A healthy and secure society requires public safety. Public health involves preventing, protecting, and responding to various threats and hazards.
It is common for public safety agencies to work together to respond to natural disasters, such as hurricanes, earthquakes, and severe weather events. These agencies may also respond to human-caused incidents such as riots, accidents, terrorist attacks, and cyberattacks. It is common for public safety agencies to work together to respond to natural disasters. For example, during the 2023 Hawaii wildfires, local police officers carried out heroic rescues, some even continued helping others while their own homes were burning. In Hurricane Idalia (2023), over 1,500 federal staff and 900 Coast Guard members were deployed to support Florida communities, while FEMA set up disaster recovery centers
An individual who wishes to work in the public safety field or in an organization that deals with such issues must possess a public safety degree, as it will teach the individual how to protect the public during emergencies and formulate the necessary strategies to do so. Additionally, the degree develops leadership skills, which will assist you in leading and managing your team of public safety officials.
Those seeking a public safety career path will find this guide insightful, providing in-depth information about a public safety degree, as well as some of the best colleges that offer it.
What is a Public Safety Degree?
A public safety degree is a college or university program that prepares students for careers in protecting the public and maintaining community security. It covers a broad mix of courses like emergency management, law enforcement, fire services, homeland security, corrections, and disaster response. Students learn leadership, crisis management, and legal knowledge to work in police departments, fire agencies, government security, and emergency services. These degrees are offered at the associate, bachelor’s, and master’s levels, and each stage prepares the students for the next step in their career.
Online Public Safety Administration Degree: What to Expect?
Students pursuing an online degree in public safety administration take courses in administration, crisis management, and finance. The courses prepare students for administrative positions in law enforcement, fire services, correctional facilities, and disaster relief. As part of this degree program, you will study the following subjects:
- Emergency Management and Disaster Response: Be prepared to lead during situations of natural disasters such as hurricanes, storms, and terrorist attacks.
- Criminal Justice Systems: Understand the police, corrections, and judicial systems.
- Homeland Security: Protect infrastructure and prevent domestic terrorism threats.
- Public Policy and Administration: The role played by government regulations and policies in public safety operations.
- Organizational Leadership: Manage teams, human resources, conflict resolution, and ethical leadership.
- Budgeting and Finance: Manage public sector budgets and grant writing.
Public Safety degree vs. Homeland Security: Which one Fits You?
There are many noteworthy differences between a public safety degree and homeland security. Choosing between the two depends on your career goals as well as interests.
The public security degree offers a broader education focused on managing emergency services, such as law and order, fire safety, and public health. This degree is ideal for those who want leadership roles in protective services for communities, like police departments, fire departments, or disaster management agencies.
A homeland security degree, on the other hand, is more focused on learning about protecting the nation from external threats like terrorism, cyber threats, border security risks, and natural disasters. It’s perfect for individuals interested in national-level security, intelligence analysis, or counterterrorism operations.
While both fields involve crisis management and public protection, Public Safety emphasizes community leadership and operational management, whereas Homeland Security emphasizes threat prevention and national defense strategies. Here is a detailed comparison of both degree types:
| Feature | Public Safety | Homeland Security |
| Focus | Community protection and emergency management | National security and threat prevention |
| Career Fields | Law enforcement, fire services, and emergency response | Intelligence, counterterrorism, cybersecurity |
| Typical Employers | Police, fire departments, and city agencies | DHS, TSA, FEMA, cybersecurity firms |
| Ideal for | Leadership in public services | Specialized federal or private security roles |
| Skill Emphasis | Management, communication, risk mitigation | Threat analysis, emergency planning, cyber defense |
Accredited Online Public Safety Degrees with Flexible Options
Here are some accredited online public safety degrees that you can check out if you are thinking of pursuing a career in this field:
Associate Degrees
- Franklin University
When it comes to your career, every milestone counts, so earn your Associate of Applied Science in Public Safety to stay on track. Through Franklin’s 100% online associate program, you will receive maximum credit for professional training, allowing you to complete your degree more quickly. In addition, Franklin’s partnerships with employers and professional organizations will allow you to lower your remaining tuition costs. Furthermore, The A.A.S. program provides you with the credits you need to seamlessly transition into Franklin’s B.S. Criminal Justice Administration or B.S. Public Safety Management + Leadership program if you are looking to further progress in your career.
- Degree Link: AAS in Public Safety
- Cost: $23,880
- Acceptance rate: 100%
2. Purdue University Global
Purdue Global’s Associate of Applied Science in Public Safety and Security is designed to prepare students for careers in criminal justice administration, public safety management, public safety, disaster recovery, and private investigations. This program provides students with the fundamental skills, knowledge, and communication abilities needed in today’s fast-paced world of public safety, both at the private and governmental levels. Following graduation, you may find employment in a variety of criminal justice settings, including law enforcement, courts, adult and juvenile correctional centers, private security companies, and public safety.
