What to Expect from an Emergency Management AA Degree
An Associate Degree in Emergency Management prepares students to respond to natural and human-made disasters. These two-year programs teach how to prevent, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies using national frameworks and interagency coordination strategies.
Curriculum Overview
Emergency Management associate degrees cover the full emergency management cycle: mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. Students study topics such as:
- Disaster Planning and Mitigation
- Crisis Communication
- Hazardous Materials Management
- Risk Assessment and Threat Analysis
- National Response Framework (NRF) and Incident Command System (ICS)
- Cybersecurity and Emergency Technology
- Leadership and Organizational Management
Many programs also include coursework on terrorism, homeland security, and public policy. Practical components, such as simulated emergency scenarios or internships, are common. For example, Harper College offers lab-based training that mirrors real-life response conditions.
Learning Outcomes
Graduates gain essential skills in:
- Coordinating multi-agency disaster response
- Analyzing hazards and identifying mitigation strategies
- Communicating effectively under pressure
- Understanding government roles at local, state, and federal levels
- Applying legal and ethical guidelines in emergency contexts
Programs like the one at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University emphasize a whole-community approach and prepare students for leadership in both civil and military settings.
Career Opportunities
An Emergency Management associate degree opens doors to entry-level roles such as:
- Emergency Services Coordinator
- Disaster Response Specialist
- Risk Management Assistant
- Emergency Operations Planner
- Airport Emergency Manager
Typical employers include FEMA, the American Red Cross, state and local government agencies, hospitals, and private companies. Embry-Riddle reports a one-year post-graduation average salary of $67,598 for emergency management graduates.
Tuition and Cost Expectations
Tuition varies by institution and enrollment load. Below are typical cost structures:
- South College: $3,975 per quarter for full-time students (10–20 credits). View tuition details
- Drury University: $385 per academic unit
- Forsyth Tech: Low in-state tuition for North Carolina residents, fully online option
- Edmonds College: 95 credits required; financial aid and transfer options available. See program info
Programs generally range from $6,000 to $20,000 depending on the college and number of credits taken per term.
Admissions Requirements
Admissions criteria are generally accessible and include:
- High school diploma or GED
- Application submission (some schools waive fees)
- Placement testing or proof of college readiness
- Minimum GPA (if applicable)
Some programs, like South College, require students to earn a “C” or better in initial major courses before gaining formal admission.
Online and On-Campus Options
Many institutions offer flexible learning formats:
- Fully Online: Embry-Riddle, Waldorf University, South College, Forsyth Tech
- Hybrid or On-Campus: Lone Star College, Citrus College, Harper College
Online options typically feature asynchronous classes, allowing students to study on their own schedule. Some schools also offer live virtual classrooms.
Transfer Opportunities
Many associate degree programs are designed to transfer smoothly into bachelor’s degree tracks in:
- Emergency Management
- Homeland Security
- Public Safety Administration
For example, Waldorf University allows seamless transfer into its B.A. in Emergency Management or Homeland Security. Lone Star College also offers an Emergency Management baccalaureate program.
Top Schools
Emergency management professionals play a vital role in protecting communities, coordinating disaster response, and ensuring public safety during crises. Whether you’re just beginning your career or seeking to advance in the field, choosing the right associate degree program can make all the difference.
Below, we highlight standout programs across the U.S. that offer comprehensive training, flexible learning options, and strong career outcomes. From online and hybrid formats to hands-on simulations and transfer pathways, these schools provide the academic and practical foundation needed to launch or elevate a career in emergency services and disaster response.
| School | Location | Program Format | Credits | Tuition Info | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University | Daytona Beach, FL | Online or Virtual Classroom | 60 | Not listed; high ROI based on salary | Strong salary outcomes ($67,598/year), military- and civilian-focused |
| South College | Asheville, NC | Fully Online | Varies by term | $2,100–$3,975 per quarter | Tiered tuition model with flexibility for credit loads |
| Lone Star College | Houston, TX | On-Campus (LSC–North Harris) | 60 | Community college rates | Offers stackable credentials and certificates |
| Edmonds College | Lynnwood, WA | Fully Online | 95+ | Not listed | AAS-T degree designed for transfer to bachelor’s programs |
| Harper College | Palatine, IL | On-Campus with Simulation Lab | 61 | Community college rates | FEMA-recognized program with real-world lab experience |
| Pacific Union College | Angwin, CA | Online (AS-to-BS pathway) | AS: ~60 | $385 per unit | All-online BS transition with asynchronous 11-week terms |
| Waldorf University | Forest City, IA | Fully Online | 60 | Not listed | Seamless AA-to-BA pathway within Waldorf’s own programs |
| Citrus College | Glendora, CA | On-Campus | 22 core units (AS) | Community college rates | Career-ready focus with technology integration in planning |
| Drury University | Springfield, MO | Fully Online | 60 (18-credit core) | Not listed | Focus on leadership and crisis management in public safety |
| Forsyth Technical Community College | King, NC | Fully Online | 60 (2-year program) | Community college rates | Strong foundation in interagency response and risk assessment |
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
https://erau.edu/degrees/associate/emergency-management
Daytona Beach, FL
Comprehensive Online and On-Campus Training
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University offers a 60-credit Associate of Science in Emergency Management program that provides a deep dive into the national preparedness cycle, emphasizing the National Response Framework (NRF), Incident Command System (ICS), and Defense Support of Civil Authorities (DSCA). Designed for both civilian and military career paths, the program can be completed fully online or through EagleVision Virtual Classroom. The curriculum covers disaster planning, emergency administration, and leadership development, while highlighting the importance of community resilience and coordinated multi-agency response efforts.
