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NSU's Master of Science in Disaster and Emergency Management is ranked #1 in the nation for interprofessional emergency management education. This fully online, 36-credit program prepares professionals to lead preparedness, response, mitigation, and recovery efforts across public, private, and nonprofit sectors.
Students learn from nationally recognized faculty and build direct connections with community organizations through hands-on practicums. Graduates leave with both the expertise and a professional portfolio to lead when it matters most.
Online, Flexible, and Built for Working Professionals
NSU's M.S. in Disaster and Emergency Management is offered fully online with evening courses, designed for working professionals. Students connect with community partners — including FEMA and local emergency response teams — to complete hands-on practicums and real-world service as part of the program's core mission.
What Is an Emergency Manager?
An emergency manager coordinates disaster preparedness, response,
mitigation, and recovery for communities, businesses, and government agencies. According
to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of emergency management directors
is projected to grow 5% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations,
with
strong demand at the local, state, federal, and international levels.
Quick Facts
Visit the Tuition and Fees page for more information.
For Summer Admission: April 15
For Fall Admission: August 1
Understanding the dynamics of disaster management has equipped me to appreciate the importance of adaptability, leadership, and rapid decision-making in health care settings, which are crucial qualities sought after in medical professionals.
Silvia Cabal, D.O., M.S. | Disaster and Emergency Management Alumna
With NSU, I’m becoming a more effective leader for my community, my country, and the next generation of emergency managers.
Pablo Nieves Combat Medic, Firefighter Graduate Student, | M.S. in Disaster and Emergency Management
NSU’s M.S. in Disaster and Emergency Management has expanded my skill set in dealing with emergencies and everyday problems. It has taught me to plan ahead and anticipate problems before they occur. My employer has valued these skills by appointing me to the hospital’s emergency management committee. I was also elected to the board of directors for the regional healthcare emergency readiness coalition which covers all types of healthcare providers in our twelve-county region.
Tony Swicer, D.O., M.S. DEM, M.P.H. M.S. | Disaster and Emergency Management Alumnus
I developed a thorough grasp of disaster preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery techniques through a multidisciplinary program. The curriculum ensured that I was prepared to lead and assist efforts to protect communities and save lives in the event of natural or man-made disasters by merging theoretical knowledge with volunteering practical abilities.
Susie Gilot, M.S. | Disaster and Emergency Management Alumna
The professors in the Disaster and Emergency Management Graduate Program are not only experts in their field but are also deeply passionate about what they teach. Their enthusiasm and dedication are contagious, making every class engaging and inspiring. One aspect that truly sets these professors apart is their eagerness to support students both inside and outside the classroom.
Samantha Pryde, M.S. | Disaster and Emergency Management Alumna
Why Earn Your M.S. in Emergency Management at NSU?
in real-world trainings, drills, and workshops.
Disaster and Emergency Management M.S. Curriculum
NSU's M.S. in Disaster and Emergency Management covers all-hazards prevention, response,
mitigation, and recovery at the local, national, and international level. All students
complete a core curriculum in emergency management theory and leadership, then select
a specialty
concentration in one of five tracks: public health, cybersecurity, criminal justice
and law enforcement, environmental hazards, or maritime safety and security.
M.S. in Disaster and Emergency Management — Program Highlights
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Ranked #1 in the nation for interprofessional emergency management education 36 total credits
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100% online with evening courses
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Complete in as few as 18–24 months
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Five concentration tracks: public health, cybersecurity, criminal justice and law enforcement, environmental hazards, and maritime safety and security
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Hands-on practicum with real community partners including FEMA and local emergency response teams
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Application deadlines: December 15 (Winter) · April 15 (Summer) · August 1 (Fall)
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Housed in NSU's Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine
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Questions about the program? Cal Futterman, M.Ed., Assistant Director of Graduate Admissions, is here to help. Reach out at Cal Futterman, M. Ed. Assistant Director, Graduate Admissions or call (954) 514-0265.
Frequently Asked Questions about NSU's M.S. in Disaster and Emergency Management
NSU's Master of Science in Disaster and Emergency Management is a 36-credit, fully online graduate program ranked #1 in the nation for interprofessional emergency management education. The program prepares professionals to lead preparedness, response, mitigation, and recovery efforts across public, private, and nonprofit sectors.
Most students complete the M.S. in Disaster and Emergency Management in 18 to 24 months. Evening courses allow students to continue working while earning their degree.
Students choose from five concentration tracks: public health, cybersecurity, criminal
justice and law enforcement, environmental hazards, or maritime safety and security.
Half of all coursework
is dedicated to the chosen concentration.
Yes. The M.S. in Disaster and Emergency Management is offered 100% online with evening courses, designed for working professionals seeking to advance without interrupting their careers.
December 15 for Winter admission, April 15 for Summer admission, and August 1 for Fall admission.
Graduates work as emergency management directors, homeland security specialists, public health emergency coordinators, business continuity planners, and disaster relief managers in government agencies, healthcare systems, nonprofits, and private sector organizations.
Contact Cal Futterman, M.Ed., Assistant Director of Graduate Admissions at cf1095@nova.edu or (954) 514-0265.
After Applying, What Happens Next?
Depending on the time of year, the review process may take a few weeks. You can check your application status at any time via the online application portal. Once a decision has been made, notification is sent via email to the address on file.