PSCB 502 - Public Safety Administration
Hours: 3
This course covers foundational and advanced principles of public safety agency management and leadership. Students will explore topics such as organizational structure, resource allocation, personnel management, interagency collaboration, performance measurement, and the development of evidence-based public safety policies and practices. The course emphasizes strategic planning, decision-making, and innovative approaches to meet the evolving challenges faced by public safety organizations.

PSCB 505 - Emergency Management and Disaster Response
Hours: 3
This course provides an in-depth examination of emergency management frameworks, with a focus on preparedness, response coordination, and recovery efforts. Students will analyze case studies of natural disasters, man-made crises, and mass emergencies to gain practical experience in incident command, resource allocation, communication strategies, and the implementation of effective disaster mitigation and recovery plans. The course also covers the role of public-private partnerships and community engagement in emergency management.

PSCB 506 - Foundations of Emergency Management and Disaster Preparedness
Hours: 3
This course provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and frameworks that guide emergency management. Students will explore the core phases of the disaster management cycle, including hazard identification, risk analysis, mitigation planning, and the development of disaster preparedness initiatives. Learners will examine case studies of past disasters to gain practical insights into the challenges and best practices in emergency planning and preparedness at the organizational and community levels.

PSCB 511 - Risk Assessment and Mitigation Strategies
Hours: 3
This course equips students with advanced techniques for assessing and mitigating risks associated with natural and human-caused disasters. Learners will apply quantitative and qualitative risk analysis methodologies, such as hazard vulnerability assessments, to identify, prioritize, and address potential threats. Building on this foundation, students will design and implement comprehensive risk mitigation strategies, including the development of contingency plans, the allocation of resources, and the integration of resilience-building measures into organizational policies and community development initiatives.

PSCB 542 - Crisis Communication and Public Information Management
Hours: 3
This course examines best practices in crisis communication and public information management to help students develop the skills necessary to lead public messaging efforts that is critical before, during, and after a disaster. Learners will explore theories and frameworks for crafting targeted, culturally appropriate communication plans, managing media relations, and disseminating vital information to diverse stakeholders. Students will also learn to leverage emerging communication technologies and social media platforms to enhance public awareness, facilitate community engagement, and maintain transparency during emergency situations.

PSCB 552 - Post-Disaster Recovery and Community Resilience
Hours: 3
This course focuses on the long-term recovery and resilience-building efforts that communities undertake in the aftermath of disasters. Students will analyze case studies to understand the social, economic, and environmental impacts of disasters, as well as the unique challenges faced by vulnerable populations. Learners will design comprehensive recovery plans that address the immediate and ongoing needs of affected communities, incorporating strategies to rebuild infrastructure, restore essential services, support mental health and well-being, and enhance community preparedness for future events. The course emphasizes the importance of inclusive, equitable, and sustainable approaches to foster long-term resilience and growth.

PSCB 560 - Criminology and Crime Prevention
Hours: 3
This course explores contemporary criminological theories and their applications in developing evidence-based crime prevention programs. Students will assess crime patterns, risk factors, and the effectiveness of various intervention strategies. Through case studies and data analysis, learners will design comprehensive crime reduction initiatives that address the root causes of criminal behavior and enhance public safety within diverse communities. Prerequisites: PSCB 502, PSCB 505.

PSCB 565 - Legal and Ethical Issues in Public Safety
Hours: 3
This course examines the legal frameworks, policy considerations, and ethical challenges faced by public safety professionals. Students will analyze constitutional rights, civil liability, use of force, privacy concerns, and other legal and ethical dilemmas. The course emphasizes the development of decision-making skills, critical thinking, and the application of ethical principles to navigate complex situations and maintain public trust. Prerequisites: PSCB 502, PSCB 505.

PSCB 577 - Risk Assessment and Management
Hours: 3
This course introduces risk assessment methodologies in the public safety context. Students will learn to identify, analyze, and mitigate risks through the application of quantitative and qualitative techniques. Using real-world scenarios and case studies, learners will develop skills in threat assessment, vulnerability analysis, and the implementation of risk management strategies to enhance the resilience of public safety organizations and the communities they serve. Prerequisites: PSCB 502, PSCB 505, PSCB 560.

PSCB 595 - Research Literature and Techniques
Hours: 3
This course is designed to help students learn the key elements in the process of designing and conducting an applied research project: writing an introduction; stating a purpose or research aims for the study; identifying research questions and hypotheses; and advancing methods and procedures for data collection, analysis, and interpretation. This course will also cover a variety of research methods commonly used. Students will also take their comprehensive exams as a part of this course for completion of their master’s degree. Students are not allowed to accelerate into this course during a term. Prerequisites: PSCB 502, PSCB 505, PSCB 560, PSCB 565.