An online master’s degree in public safety management may provide individuals with the skills needed to maintain order in a time of crisis. In this one to two-year program, students may learn how to effectively identify potential workplace hazards, create public policies, and design and implement public safety programs. Program coursework may include electives in the student’s chosen specialization alongside major-specific classes including risk analysis, occupational safety, and environmental protection management.

Graduates of this program may either seek employment or enroll in a doctoral degree program. Master’s-level graduates may gain a career in security, law enforcement, public administration, emergency management, and government.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: Bachelor’s Degree
• Program Length: One to two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Employment or Doctoral Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 9% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum for master’s-level public safety management programs may include major coursework and electives in the student’s chosen specialty. These courses may teach students how to manage crisis situations, maintain a safe working environment, and coordinate emergency agencies during an emergency situation. Core online public safety management classes may include the following:

• Disaster Planning and Management
• Environmental Protection Management
• Risk Analysis
• Management Principles and Practices
• Police Executive Management
• Environmental Law and Enforcement
• Occupational Safety

Career Options

Master’s-level graduates may gain employment in law enforcement, emergency management, fire safety, homeland security, and government agencies. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational health and safety specialist employment opportunities are projected to increase by 9% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Emergency Manager
• Homeland Security Analyst
• Forensic Investigator
• Police Captain
• Fire Chief

Continuing Education

Those who successfully complete a master’s degree may have the opportunity to advance their studies by enrolling in a doctoral program. A doctoral degree in public safety management may provide enhanced leadership and emergency management skills.

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