How Do I Know if Emergency Management is the Right Degree Path for Me? – Emergency Management Degree Program Guide

May 1, 2018

Pursuing academic studies in emergency management may not be the most common or conventional degree path, but it can lead to a professionally and financially rewarding career. Even though it is a relatively niche occupation, there is a growing demand for qualified emergency managers in both the public and the private sector. Managing an emergency can make the difference between a minor accident and a major disaster, as well as impact the lives and livelihood of everyone involved. Individuals interested in following this degree and career path should be prepared to grow and adapt according to the demands of their specific job.

Beneficial Skills and Traits

The final result of an emergency manager’s work revolves around helping as many people as possible during crisis situations. While the day-to-day work can be mundane at times, emergency personnel also need to be highly motivated and able to exert themselves during long work hours when emergencies actually occur. Successful emergency management specialists need to have a strong sense of personal responsibility, sound judgment and ability to communicate effectively with various parties. Managers often coordinate and oversee relief efforts, so they need to account for logistical, personnel and practical concerns.

Areas of Interest

Anyone considering obtaining a degree in emergency management should start thinking about the type of work environment that appeals to them. Some positions require a lot of direct management and personal involvement, while others focus on creating broader policies or assessing the overall impact of a crisis. Understanding personal occupational goals allows students to focus their coursework and internships on their particular area of interest. Almost all emergency managers face potentially stressful situations during their job, so maintaining a balance between work and life is also essential.

Academic and Professional Development

A degree in emergency management is the most straight-forward way to prepare for a career in the field. Some specialists also leverage training, certification and prior work experience in urgent care or crisis management when applying for positions. Students on this degree path should seek out opportunities to gain practical experience through internships or volunteer opportunities to build their resume while they finish school. A bachelor’s degree is sufficient for eligibility for most entry-level and senior positions, although some professionals eventually continue their education by pursuing an advanced degree.

Career Information

The comparatively low visibility of emergency management careers combined with a growing demand for experienced professionals makes it a solid choice for many students. The salary for emergency managers heavily depends on the employer, prior work experience and demands of the position. Emergency management directors earned a median wage of around $73,000 in 2017 with a faster than average job growth outlook through 2026, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Planning hurricane evacuation routes, preparing for nuclear plant accidents and coordinating disaster relief efforts are just a few of the essential duties that emergency specialists face. The emergency management degree path is not always simple or easy, but a career in the field offers numerous opportunities to make a positive difference during a worst-case scenario.