Bethel University’s Emergency Services Management program is designed for current and aspiring public safety professionals seeking to lead and respond effectively in high-pressure environments. This fully online, degree-completion program prepares students to plan for and manage natural and human-made disasters while equipping them with the leadership, legal, and operational skills necessary to serve in emergency management, homeland security, and disaster response fields.

As an Emergency Services Management major at Bethel, you will:

• Examine the structure, challenges, and strategic planning processes of emergency and disaster management systems at local, state, and federal levels.

• Learn how to manage terrorist incidents and weapons of mass destruction, including policies and procedures for threat mitigation and response.

• Apply principles of risk analysis, cybersecurity, and threat assessment to real-world public safety scenarios.
  

• Explore public policy, legal frameworks, and homeland security regulations to navigate leadership and operational challenges in public safety.
  

• Understand the science behind natural disasters and how it informs planning, preparedness, and community resilience efforts.
  

• Gain practical knowledge in human resource management, budgeting, and financial oversight of emergency response organizations.
  

• Build leadership and organizational development skills to prepare for supervisory and executive roles within emergency services agencies.

Emergency Management Director

Coordinate disaster response or crisis management activities, including preparedness training and emergency planning for natural disasters, public health emergencies, or terrorist threats.

• Typical Education: Bachelor’s degree in emergency management, public administration, or related field
• Median Salary: $83,900
• Job Outlook: 3% growth (2023–2033)

Fire Chief / Fire Services Administrator

Lead a fire department by managing personnel, budgets, emergency operations, and public safety education programs.

• Typical Education: Bachelor’s degree in fire science, emergency services, or public administration
• Median Salary: $85,930 (for top-level fire officials; varies by location)
• Job Outlook: Steady demand for experienced fire professionals in leadership roles

Homeland Security Specialist

Develop and implement safety and security policies to protect against threats such as terrorism, cyberattacks, and natural disasters. Often works with local, state, or federal agencies.

• Typical Education: Bachelor’s degree in homeland security, emergency management, or criminal justice
• Median Salary: $76,730 (estimate)
• Job Outlook: Growing need in public and private sectors, especially in cybersecurity and disaster preparedness

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Manager

Oversee EMS teams, coordinate patient transport logistics, manage compliance with medical protocols, and direct emergency care operations.

• Typical Education: Bachelor’s degree in emergency services or healthcare administration
• Median Salary: $77,750 (Medical and Health Services Managers – lower end)
• Job Outlook: 28% growth (2023–2033 – much faster than average)