An online bachelor’s degree in public safety management may equip individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to work in the public safety field. In this four-year program, students may master skills such as strategic planning, risk management, public policy development, and program management. Program coursework may include general coursework alongside major-specific courses including public safety leadership, public safety management, and public safety legal issues.

Upon completion of the program, students may either seek entry-level employment or enroll in a graduate degree program. Baccalaureate-level graduates may seek employment in healthcare, government programs, law enforcement, emergency management, and private security.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: High School Diploma or GED
• Program Length: Four years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Entry-Level Employment or Master’s / Doctoral Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 9% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum for baccalaureate-level public safety management programs may include general education requirements along with core classes. These classes may teach students how to develop policy plans, communicate effectively, and make informed and ethical decisions. Core public safety management classes may include the following:

• Introduction to Public Safety Management
• Contemporary Public Safety Practices
• Public Safety Planning
• Public Safety Legal Issues
• Public Safety Research and Technology
• Public Safety Administration Ethics
• Public Safety Leadership

Career Options

Baccalaureate-level graduates may seek employment in law enforcement, healthcare, government agencies, fire service, and non-profit organizations. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, occupational health and safety employment is projected to increase by 9% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Public Safety Training Analyst
• Public Safety Officer
• Operations Manager
• Safety Supervisor
• Environmental Protection Officer

Continuing Education

Those who successfully complete a baccalaureate degree program may have the opportunity to further their studies by enrolling in a graduate degree program. A graduate degree in public safety management may provide students with enhanced leadership, decision-making, and project management skills.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook