Emergency Management Minor

Program Overview

The Emergency Management Minor equips students with a comprehensive understanding of the various hazards the world faces today and prepares them for careers in emergency management. Students pursuing this minor will develop the knowledge and skills to effectively prepare for, mitigate, respond to, and recover from disasters and other hazards. They will build skills in communication, leadership, applied leadership, project management, and gain practical experience through internships.

Curriculum

The Emergency Management Minor at the University of Vermont is an 18-credit interdisciplinary program launched in Fall 2026 that teaches students how to prepare for, mitigate, respond to, and recover from disasters and public safety crises.

Deadlines

Students may apply at any time. Students are encouraged to meet with their academic advisor before applying to ensure they have enough time remaining at UVM to complete all requirements for the minor.

Outcomes

The field of emergency management is expanding due to increased natural disasters, climate change, terrorism, and public health crises (FEMA, n.d.). The Emergency Management minor at UVM is preparing graduates for essential management roles in disaster preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation.

Staffing gaps in the emergency management workforce fluctuated between 19 and 38 percent between 2019 and 2022 (FEMA, n.d.). The sector is also poised to grow between 2022 and 2032. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment growth for occupations related to emergency management to outpace the average for all occupations (BLS, 2023). 

The minor aligns with UVM’s strategic imperative to amplify its impact by preparing students for careers that address global challenges while prioritizing sustainability and public service.