Emergency Planning and Response
The recent rise in environmental emergencies requires leaders who are equipped to handle risks, disasters, and recovery. In this master's degree concentration part of the Environmental Policy and Management program, you’ll train to mitigate and assess large-scale disasters and major environmental emergencies from initial response through to recovery. Be prepared to protect life, property, and business continuity while leading each step of a comprehensive emergency management plan. You’ll develop strategies to fortify community risk reduction preparedness and learn the essential communication and collaboration skills needed to effectively respond to environmental hazards, incidents, and disruptions.
At a Glance
Free Application
University College is committed to educational access, and given the difficult circumstances currently impacting millions of people, we are waiving application fees.
Skills You'll Learn
Identify, analyze, and respond to a variety of environmental emergencies
Lead a comprehensive emergency management plan from mitigation to response and recovery
Create and manage emergency mitigation plans
Curriculum
Master of Science in Environmental Policy and Management with a concentration in Emergency Planning and Response requires completion of 48 credit hours (12 courses).
All students are required to complete a zero-credit Student Success Course.
Sample Schedule
Plan out your schedule and determine your preferred timeline for completing your master's degree—finish in as few as 18 months or take up to five years.
| Year 1 | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classes | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Year 2 | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classes | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Year 1 | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classes | 1 | 2 | 1 | 2 |
| Year 2 | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classes | 1 | 2 | 1 | 2 |
Take a Course Before You Apply
We know how important it is to get started when you're ready and that's why you can enroll in a course before you officially apply.
Career Outcomes
Predicted outcomes for graduates of Emergency Planning and Response
From raging wildfires to natural disasters, it's currently a "very stressful environment" according to the American Red Cross, which requires expertise in environmental emergency preparedness to protect communities
Employment of emergency management directors is projected to grow 6% through 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
From emergency management specialists to public information officers, emergency management directors to business emergency operations specialist, careers in emergency and disaster management are in high-demand, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Job Titles
Emergency Management Specialist Salary: National Average
Get Ahead with Career Services
One-on-one career coaching and mock interviews
Job database dedicated to DU students and alumni
Résumé and cover letter guidance
Hear from Our Students
"I was already working in my field and I was loving my field and so, I wanted to continue to be on the ground, getting my hands dirty, making an impact while pursuing my master's at the same time." —Dayna Reggero, graduate.
Flexible Online Classes
We understand the demands of balancing work, friends and family, and school can be challenging. That's why at University College, you can complete your program entirely online. Our online learning platform makes it easy to work anywhere at any time.
Advisory Board
Our programs are developed and updated with the input of advisory boards composed of industry leaders and employers. This ensures that you'll learn what employers are looking for, and gain the most current information with a view to future industry trends, connecting you to future success.
Featured Instructors
Accreditation
University College programs maintain the highest level of accreditation offered by The Higher Learning Commission, one of the regional accrediting bodies recognized by the federal government. The University of Denver and all of its academic programs are regionally accredited by this commission, and regional accreditation is the highest standard for universities in the United States.