100% Online - This SUNY Canton degree can be earned entirely online.
Emergency Management - B.S.
Key Program Features
Our emergency management degree is unique because we combine theory, doctrine, and practice to focus on getting students experience with emergency planning, hazard assessment and mitigation, disaster response, and recovery. As one of only a few programs in the nation and a leading online emergency management degree program, we offer:
- 7-week sessions for most classes
- Flexible class modalities for non-traditional students and working adults
- Instruction from experienced emergency management faculty
- Internship opportunities at local, state and Federal agencies
SUNY Canton ranks on Forbes Advisor's List of Best Online Emergency Management Degrees
Experiential Education
Students take classes towards their degree in various subjects that use risk and disaster theory, doctrinal guidance, disaster case studies, and skills to not only understand the roles that emergency managers assume in municipalities and organizations, but to have the chance to demonstrate that knowledge in practical exercises and other classwork. Even though the degree can be completed fully online and asynchronously, students frequently interact with each other and their professors to ensure learning objectives and individual academic goals are met. Some practical activities include:
- Virtual disaster simulations
- Hazard assessments and mitigation planning strategies
- Emergency operations planning using real jurisdictions and organizations
- Written and verbal communications using disaster cases as context
- Writing and analysis of policies, procedures, and guidance
- Application of theory and doctrine to influence preparedness for all hazards
As a full-time, working paramedic at the time, SUNY Canton gave me the support and flexibility I needed to gain my emergency management degree and help bring my career to the next level. I am now using my degree and have a seat at the table with some of the biggest and best agencies and organizations in the field of emergency and disaster management.
- Max Sanchez '21
Disaster Program Manager, American Red Cross
Leaders Needed
Emergency Management professionals are sought after by local, state, and federal emergency management and homeland security agencies as well as hospitals and other private sector organizations. Other career opportunities are within criminal justice, fire service, and public health fields. Our graduates gain an advantage over other potential candidates without emergency management degrees as they enter the workforce.
The U.S. Dept. of Labor (DOL) says that Emergency Managers Median Pay level will be $60,000+ (for those obtaining a bachelor’s degree and having 5-years of related experience).
Employment statistics are from the Bureau of Labor Statistics 2020-2030 Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Online Advantages
The Emergency and Disaster Management degree is one of SUNY Canton's signature online programs. Students don't have to be on campus or travel to take classes during set hours. This allows flexibility for non-traditional students who may work or have other barriers to attending college classes. Students can participate at any hour and from anywhere and our modern learning management system facilitates the delivery of course materials, including lectures recorded by professors, and includes an easy-to-use mobile app.
Emergency Management
Jay Roorbach
Lecturer
roorbachj@canton.edu