Description
The Public Safety Management major prepares students to become effective leaders in local fire departments, law enforcement agencies, and emergency medical services as well as state and federal agencies. Students learn about engaging with community members, managing budgets, and working with other agencies.
This major works well with associate degrees in fields like law enforcement and fire-emergency medical services, taking what students have learned about doing the job in the field and adding skills necessary to lead organizations. It’s also suitable for students without an associate’s degree, offering flexibility for both newcomers and those with experience alike.
For example, students can take public administration and planning classes to learn how to handle public safety challenges, understand the physical environments in which they work, manage resources, and lead effectively. Communication classes teach skills such as resolving conflicts, negotiating, and working with different groups of people.
Other courses cover the criminal justice system and issues related to law enforcement. Finally, additional public policy and social science classes provide insights into policymaking, mental health, addiction, and civil rights, all of which are important for leaders to understand in the context of public safety.
What careers can this major prepare you for?
Graduates work in law enforcement, fire service, emergency medical services, and emergency management at the local, state, and federal levels. Graduates are also in a position to pursue opportunities related to public policy analysis, communication and public relations, budget analysis, civil rights advocacy, and GIS analysis.
Students may go on to hold positions including: Corrections Officers, Court Clerk, Emergency Management Coordinator, Federal Bureau of Investigation Agent, Fire Chief, Firefighter, GIS Specialist, Investigator, Law Clerk, Police Officer, Paralegal, and City Public Safety Director.
What skills are developed within this major?
Skills developed within this major include: leadership; management; communication; conflict resolution; analytical skills; problem-solving; critical-thinking; and passion for public service.
Additional Information
