which allows students to be fully engaged in the virtual space. Students are able to gain hands on experience through a six credit hour practicum and a six credit hour (150 clock hour) externship.

Accreditation:

Arkansas Tech University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission.

#3 – American Public University-Charles Town, West Virginia

Bachelor of Arts in Emergency and Disaster Management

School Profile
Tuition: $9,572

American Public University prepares students for positions in emergency management and public safety by offering a Bachelor of Arts in Emergency and Disaster Management. This online program is recognized by the Foundation of Higher Education for Disaster and Emergency Management and Homeland Security. Many of the faculty at board-certifiedertified emergency managers. Students are able to complete the program in four years of full time study (122 credit hours).

Accreditation:

American Public University is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, The Higher Learning Commission.

#2 – University of Alaska-Fairbanks, Alaska

Bachelor of Emergency Management

School Profile
Tuition: $8,383

The University of Alaska at Fairbanks offers students the opportunity to earn a Bachelor of Emergency Management degree either online or on-campus. Students can select from three different concentrations including Emergency Management, Fire Administration, and Homeland Security. Students benefit from small class size and relevant student organizations including the International Association of Emergency Managers. The program can typically be completed in four years. UAF has an on campus fire station which is staffed by student employees.

Accreditation:

University of Alaska Fairbanks is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

#1 – Utah Valley University-Orem, Utah

Bachelor of Science in Emergency Services Administration-Emergency Management

School Profile
Tuition: $6,766

Utah Valley University offers a web-based Bachelor of Science in Emergency Services Administration-Emergency Management degree. Courses are offered in a block schedule format where each course lasts seven and a half weeks. Students are able to select from two concentrations including Emergency Management or Emergency Care. Those students with relevant work experience may qualify to receive college credit for those experiences or certifications. Students can typically complete the program in two to three years of study.

Accreditation:

Utah Valley University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.