Idaho State University offers online emergency management degree in virtual classroom

If you’re considering a career in emergency management or enhancing your knowledge, enroll in Idaho State University’s new online Associate of Science degree in emergency management.

Idaho State University’s College of Technology is offering the two-year degree this fall. Classes begin Tuesday, Aug. 25.

“You can complete the program anywhere in the world—a tremendous convenience for working professionals who want to advance their education but are unable to leave their communities,” said program adviser Mike Mikitish, director of ISU-Boise’s Institute of Emergency Management.

The Department of Labor includes careers in emergency management in its Top 20 List of Growing Professions in the U.S., and projects a 28 percent increase in demand for emergency management specialists by 2012. Idaho is expected to see an increase in demand for emergency service workers through 2014.

The ISU degree will be offered online in a virtual classroom, says Mikitish, noting students will have the opportunity to interact verbally with faculty and classmates. Technology requirements include a computer with 20 megabytes of free disk space, a sound card with speakers, and a microphone or headset.

Mikitish says ISU is the only public university in Idaho to offer the Associate of Science degree in emergency management. Coursework will emphasize critical-thinking skills that will prepare graduates for careers in management, leadership, emergency planning and response. Curriculum will follow the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Emergency Management Higher Education Project.

In fall 2010, ISU plans to offer the upper division courses for the Bachelor of Science degree in emergency management.

For more information, contact Mikitish at (208) 373-1763, e-mail him at mikimich@isu.edu or visit http://www.isu.edu/ctech/emergencymanagement/.

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Media Contact: Chris Gabettas, University Relations, ISU, (208) 373-1806, gabechri@isu.edu