Graduate Certificate in Disasters, Hazards, and Emergency Management
Prepare for the unexpected and lead with confidence with CU Denver's fully-online Graduate Certificate in Disasters, Hazards, and Emergency Management.
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.
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Degree LevelGraduate Certificate -
School & CollegeSchool of Public Affairs -
Application Deadline(s)May 1, 2025 -
Total Credit Hours12 -
Class Type100% Online -
Time CommitmentFull-Time or Part-Time -
Start Term(s)Fall, Spring, Summer
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Program Overview & Timeline
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.
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.
The certificate requires 12 credit hours, which students can complete within one year. The program must be completed within 7 years.
The program uses an interdisciplinary approach to develop skills in critical thinking, learning adaptation, and policy analysis.
Tuition Breakdown
| Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|
| $613 per credit | $736 per credit |
Example Courses
Students must complete 12 credit hours as part of this certificate program, with two required courses, along with several electives. A quick preview of some of the courses you’ll be engaging with:
Public Policies for Hazards and Disasters (CRJU 5720)
Examines U.S. homeland security and disaster policy, balancing security and hazard management. Analyzes institutional processes and roles of government and nonprofit organizations.
Public Service in Emergency Management and Homeland Security (CRJU 5650)
Explore emergency management and homeland security, focusing on hazards, disasters, and service networks. Emphasizes state and local emergency management principles/service delivery.
Disaster/Climate Change Planning (URPL 6645)
Explores disaster and climate change studies with case studies from Colorado and the Rocky Mountain region, focusing on risk reduction, resilience, and real-world planning solutions.
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.
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.
Admissions
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. Tuition and fees are based largely on the degree program you enroll in.
Visit our tuition and financial aid page for more information. Financial aid and scholarships are available for those who qualify.
Experience flexible, career-focused programs with CU Denver’s renowned quality—100% online—taught by expert faculty in engaging courses within a supportive community, all at an affordable tuition with financial aid and scholarships available.
Flexible, career-focused programs with the same CU Denver quality—100% online.
Expert faculty, engaging courses, and a supportive online community.
Affordable tuition with financial aid and scholarships for online students.
Take the Next Step
Ready to make a difference in times of need? Take the first step toward earning your online degree by filling out the form above for more information or calling us at 303-860-5604.