Our Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management and Homeland Security degree prepares students to manage and understand risk so that societies can live with natural and/or technological hazards. Students learn specific and applicable skills to properly manage the system of disasters through a four-phase approach. This profession continues to grow as disasters and major emergencies become more frequent and costly, and as response continues to become more complex.
In addition, federal and state legislation has increased the demand at all levels of government and in hospitals, businesses and industries for well-educated individuals skilled in emergency planning and preparedness. Emergency management is managing disasters for both public and private institutions, and the education to meet that need is here at The University of Akron.
UA offers a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Management and Homeland Security that is:
The only degree of this type in Ohio
The first accredited program in the country, and the third to be created in the country, and
The only Emergency Management and Homeland Security Bachelor of Science degree program accredited by the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress.
The University of Akron’s Emergency Management and Homeland Security program is offered in various modes to fit your busy schedule.
Totally online web classes with flexible schedules
Traditional face-to-face classes on Akron's campus
Career Opportunities
Degrees and Preparation
A degree in emergency management opens the door to many career opportunities in such areas as:
local, state and federal levels of government
private sector companies, including insurance and consulting
nonprofit disaster relief organizations
Career Outlook
With the growing number of natural and man-made disasters, emergency management has become a vital part of government and business. In addition, federal and state laws have increased the demand for individuals who are well-trained in emergency planning and preparedness.
*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution
January 2026
Main Campus
Akron,
Akron,
Ohio,
44325, Midwest, United States
*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution
August 2025
Main Campus
Akron,
Akron,
Ohio,
44325, Midwest, United States
New Freshman
You are a high school student or have completed high school or equivalent and have never enrolled in a college/university. SAT or ACT is not required for standard admission or admission scholarship consideration for all types of applicants. An official SAT or ACT score is required to be considered for direct admission into your intended major.
All undergraduate international applicants must provide proof of English proficiency by meeting the minimum score from one of the following acceptable tests. This requirement can be waived if you meet certain criteria.
Minimum requirements for English proficiency:
TOEFL iBT: 71
IELTS: 6.0
SAT (Evidence-based reading & writing) test taken after March, 2016: 500
ACT English: 18
Duolingo English Test (DET): 95
CAE (Cambridge English: Advanced): 169
PTE: 48
GTEC CBT/GTEC: 1126/1135
Application deadlines: Fall: May 1; Spring: October 1 and Summer I, II, III: March 1
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.
Students at UA will gain an excellent quality of education thanks to a passionate faculty, contemporary facilities and a blend of learning styles.
Help me Apply
