Master of Professional Studies in Emergency Management

All tuition is charged by the credit hour, and we have minimal fees. Visit our tuition page to see our current tuition rates and use our net price calculator.

We strive to make higher education affordable by offering 20% discounts, financial aid, and credit for work and life experience. Learn about financial aid, discounts, and scholarship opportunities to fund your master's in Emergency Management today.

Students applying to the MPS in Emergency Management program must hold a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university. Applications to the program must include the following:

• A statement of 250-500 words discussing their background beyond academic coursework, and how the program will assist them to achieve professional objectives.
• Official college transcripts from each college attended. Typically, successful applicants will have at least a "B+" (3.00) average in all coursework taken.

Applicants may be conditionally admitted and allowed to take one class in their first semester, in which a B or better must be earned to be fully admitted to the program. Students who do not meet the 3.00 grade point average in their undergraduate coursework but who possess sufficient professional experience in the security studies field may be admitted provisionally into the program.

Completed applications are reviewed by the MPS in Emergency Management Director, Dr. Michael Wallace, and the Admissions Committee throughout the year.

To begin the admissions process, complete the online application.

Students in good standing may petition to transfer a maximum of nine credit hours (three courses) of graduate coursework from other colleges or universities to the MPS degree. However, only courses with grades of B or better, completed within five years of enrolling in the MPS program, may be considered for transfer credit.

A master’s in emergency management is a graduate-level degree that prepares students to plan for, respond to, and recover from disasters, crises, and public emergencies. This interdisciplinary program covers risk assessment, crisis communication, disaster response coordination, and resilience planning. Graduates often work in government agencies, healthcare organizations, nonprofits, and private-sector companies to develop policies and strategies that minimize the impact of disasters and improve community safety.

To enter the field of emergency management, aspiring professionals typically need a background in public administration, homeland security, public health, or a related discipline. A bachelor’s degree is often the first step, followed by relevant work experience in areas such as emergency services, law enforcement, or disaster response. Earning a master’s in emergency management provides advanced training and leadership skills that can open doors to higher-level roles. Many professionals also seek certifications to enhance their qualifications.

Emergency management can be challenging and fast-paced, as professionals often work in high-pressure situations where quick decisions impact public safety. The job requires adaptability, resilience, and problem-solving skills, particularly when coordinating disaster response efforts. However, many professionals find the work rewarding because they play a critical role in protecting communities and saving lives. Strong preparation, ongoing training, and leadership skills gained through an emergency management master’s can help professionals manage the demands of this dynamic field.

Yes, emergency management professionals are in high demand. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for emergency management directors is projected to grow by 4% from 2023-2033. A master’s in emergency management from Tulane SoPA prepares you for a leadership role in this growing field. Learn more about a career in emergency management.