Program Overview

Program Overview

The online Master of Arts in Emergency Management and Homeland Security with a concentration in Cybersecurity Policy and Management is designed to prepare professionals to address digital threats and strengthen resilience across organizations and communities. This program offers specialized training in cyber risk management, policy, and planning, and is ideal for those who hold or are pursuing operational responsibilities related to cyber vulnerabilities and attacks.

Program Details

• The program consists of 11 classes, each lasting 7.5 weeks, and requires a total of 33 credit hours to complete.
• The curriculum includes six core courses, two concentration courses, and electives, as well as an applied project.
• Core courses cover topics such as hazards governance, program evaluation, GIS for hazards analysis, applied data analysis, homeland security, and integrated emergency management.
• Concentration courses focus on U.S. cyber and information security policy and information assurance principles.

Admission Requirements

• Applicants must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program or in an applicable master's degree program.
• All applicants must submit:
  • Graduate application and application fee
  • Official transcripts
  • A professional resume
  • A written statement describing educational and career goals, as well as long-term professional development strategy
  • Two academic or professional letters of recommendation
• Applicants must also provide evidence of at least one of the following:
  • Current employment in emergency management, homeland security, cybersecurity, or a related field
  • At least two years of prior professional experience in a related field
  • A bachelor's degree in a related area

Career Opportunities

• The program prepares graduates for careers in hazard mitigation, emergency management, and risk management across all levels of government, as well as in nonprofit and private organizations.
• Potential career paths include:
  • Crisis manager
  • Emergency management director
  • Emergency preparedness coordinator or specialist
  • Information security analyst
  • Security operations center manager

Faculty and Accreditation

• The program is offered by the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions, which is a comprehensive public service college dedicated to addressing social problems through teaching, research, and service.
• The college is ranked #2 in the nation for graduate homeland security and emergency management programs, according to U.S. News & World Report.
• Faculty members are experienced professionals in the field, with expertise in areas such as child welfare, safety, city management, human trafficking, and water scarcity.

Tuition and Financial Aid

• The program offers a tuition calculator to estimate full-time or part-time tuition fees prior to any financial aid.
• Most students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs.
• The program also offers scholarships and other forms of financial assistance.