Overview

This certificate offers advanced education in the management of emergencies, hazards, disasters, and community resilience. Designed for both current and aspiring professionals, the program equips students with the skills to assess, manage, and respond effectively to a variety of natural and man-made hazards.

Program Details

The Graduate Certificate in Disasters, Hazards, and Emergency Management (DHEM) certificate emphasizes a comprehensive, all-hazards emergency management model that covers natural and human-made hazards, including wildfires, hurricanes, technological risks, and community resilience. The program uses an interdisciplinary approach to develop skills in critical thinking, learning adaptation, and policy analysis. 

Students completing this program will have a deep understanding of the policy and management landscape in emergency management, making them well-prepared for roles in government agencies, non-profits, and the private sector. 

Timeline

The certificate requires 12 credit hours, which students can complete within one year. The program must be completed within 7 years. 

Admissions

• Standard Admission: Students with a 3.0 GPA or higher from their bachelor’s program. 

• Conditional Admission: Students with lower GPAs may be considered for conditional admission upon approval by the program director. 

To apply for admission, please: 

• Complete a non-degree application. 

• Upload your current, chronological resume. 

• Upload an unofficial transcript from the higher education institution that awarded your bachelor's degree. 

• Pay the $50 application fee, which can be waived for CU Denver alumni, veterans and those on active military duty, and AmeriCorps volunteers. 

• Submit your application. 

Tuition and Fees

Investing in your future is a big decision. However, becoming a fully online student at CU Denver is a high-quality and affordable option for learners of all types. Visit our tuition and financial aid page for more information. Financial aid and scholarships are available for those who qualify.  

Career Outlook

Professionals in this field work in roles related to natural and man-made hazards, community resilience, and emergency management. The skills gained in this certificate can lead to opportunities in government agencies, non-profits, private sector companies, and international organizations focused on disaster preparedness and response. 

Certificate Courses

Students must complete 12 credit hours as part of this certificate program, with two required courses, along with several electives. Look through the entire catalog of available courses here. A quick preview of some of the courses you’ll be engaging with: 

• CRJU 5720 – Public Policies for Hazards and Disasters (3 Credits) 
  This course explores public policymaking and administration related to homeland security and disaster management in the U.S., highlighting the balance between security and traditional hazards management. Students will analyze the role of institutional processes, governmental and nongovernmental organizations in policy development and implementation.  

• CRJU 5650 – Public Service in Emergency Management and Homeland Security (3 Credits) 
  Dive into the world of emergency management and homeland security, covering the management of hazards, disasters, and the networks of government and nonprofit organizations that provide services. The course emphasizes principles of emergency management at state and local levels, equipping students with a comprehensive understanding of service delivery during emergencies. 

• URPL 6645 – Disaster/Climate Change Planning (3 Credits) 
  URPL 6645 introduces students to key concepts and debates within disaster and climate change studies, using case studies from Colorado and the Rocky Mountain region. Emphasizing risk reduction and resilience-building through planning, the course prepares students to address climate-related challenges in real-world contexts.