Strong Career Outcomes and Salary Potential
Graduates from Embry-Riddle are well-positioned for roles such as Emergency Services Managers, Disaster Response Specialists, and Risk Representatives. Employers include the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, FEMA, and the American Red Cross. The program fosters leadership and technical capabilities essential to public and private emergency management sectors. As of 2024, graduates report an average salary of $67,598 one year after completing the program, demonstrating strong return on investment and workforce readiness.
South College
https://www.south.edu/program/associate-of-science-in-emergency-management-as/
Asheville, NC
Practical Foundations for Emergency Response
South College’s Associate of Science in Emergency Management is a fully online program that equips students with essential knowledge in hazard mitigation, search and rescue, and disaster recovery. Focused on coordination and risk analysis, this program emphasizes how local, state, and federal agencies function during crises. Students explore emergency management theories, interagency collaboration, and the social impacts of disasters while gaining soft skills in communication, critical thinking, and technology.
Flexible Learning with Tiered Tuition
This flexible program supports busy learners, offering coursework tailored for those entering homeland security, emergency response, or public service. The tuition ranges from $2,100 to $3,975 per quarter depending on credit load, with each credit beyond 20 charged at $310. This cost-effective program helps students build a competitive foundation for career opportunities in disaster coordination and community preparedness.
Lone Star College
https://www.lonestar.edu/programs-of-study/emergency-management-aas
Houston, TX
Two-Year Applied Degree with Practical Emphasis
Lone Star College offers a 60-credit Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Emergency Management, designed to train students for immediate entry into the workforce or further study. Available at LSC–North Harris, the program emphasizes contingency planning, inter-agency operations, legal frameworks, and the use of disaster management technology. First-time college students must also complete a foundational learning course to support their academic readiness.
Career-Ready Skills and Stackable Credentials
Graduates are qualified for careers in municipal and corporate emergency services, including roles in risk management and disaster response coordination. The program supports multiple certificate exit points, offering flexibility for professionals to upskill gradually. Courses transfer to Lone Star’s bachelor’s program or to other four-year institutions, enhancing long-term career growth in emergency and homeland security management.
Edmonds College
https://catalog.edmonds.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=63&poid=16055&returnto=18576
Lynnwood, WA
Leadership-Focused Online AAS-T Degree
The Emergency Management AAS-T degree at Edmonds College requires completion of at least 95 credits and is designed to prepare students for both immediate employment and transfer to specific bachelor’s programs. Offered fully online, this program focuses on administrative, technical, and coordination skills for disaster response. The curriculum includes emergency planning, disaster recovery, and interagency coordination, complemented by an internship experience and optional technical electives.
Transferability and Professional Development
While primarily a professional-technical degree, this AAS-T articulates to bachelor’s programs at institutions like Central Washington University. Students receive academic advising to ensure their coursework aligns with long-term goals. The program emphasizes analytical and planning skills critical for leadership in emergency management, offering a strong stepping stone to more advanced academic or professional pathways.
Harper College
Hands-On Disaster Management Training
Harper College’s 61-credit Associate in Applied Science in Emergency and Disaster Management prepares students for roles at various governmental levels, with hands-on training in a simulation lab. The program explores emergency ideologies, hazardous materials, international disaster management, and interagency coordination, offering real-world practice in communication and command roles. It is ideal for new entrants and professionals in fields such as homeland security or fire science seeking specialization.
FEMA-Recognized, Career-Oriented Program
This degree is recognized by FEMA’s Emergency Management Institute and designed to build both foundational and practical expertise. Career opportunities include emergency operations directors and compliance planners. The blend of academic coursework and simulated experience makes it a strong fit for students aiming for immediate employment or industry certification in emergency response fields.
Pacific Union College
https://www.puc.edu/academics/departments/nursing-health-sciences/emergency-services
Angwin, CA
AS in Emergency Services as a Launchpad
Pacific Union College offers an Associate of Science in Emergency Services as part of a pathway to a full Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management. The associate degree builds skills in emergency field medicine, EMT work, and prepares students for careers in health response, paramedicine, or future graduate programs. The curriculum is tailored for those interested in advancing to leadership in governmental, NGO, or private sectors.
