Do you have the desire to oversee emergency operations in the event of natural or man-made disasters or terrorist attacks? You can prepare for such a role through Walden University's M.S. in Criminal Justice Leadership and Executive Management with a specialization in Emergency Management. Learn more about this online master's program here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Kind of Program Is It?
Walden University's Master in Criminal Justice Leadership and Executive Management program with a specialization in Emergency Management is designed to develop management, organizational, and problem-solving skills while providing an education in public safety, emergency response, and disaster management. Area of specialization courses address the roles and issues of police, medical, and fire personnel in emergency situations, communication and coordination strategies between emergency organizations, public safety management techniques, emergency planning concepts, and professional ethics. Students also have the opportunity to examine case studies relating to public safety. The core curriculum offers study in organizational management, financial management, social justice, criminal behavior theories, and research methods.
What are the Prerequisites?
Prior to enrolling in the Master in Criminal Justice Leadership and Executive Management program with a specialization in Emergency Management, you should have earned a bachelor's degree and have an academic and professional background in criminal justice, criminal justice administration, or business management. Applicants to Walden University's programs should be at least 24 years old and have a high school diploma or GED equivalent; applicants may need to complete additional requirements for some programs.
What are the Course Requirements?
You will be required to complete a total of 61 credits to earn the Master in Criminal Justice Leadership and Executive Management degree with a specialization in Emergency Management. This total reflects 45 credits in core courses, 15 credits in specialization classes, and a one-credit foundation course. Courses are taken sequentially as outlined below, with two courses taken in each of the program's first six quarters and one course in the final quarter. The program can be completed in 21 months, though this time varies and is influenced by individual student progress.
Master in Criminal Justice Leadership and Executive Management with a specialization in Emergency Management Requirements
Core Courses
- Criminal Behavior
- Controversies in Criminal Justice
- Organizational Management and Leadership
- Criminal Justice Research
- Ethics and Social Justice
- Strategic Planning: Collaboration, Cooperation, and Coordination
- Finance and Budgeting for the Public Sector
- Human Resource Management
- Applied Communications
Specialization Courses
- Public Safety Issues
- Managing Public Safety Organizations
- Ethics in Preserving Public Safety
What Could I Do After I Graduate?
Career Opportunities
Upon completion of Walden University's Master in Criminal Justice Leadership and Executive Management program with a specialization in Emergency Management, you could be prepared to assume directorial or administrative positions in the public or private sectors. You could seek these positions in government agencies, large or small corporations, emergency response organizations, community health centers, or nonprofit health organizations. You might also pursue an academic career at a college or university. Positions you could pursue include:
- Public safety director
- Disaster relief director
- Corporate safety director
- Emergency services manager
Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association, www.ncahlc.org.

