Emergency Services & Disaster Preparedness Degrees
Earn your degree online from LSU, LSUA or LSUE—in a format designed for working professionals.
BENEFITS
Why Emergency Services & Disaster Preparedness?
Flexible Learning
Save Time and Money
Increase Your Earning Potential
Complete coursework on your schedule with these 100% online programs.
Transfer up to 60 previously earned credits toward your bachelor’s degree or 24 credits toward your associate degree.
According to the BLS, emergency management directors earn a median annual salary of $83,960.1
EMERGENCY SERVICES & DISASTER PREPAREDNESS
Featured Degrees
Disaster Preparedness & Response
Bachelor of Science — LSUA
LSU Alexandria's online Bachelor of Science in Disaster Preparedness and Response equips students with the skills to plan and coordinate proactive measures that reduce risks and strengthen resilience. Students learn how to identify vulnerabilities, evaluate threats, and develop comprehensive strategies that protect lives, property, and infrastructure. This program blends theory and hands-on application to prepare graduates to handle all phases of the disaster cycle—from mitigation and preparedness to coordinated response and long-term recovery.
Admissions Requirements:
- ACT composite of 20 or higher
- OR high school core GPA of 2.0 or higher
Fire and Emergency Services Administration
Bachelor of Science — LSU
Take your emergency services career to the next level with the online Bachelor of Science in Fire and Emergency Services Administration. The program offers a 2+2 structure, meaning you can transfer up to 60 credits from an Associate of Applied Science in Fire and Emergency Services or a degree in a related field. This 2+2 pathway can help you complete your bachelor's faster. In the program, you'll develop advanced skills in disaster response planning, risk management, and organizational leadership. Specialize in Disaster Science & Management and Construction Management to focus your expertise. Graduates are equipped to step into roles like fire chief, emergency manager, or safety director.
Admissions Requirements:
- Have a college grade point average of at least 2.5
- Up to 60 credit hours from another institution can transfer into this program
- Have an Associate of Applied Science in Fire and Emergency Services or a related field
- Please discuss with your academic advisor and/or enrollment coach to determine if and how many prior college credits earned will apply toward your degree
- Full admissions requirements can be found at online.lsu.edu or by speaking to an enrollment coach
Fire and Emergency Services
Associate of Applied Science — LSUE
Kickstart your career in fire and emergency services with this online Associate of Applied Science degree. This program is designed for flexibility, allowing you to balance work and studies while gaining essential skills for the field. Choose from two concentrations (Fire Service Technology or Emergency Services Technology) and earn up to 24 credits for prior certifications to save time and money. After graduation, you'll be ready for roles like firefighter or EMT, or you can pursue a bachelor's degree to further your career.
Admissions Requirements:
- Submit ACT scores (determines course placement, counseling, and scholarships)
- Must have graduated from a state-approved high school or have a GED or HiSET
- Have not attended another college or university
ABOUT
Emergency Services Programs
FESHE Recognition
LSUE's associate program is one of only seven associate programs recognized by FESHE.
Expert Faculty
Faculty includes field-experienced experts who have dealt with fire and emergency response, safety, and hazardous materials incidents.
Unmatched Student Support
All online students have access to dedicated Enrollment and Student Success Coaches.
Industry-Aligned Specializations
Gain expertise in disaster science and management, construction management, fire service technology, or emergency services technology.
About the FESHE Recognition
Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education
RECOGNITION
The LSU Eunice Fire and Emergency Services program has received The Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education (FESHE) Recognition, according to the United States Fire Administration. This is an acknowledgment that the program meets the standards of excellence established by FESHE professional development committees and the National Fire Academy. LSUE is one of only seven institutions nationwide that carry the FESHE Recognition certificate at the associate degree level. Only 21 institutions in total have FESHE Recognition at any level – associate, bachelor, and/or graduate.
Become the Emergency Response Leader Your Community Needs
The online emergency services & disaster preparedness programs from LSU, LSUA and LSUE are made to empower both emerging professionals and experienced responders. These degrees focus on practical skills in fire science, disaster management, and leadership, all delivered through a flexible online format. Through expert faculty and a nationally recognized curriculum, you'll gain the tools to lead emergency response efforts, manage risks, and protect communities. Whether you're looking to advance in your current role or pivot into a leadership position, these programs are your path to success.
CAREERS IN FIRE & EMERGENCY SERVICES
Job Trends & Salaries
$75,480
$86,130
Overall employment of fire inspectors is projected to grow 6 percent by 2033, faster than the average for all occupations.1
6%
The median annual wage for fire inspectors was $75,480 in 2024.1
The median annual wage for emergency management directors was $86,130 in 2024.1
DON'T JUST TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT
Hear From Faculty
Today's fire and emergency services leaders must adapt to a rapidly changing environment. Gone are the days when the only requirements were guts and leather lungs. This program is designed to help students develop the leadership and critical thinking skills needed to lead organizations through evolving changes."
Dr. Darryl E. Jones
Ph.D., CFO, EFO
Associate Professor
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
You Might Be Wondering
Will my degree say I earned it online?
Will I pay out-of-state tuition if I am outside of Louisiana?
How do online classes work?
Get More Information
ENROLL TODAY
Talk to an Enrollment Coach
Enrollment Coaches are happy to answer any questions you have about LSU Online programs. As part of your dedicated student support team, we're here for you from application to graduation. Let us help you take the first step toward advancing your educational goals.
The information provided on this website is intended for general informational purposes only and is subject to change without notice. While we strive to use reputable sources, we do not control the content provided by third parties. Visit ce.lsu.edu or online.lsu.edu for more information. Complete degree program admission requirements are not listed on this page. Alternative requirements may be applied depending on your personal situation. All programs of the LSU system are accredited under the institution’s accreditation (A&M, Shreveport, Alexandria, Eunice, HSC-NOLA, H-Shreveport). Visit online.lsu.edu for more information.
1Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
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