- Degree Link: AAS in Public Safety and Security
- Cost: $22,700
- Acceptance rate: 100%
3. Central Piedmont Community College
Central Piedmont Community College’s Associate in Applied Science in Public Safety Administration program is a great option for those interested in a career as either an administrator, a leader, a financial manager, or in incident management.
It offers you the opportunity to develop your skills and credentials in order to be a valuable asset to emergency management agencies, fire departments, private companies, universities, and educational institutions. By offering both on-campus and online options, you will be able to customize your public safety training to suit your individual needs. Students who enroll in this program are taught by professors with relevant qualifications and public safety experience.
- Degree Link: AAS in Public Safety Administration
- Cost: $4,560
- Acceptance rate: 100%
4. Wake Tech
With a Public Safety Administration AAS degree from Wake Tech, students and practitioners will gain the technical, managerial, and administrative skills necessary for entry into or advancement within a variety of public safety or government organizations. This program includes courses on many topics such as working with other agencies, leading during emergencies, managing government budgets, following professional standards, handling incidents, understanding government laws, and supervising others. The following employers offer employment opportunities: fire or police departments, emergency management organizations, government agencies, industrial companies, prisons, private companies, insurance companies, and educational institutions.
- Degree Link: AAS in Public Safety Administration
- Cost: $4,940
- Acceptance rate: 100%
5. Montgomery County Community College
As part of the Public Safety Administration Associate of Science degree program at Montgomery County Community College, participants will learn how to prevent and manage emergencies from occurring and how to respond to them. Applicants who are interested in disaster relief, response, preparedness, and recovery in the intersection of civil justice, fire science, public health, and emergency management should consider applying to this program. Upon completion of this degree, you will be prepared for entry-level work or to continue your education in a bachelor’s degree program in law enforcement administration or a closely related field.
- Degree Link: AAS in Public Safety Administration
- Cost: $7,093 per year
- Acceptance rate: 100%
Bachelor Degrees
- University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC)
A bachelor’s degree in public safety administration online from the University of Maryland Global Campus will prepare you for a career in leadership and decision-making. The online degree program was developed exclusively for working public safety professionals who wish to enhance their knowledge and acquire new skills. As you progress through the program, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of current leadership theories, ethical concerns, technological barriers, and research methodologies. Besides financial literacy courses, you will also take courses on public policy, enabling you to broaden your horizons and stand out from the competition. As part of your capstone course, you will utilize the skills you have learned and prepare a case study concerning a pressing public safety issue.
- Degree Link: BS in Public Safety Administration
- Cost: $40,010
- Acceptance rate: 100%
2. St. Petersburg College
An online bachelor’s degree in Public Safety Administration from St. Petersburg College will prepare you to assume leadership roles in today’s public safety agencies.
The public safety administration degree offers a variety of sub-plans, including courses in Cybercrime, Criminal Justice, Homeland Security and Emergency Management, Fire Science, and Cross Discipline (Combination).
You will learn critical thinking and problem-solving skills as part of your bachelor’s degree program in Public Safety Administration. During this program, you will also learn the process of establishing, evaluating, and improving human resources and productivity.
- Degree Link: BAS in Public Safety Administration
- Cost:$15,868
- Acceptance rate: 100%
3. Charter Oak State College
The Charter Oak University Public Safety Administration degree offers online degree completion opportunities that accept up to 90 credit hours earned at nationally accredited two-year colleges. Any individual involved in law enforcement, criminal justice, firefighters, or homeland security would benefit from this public safety degree program. Those participating in this program are provided with the opportunity to enhance their careers in public safety, receive cutting-edge training in public safety, and obtain professional recognition upon graduation.
- Degree Link: BS in Public Safety Administration
- Cost: $41,920
- Acceptance rate: 100%
4. Wilfrid Laurier University
The Bachelor of Arts in Public Safety program offered by Wilfrid Laurier University is designed for persons wishing to pursue careers in public safety sectors, including law enforcement, fire services, and emergency management. Throughout the program, an interdisciplinary curriculum is used to emphasize critical thinking and practical application. Students will learn topics such as emergency management, digital technology, and leadership ethics during these courses.
For the analysis of crime maps and emergency incidents, the curriculum includes simulations and scenario-based instruction using tools such as ArcGIS Pro.
- Degree Link: BAS in Public Safety
- Cost: CAD $6,744 per year
- Acceptance rate: 89%
5. Seminole State College
The Bachelor of Science in Public Safety Administration degree program at Seminole State College focuses on providing students with the skills and knowledge they need to fill leadership roles that are critical for serving and protecting our communities. This program provides graduates with skills related to interpersonal relationships and critical thinking, as well as exposure to the fields and incidents of public safety risks. Through coursework, students are exposed to real-life scenarios, preparing them for employment in a wide range of high-skill fields, including crime scene investigations, fire science, and emergency medical services.
