Emergency Management and Homeland Security (Biosecurity and Threat Management), MA
Program Overview
This 33-credit-hour program prepares students to manage biological threats and develop expertise in biosecurity and threat management. It combines practical knowledge and theoretical understanding, emphasizing collaboration, public service, and critical thinking. Graduates can pursue careers in public sector agencies, private sector jobs, and various roles in biosecurity and threat management.
Program Outline
Degree Overview
Objectives:
- Prepare students to manage and mitigate biological threats like germ warfare, deadly viruses, and natural hazards.
- Develop expertise in biosecurity and threat management, addressing issues related to:
- Bioterrorism
- Agroterrorism
- Communicable disease threats
- Biodefense
Description:
- Focuses on the intersection of:
- Homeland security
- Public health
- Risk management
- Offers a blended learning approach:
- Combines practical knowledge and theoretical understanding
- Emphasizes complex societal challenges
- Core values:
- Collaboration
- Public service
- Commitment to diversity
- Critical thinking
- Evidence-based assessment
Outline
Program Content:
- Biosecurity and threat management
- Public health
- Disaster management
- Hazards
- Planning
- Public safety
- Risk management
- Security
- Terrorism
Structure:
- 33 credit hour program
- Includes a required applied project course (PAF 593)
- Consists of:
- Required Core Courses (18 credit hours)
- Concentration Courses (6 credit hours)
- Elective or Research (6 credit hours)
- Culminating Experience (3 credit hours)
Courses:
- Required Core:
- Applied Data Analysis in Criminal Justice
- Homeland Security
- Hazards Governance
- Integrated Emergency Management
- GIS for Hazards Analysis
- Concentration:
- Health Aspects of Crises, Emergencies, Disasters
Unique Approaches:
The program emphasizes:
- Collaboration between practitioners, faculty, and students
- Public service
- Commitment to diversity
- Critical thinking
- Evidence-based assessment
Careers
Potential Paths:
- Leadership and management positions in public sector agencies
- Federal, state, and local levels
- Private sector jobs
- Hospital sector
- Health care
- Security
Opportunities:
- Various career options in biosecurity and threat management
- Potential to contribute to national security and public safety
Examples:
- Biosafety Officer
- Biosecurity Monitor
- Biosecurity Officer
- Biosecurity Specialist
- Bioterrorism Researcher
- Data Scientist
Other
Partnership:
- The PLuS Alliance partnership
- Collaborative degree program with:
- King's College London
- UNSW Sydney
- Fosters global learning opportunities
- Exposure to international perspectives
Global Opportunities:
- PLuS-partner courses
- Offered online
- Develop transferable global skills
Arizona State University: A Comprehensive Overview
Overview:
Arizona State University (ASU) is a top-ranked research university located in the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. It is known for its innovative approach to education, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. ASU is recognized for its commitment to inclusivity, serving learners at all stages of life and fostering a diverse and welcoming community.
Services Offered:
ASU provides a comprehensive range of services to support student success, including:
Academic Support:
Tutoring, advising, and academic success resources.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, financial aid programs, and tuition assistance.Student Life:
Housing and dining, clubs and activities, health and wellness services, and transportation.Career Services:
Job and career resources, internship opportunities, and career counseling.Student Life and Campus Experience:
ASU offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide array of clubs, organizations, and events, fostering personal growth and development. The university's diverse student body creates a rich cultural environment, promoting global perspectives and intercultural understanding.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Top-Ranked Programs:
ASU boasts numerous top-ranked programs, including 82 programs ranked in the top 25 nationally, with 37 in the top 10.Innovative Learning Environment:
ASU embraces a flexible and personalized approach to learning, allowing students to customize their academic journey.World-Class Faculty:
Students benefit from instruction led by renowned professors and researchers, many of whom are leaders in their fields.Global Impact:
ASU is consistently ranked among the top universities for global impact, demonstrating its commitment to addressing global challenges.Diverse and Inclusive Community:
ASU fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment, embracing students from all backgrounds and promoting a sense of belonging.Academic Programs:
ASU offers over 800 degree programs across a wide range of disciplines, including:
Undergraduate:
More than 400 undergraduate degrees in fields such as engineering, journalism, business, sustainability, nursing, education, and more.Graduate:
Over 450 graduate degrees, including master's and doctoral programs.Other:
ASU is known for its commitment to research and innovation, with a strong focus on addressing real-world challenges. The university is also a leader in sustainability, promoting environmental responsibility and social justice.
Entry Requirements:
EU Home Students:
- Bachelor's or Master's degree: in criminology or criminal justice, public administration or public service, sociology or social work, public safety or fire service management, parks and recreation management, applied sciences, or another closely related field from a regionally accredited institution.
- Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.
- Graduate admission application and application fee:
- Official transcript:
- Two letters of recommendation:
- Written statement: at least one page in length, describing the applicant's educational and career goals and long-term professional development strategy.
- Evidence of current employment: in an organization in this field; at least two years of prior professional experience in this or a related field; or a bachelor's degree in a related area.
International Overseas Students (Outside the EU):
- All of the above requirements for EU Home Students. This can be demonstrated through:
- TOEFL: Minimum score of 80 on the internet-based test (iBT).
- IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5 overall, with no sub-score below 6.0.
- PTE Academic: Minimum score of 58.
Additional Notes:
- Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications as early as possible, as space is limited.
- Applicants with questions about the program or the admissions process are encouraged to contact the School of Public Affairs at idpadvising@asu.edu or 602-496-0915.
