Master of Science in Public Safety Administration

Program Overview

The Public Safety Administration M.S. The program emphasizes real-world education, small class sizes, and a career-focused curriculum. Graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge to manage various public safety services and pursue careers in law enforcement, corrections, homeland security, and other related fields.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Objectives:

• Develop an understanding of contemporary public safety management practices and responsibilities.
• Review theories and practices related to risk management and emergency management.
• Develop solutions for public safety problems.

Key Features:

• Real-world education: Experienced faculty with expertise in public safety leadership.
• Small class sizes: Facilitate group interaction and dynamic learning.
• Accelerated course formats: Convenient for working professionals.
• Best practice training: Develop strong organizational and management skills.
• Approaches to risk and crisis management: Enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Financial, budget, and data analysis: Equip students with essential leadership skills.

Outline:

The program curriculum comprises 10 courses (30 credit hours), encompassing various aspects of public safety management:

• PSAM 501: Introduction to Public Safety Administration
• PSAM 502: Legal Aspects of Public Safety
• PSAM 503: Public Safety Leadership
• PSAM 504: Risk Management and Emergency Planning
• PSAM 505: Public Safety Operations
• PSAM 506: Public Safety Finance and Budgeting
• PSAM 508: Community Relations and Public Safety
• PSAM 509: Research Methods in Public Safety
• PSAM 510: Public Safety Internship (optional)

Course Schedule:

• 8-week sessions: Fall, Spring, Summer
• **New cohorts start every six weeks.

Modules:

Each module focuses on specific areas of public safety management:

• Module 1: Introduction to Public Safety Administration: Explores the history, principles, and contemporary issues in public safety.
• Module 2: Legal Aspects of Public Safety: Examines the legal framework governing public safety agencies and operations.
• Module 6: Public Safety Finance and Budgeting: Addresses budgeting principles, financial management, and resource allocation in public safety organizations.
• Module 8: Community Relations and Public Safety: Emphasizes the importance of community engagement and collaboration in public safety.
• Module 9: Research Methods in Public Safety: Equips students with the knowledge and skills to conduct research and analyze data relevant to public safety issues.
• Module 10: Public Safety Internship (optional): Provides practical experience in a public safety setting.

Assessment:

Assessment methods vary across modules and may include:

• Exams: Midterm and final exams to assess knowledge and understanding of key concepts.
• Presentations: Opportunities to showcase research findings and engage in critical discussion.
• Case studies: Analyze real-world scenarios to develop decision-making skills in public safety contexts.
• Participation: Active involvement in class discussions and collaborative activities.

Grading criteria:

• A: 90-100%
• B: 80-89%
• C: 70-79%
• D: 60-69%
• F: Below 60%

Teaching:

Teaching methods:

• Interactive lectures: Engaging presentations with opportunities for active student participation.
• Case studies and simulations: Apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios.
• Group discussions and projects: Collaborative learning and teamwork development.
• Guest speakers: Industry professionals sharing insights and experiences.
• Online resources: Access to online learning materials, discussions, and communication tools.

Faculty:

• Experienced and accomplished professionals with expertise in public safety, law enforcement, emergency management, and related fields.
• Faculty members actively involved in research and consulting, bringing real-world knowledge to the classroom.

Unique approaches:

• Cohort-based learning: A supportive community of classmates sharing a common goal.
• Flexibility: Online options for working professionals to balance studies with career commitments.
• Career-focused curriculum: Equips students with the skills and knowledge needed for success in various public safety leadership roles.

Careers:

Graduates of the Public Safety Administration program are prepared for careers in various sectors, including:

• Local Law Enforcement: Police chiefs, patrol officers, detectives, and other law enforcement positions.
• Corrections: Wardens, rehabilitation officers, and parole officers.
• Federal Law Enforcement: Federal agents, customs and border protection officers, and other federal law enforcement roles.
• Probation and Parole: Probation officers, parole officers, and program administrators.
• Homeland Security: Homeland security analysts, emergency management specialists, and other homeland security positions.

Additional career opportunities:

• Emergency Medical Services: EMTs, paramedics, and emergency medical dispatchers.
• Private Security: Security managers, loss prevention specialists, and private investigators.
• Nonprofit Organizations: Program directors, grant writers, and public safety educators.

Career outcomes:

• **Graduates have reported securing positions in various public safety agencies and organizations.

• **The program emphasizes developing leadership skills, critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities, enhancing graduates' career prospects.

Other:

• 100% online option available: Accommodates students with busy schedules.
• First Responders discount: 20% tuition discount and deferred tuition for six weeks after each class.
• **International students welcome.