Photo: Stella Kalinina
On May 12, 2023, USC Bovard College hosted its first-ever commencement ceremony for the Master of Science in Emergency Management program. The inaugural graduates commemorated their remarkable achievements and celebrated with friends, family, and peers. The MSEM graduates are ready to make a significant impact in the field of emergency management, applying their skills and knowledge to protect communities and respond effectively to emergencies.
Dr. Theodore Johnson, an MS in Criminal Justice professor at USC Bovard College, political scientist, author, and senior advisor with New America, delivered this year’s commencement speech. During his address, he shared his personal story of transformation from a U.S. Navy Commander to a scholar and author. “I set out to create myself into the man I wanted to be: A scholar. A professor. An author. And a public intellectual on black American politics. This is what you have done for yourself, and what Bovard College provided a means to do.”
Dean Anthony Bailey acknowledged the unique circumstances that helped mold this program and remarked, “Your class includes our first graduates of the Emergency Management program. This program – somewhat inspired by the pandemic – has prepared you to play a crucial leadership role in protecting our communities from natural and man-made hazards and emergencies.”
Throughout the online program, the graduates have developed close relationships with their peers and faculty members. “I’m very excited to bring an accessible graduate emergency management program to the region and beyond,” says Professor Tiffany Danko. “I think this program serves a real need to provide advanced education for emergency managers and those concerned with resiliency and building stronger communities. And USC Bovard College’s MS in Emergency Management ensures that this preparation is accessible for students regardless of where they are in the world or in life.”
The Master of Science in Emergency Management program prepares students to take emergency management leadership roles in organizations within the private and public sectors. Through courses in critical infrastructure, disaster planning, and operational coordination, graduates will develop strategic, tactical, and decision-making skills that address all phases of emergencies at the local, state, and federal levels.
Designed to fit students’ schedules and needs, the curriculum is provided in both a one- and two-year track. At 24 units, the program can be completed in just 12 months for students in the one-year track. No GRE is required, and students have their choice of three enrollment dates each year.
Watch the 2023 commencement ceremony here.
Learn more about earning your MS in Emergency Management from USC Bovard College.