Online Bachelor of Science in Public Service and Public Policy – Emergency Management and Homeland Security
Arizona State University’s Bachelor of Science in public service and public policy with a concentration in emergency management and homeland security focuses on protecting the safety and security of society. In this program, you'll learn skills such as disaster identification, analysis and management. Upon graduation, you’ll be equipped to manage and assume leadership positions in emergency management and homeland security.
Quick facts
Next start date: 08/21/2025
Total classes: 40
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 120
Prepare for leadership roles in emergency management and homeland security
In an increasingly interconnected world, digital and physical disasters are valid concerns for governments, businesses and more. This program will improve your understanding of disaster-related needs such as emergency preparedness, identification, mitigation, recovery, strategic risk reduction and resilience capacity building.
By blending the concepts of public service and policy with emergency management and homeland security, you’ll gain the skills needed to handle both public and private security threats, including:
- Addressing public safety concerns related to disasters.
- Building a comprehensive perspective of risks and emergencies.
- Developing plans to address emergencies and disruptions before they occur.
- Organizing and improving disaster recovery efforts.
- Overseeing personnel and resources in times of crisis.
- Understanding human responses to disasters and how they can affect management efforts.
With a tailored education in public policy and emergency management, you’ll be able to take on leadership roles related to the protection of people, assets and communities.
How this program compares to similar ASU Online degrees
This concentration provides a comprehensive understanding of public service and policy while also offering a specialized area of focus in emergency management and homeland security. ASU’s online Bachelor of Science in public service and public policy program takes a broader approach and includes courses with an emphasis on public administration. The Bachelor of Science in emergency management and homeland security (EMHS) provides an advanced understanding of the field and would be ideal for those interested in that career path. In this program, you’ll also complete EMHS-specific elective courses instead of the general range of elective options available in the other programs.
Will my diploma say 'online'?
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.
Courses in public service, emergency management and more
This program features sociology, government and policy courses to create a foundation for advanced courses. The curriculum also provides you the opportunity to choose electives based on your interests and career goals.
The jobs you’ll be prepared for
Careers in homeland security and emergency management exist in the private and public sectors. In this program, you’ll develop skills that can be used in the public sector such as city, county, state and federal agencies, as well as private organizations. Career examples include, but aren’t limited to:
CEO
Compliance Manager
Distribution Center Manager
Emergency Manager
General Manager (GM)
Investment Fund Manager
Politician
Regulatory Affairs Manager
Security Manager
Learn from a school focused on public safety and community solutions
The impressive faculty in the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions inspire the next generation of public service leaders through real-world solutions to issues in areas such as child welfare, safety, city management, human trafficking and water scarcity. Faculty highlights include:
- Fellow of the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences.
- Fellow of the American Psychological Association.
- Member of the National Academy of Public Administration.
Learn from a school focused on public safety and community solutions
The impressive faculty in the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions inspire the next generation of public service leaders through real-world solutions to issues in areas such as child welfare, safety, city management, human trafficking and water scarcity. Faculty highlights include:
- Fellow of the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences.
- Fellow of the American Psychological Association.
- Member of the National Academy of Public Administration.
How to apply
first-year student
You’re considered a first-year student for application purposes if you’ve never attended college or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours.
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.
*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.
*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.
Preparing new leaders in public service
The Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions is a comprehensive public service college dedicated to addressing social problems through teaching, research and service. Our programs, which range from public policy and social work to criminal justice and emergency management, are designed to prepare graduates to make a difference in their communities.
#2
best graduate homeland security and emergency management programs, according to U.S. News & World Report.
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Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