Online AS-to-BS Pathway with Flexibility
All courses for the BS pathway are available online in an asynchronous format across California and Hawaii, accommodating professional schedules. With 11-week terms and an average commitment of 3 hours per week per unit, the program offers flexibility and competitive pricing at $385 per academic unit. Students gain both technical expertise and leadership grounding, supported by a nationally recognized emergency management honor society.
Waldorf University
https://www.waldorf.edu/degree-programs/associates/aa-emergency-management/
Forest City, IA
Foundational Exposure with Academic Progression Opportunities
Waldorf University’s Associate of Arts in Emergency Management is a 60-credit, two-year program designed for students seeking initial exposure to emergency management or professionals in fields like fire science, homeland security, or EMT administration. The curriculum covers critical topics such as the four phases of emergency management, terrorism response, and interagency disaster coordination. The program provides a flexible academic path for those who want to expand their practical and theoretical knowledge in the growing field of emergency services.
Seamless Transfer to Bachelor’s Programs
This A.A. degree also serves as a stepping stone for further study, aligning directly with Waldorf’s Bachelor of Arts in Emergency Management or Homeland Security programs. Students who complete the associate degree with full-time enrollment can transition smoothly to upper-division coursework, positioning themselves for leadership roles within governmental and nonprofit emergency service agencies.
Citrus College
Career-Ready Training for Emergency Service Fields
Citrus College offers an Associate of Science in Emergency Management and Homeland Security tailored for students and professionals aiming to work in local, state, and federal emergency management roles. With 22 required units, the program teaches students to analyze emergency plans, apply relevant regulations, and understand disaster impacts. It also explores technologies used in emergency response and emphasizes planning and mitigation strategies.
Designed for Employment and Advancement
This degree equips graduates for roles in agencies such as FEMA, local city departments, and nonprofits like the Red Cross. It also adds academic credibility for those already working in the field. Students emerge with both theoretical understanding and practical insights into emergency operations, allowing them to either seek employment or continue with higher education in public safety and emergency management.
Drury University
https://www.drury.edu/go/associate-emergency-management/
Springfield, MO
Practical Leadership in Crisis Response
Drury University’s Associate of Science in Emergency Services Management and Leadership focuses on preparing students for crisis leadership across various public safety sectors. The program’s 18-credit core includes courses in hazard identification, emergency planning, interpersonal communication, and financial literacy for leaders. Designed to support careers in law enforcement, public health, emergency communications, and more, this associate degree offers a direct and practical approach to emergency leadership training.
Clear Pathway to a Bachelor’s Degree
Students can complete the associate degree online and are encouraged to continue into Drury’s bachelor’s program in the same field. This flexible and focused academic path is ideal for working professionals seeking advancement or those just beginning a career in community safety, disaster preparedness, or emergency coordination.
Forsyth Technical Community College
https://www.forsythtech.edu/programs/emergency-management/
King, NC
Two-Year Online Emergency Management Program
Forsyth Tech’s Associate in Applied Science in Emergency Management is a two-year, fully online program that provides students with a strong foundation in emergency planning, incident management, and disaster mitigation. The program is structured to develop skills in risk assessment, interagency communication, crisis leadership, and strategic response—all crucial for handling natural and human-made disasters.
Launch a Career in Public Service
Graduates are equipped for careers in emergency services and public safety, supporting efforts in coordination and response for government and private organizations. With increasing demand in the field, this program offers an affordable, flexible route to building a meaningful career dedicated to public protection and disaster recovery.
How Long to Pay Off the Tuition?
Pursuing an associate degree in emergency management can be a cost-effective investment in a high-impact career. On average, tuition for these programs ranges from $7,000 to $15,000, depending on the institution and residency status. For this analysis, we’ll use an estimated average total tuition of $11,000.
Graduates in this field report starting salaries averaging around $48,000 per year, with strong growth potential as experience and credentials increase.
Here’s how long it would take to pay off the $11,000 in tuition, assuming no interest and dedicating different portions of your annual salary toward repayment:
| % of Salary Used for Repayment | Annual Repayment | Years to Pay Off $11,000 |
|---|---|---|
| 5% ($2,400/year) | $2,400 | 4.6 years |
| 10% ($4,800/year) | $4,800 | 2.3 years |
| 15% ($7,200/year) | $7,200 | 1.5 years |
| 20% ($9,600/year) | $9,600 | 1.1 years |
These estimates show that with modest budgeting, students can pay off their education quickly—especially when entering roles in public safety, emergency services, or federal agencies with competitive benefits.
With increasing demand in the emergency management sector, the return on investment for these associate programs is strong, both in terms of career stability and financial sustainability.