Cybersecurity is an important threat and vulnerability issue that cuts across multiple domains.

The cybersecurity policy and management concentration within the MA program in emergency management and homeland security provides motivated students with knowledge, skills and abilities to assume leadership, key management and other key operational positions with public sector agencies (or related private sector organizations) with responsibilities related to managing cybersecurity hazards in the area of homeland security, emergency management, critical infrastructure protection, risk management and other related fields.

This concentration is uniquely geared toward professionals in emergency management, homeland security, critical infrastructure protection, hazard mitigation, planning and emergency preparedness who do not seek nor require highly technical training in cybersecurity (beyond a basic competency level) but, instead, have major operational responsibilities that pertain to cyber-related vulnerabilities. This program is a unique contribution: It provides education and training on cyber policy and management issues for general administrators. Further, it leverages the PLuS Alliance for course offerings.

Students serve and promote stronger and more resilient communities across public, private or nonprofit sector organizations. The program emphasizes a blended approach of practical knowledge and broader integrative thinking about the complex societal challenges of the 21st century. Its core values of collaboration between practitioners, faculty and students, public service, commitment to diversity, critical thinking and evidence-based assessment are all central to promoting informed and effective leadership.