- Degree Link: BS in Public Safety Administration
- Cost: $15,000
- Acceptance rate: 100%
Master Degrees
- University of Virginia
University of Virginia offers a Master’s degree in Public Safety online for public safety professionals who would like to improve their leadership abilities. In this program, we focus on developing today’s leaders in public safety in order to prepare them for tomorrow’s challenges. Among the subjects covered in the curriculum are law enforcement and public safety fields such as fire service, emergency management, and others. Graduates will be able to manage complex organizations more effectively, negotiate and collaborate with peers at all levels, and cultivate relationships that are essential for the successful operation of a nonprofit organization.
- Degree Link: Master of Public Safety
- Cost: $18,870
- Acceptance rate: 20%
2. Liberty University
Are you committed to ensuring the safety of your community members? Having a master’s degree in public safety from Liberty University will improve your ability to make effective decisions that will benefit those you serve.
With a specialization in criminal justice, fire administration, and homeland security, you are able to make a significant impact regardless of where you are. Having difficulty deciding which specialization to pursue? Depending on your needs, you may choose from the general track or combine courses. By earning an online master’s degree in public safety from Liberty University, you will be more prepared to pursue a new career, assume positions of increased responsibility, and make decisions that will improve the lives of those around you.
- Degree Link: MS in Public Safety
- Cost: $16,950
- Acceptance rate: 100%
3. Arizona State University (ASU)
The online Master of Public Safety Leadership and Administration degree from Arizona State University is perfect for public safety professionals who want to learn how to lead more effectively. This program offers you the opportunity to acquire leadership and management skills for law enforcement, firefighting, and emergency management organizations. There is a great deal of flexibility in this program, which allows you to explore the field broadly or focus your studies. By pursuing an ASU online concentration in public safety administration, you can tailor your learning path to a particular area of interest like a medical emergency service, a fire department, and a police department under the executive administration.
- Degree Link: MA in Public Safety Leadership and Administration
- Cost:$20,000
- Acceptance rate: 90%
4. Columbus State University
The Master of Public Safety Administration program at Columbus State University teaches you how to empower and serve others effectively and ethically. This program is especially relevant to law enforcement, firefighters, and emergency medical services personnel. By taking part in this program, you will learn about the allocation of resources in crisis and non-crisis situations, including disaster response, relief, and security concerns. You will also learn how teams are guided through the decision-making to save lives and improve social justice in the society.
- Degree Link: Master of Public Safety Administration
- Cost: $9,000
- Acceptance rate: 88%
5. Lewis University
Those who are interested in managing police, fire, emergency medical, private law enforcement, and other public safety positions in our society should consider Lewis University’s Master of Science in Public Safety Administration program. The course will provide you with an overview of public safety management, including theories and practices, developing solutions to public safety problems, and ensuring decisions are made in accordance with your responsibility to the community.
- Degree Link: MS in Public Safety Administration
- Cost: $22,320
- Acceptance rate: 73%
How to Choose the Right Public Safety Degree Program Online
Choosing the right online Public Safety degree program can feel confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are a few simple steps to help you make the best decision for your future.
- Know Your Career Goals
First, think about the kind of career or job you want. If you want to work in law enforcement, fire services, or emergency response, a Public Safety Administration degree is a good choice. Also, for those interested in cybersecurity or national security, a Homeland Security degree might be better.
- Choose the Right Degree Level
There are three main types of degrees: associate, bachelor’s, and master’s.
- An associate degree is best for starting your career.
- A bachelor’s degree is good for more advanced roles or promotions.
- A master’s degree is for leadership or high-level jobs.
- Check Accreditation
Always pick a school that is regionally accredited. This means it meets quality standards and your degree will be respected by employers. To verify accreditation for public safety degree programs, you should check with organizations like the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) and the Center for Public Safety Excellence (CPAE), CALEA accredits law enforcement agencies, while CPAE focuses on overall public safety excellence
- Compare Costs
Look at tuition and fees. Some schools offer financial aid or discounts for military and first responders. Make sure the program fits your budget.
- Look at Flexibility
If you’re working or have a family, an online public safety degree program with self-paced or part-time is a great option-some online programs also let you transfer credits from past education or work experience.
- Read Reviews
Check student reviews and graduation rates which can help you see if the program is worth your time and money.
Taking time to choose the right program now can lead to a better career later.
Is a Public Safety Degree Worth it?
A Public Safety degree can be a valuable investment for those aiming to serve and protect communities and work in organizations like law enforcement, emergency management, or homeland security. Many public safety jobs offer good job stability, benefits, and chances for promotion. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, police and detectives earned a median annual salary of $77,270 in May 2024, while emergency management directors earned around $84,690. Careers in occupational health and safety are also growing, with a 14% projected job growth and median wages of $83,910.For more on this refer to our career guide for graduates with a public safety major.
Conclusion
With a degree in public safety, you will be prepared to help protect and serve your community with confidence and leadership skills required for success. You will make an important difference in the world, and you will help save lives just by clocking in to work each day. We hope you find this guide on public safety management degrees helpful and informative.
