Homeland Security Emergency Management Certificate

The Homeland Security Emergency Management (HSEM) Certificate program is designed to prepare the next generation of homeland security and emergency management leaders. The Homeland Security Emergency Management certificate is designed to prepare students to coordinate disaster response and recovery efforts and navigate the administrative and technical demands of disaster and emergency management efforts. The Federal Department of Labor identifies homeland security as a high-demand field, one that requires a large number of trained professionals across a number of industry sectors. Students are required to have access to computer, internet, and browser. This degree can be completed online. Visit the HSEM website at pencol.edu/program/homeland-security-emergency-management. 

Program Length: 2 Quarters
Program Code: CMRHSC20

Program Goals

• Encourages students to question, search for answers and meaning, and develop ideas that lead to action.
• Provides up to date curriculum that adapts to the rapidly changing field of Homeland Emergency Management.
• The Peninsula College Homeland Security Emergency Management certificate is significantly more cost effective than most private and public schools.

Special Features

Careful consideration is given to help students understand related socio-economic and cultural diversity issues, preparing them to succeed in all situations and environments. Graduates of this program may apply to the Peninsula College Homeland Security and Emergency Management Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree.

Program Outcomes 

When this program is completed, the student will be able to:

• Apply effective interpersonal communication, critical thinking and decision making skills commensurate with a defined level of responsibility.
• Demonstrate knowledge of the coordination and collaboration within the structured system or location used to address HSEM incidents. 
• Apply the theory and application of planning strategies. 
• Demonstrate effective, efficient and timely communication for professionals working in the HSEM field. 
• Develop a plan communicating HSEM assessment and appropriate delivery of information to the public.
• Identify terrorism, causes of terrorism, preventing terrorist attacks, responding to terrorism attacks and avoidance in communication and leadership collapse.
• Analyze the context of public administration: the political system, the role of federalism, bureaucratic politics and power, and the various theories of administration that guide public managers.

Program Prerequisites

Students entering this program should have good familiarity with computer software and hardware in the Windows or MAC environment. College-level skills in English and math (eligibility for courses numbered 100 or higher) are required before registering for the English, math, or applied math courses in this program. Students may need to complete prerequisite coursework. The ASSET or COMPASS test will help determine placement level if not known. Previous coursework may also indicate placement level. 2.0 minimum grade in all HSEM courses.

Career Opportunities and Earnings 

The Federal Department of Labor identifies homeland security as a "high-demand field", one that requires a large number of trained professionals across a number of industry sectors.  

Emergency management specialists coordinate disaster response or crisis management activities, provide disaster preparedness training, and prepare emergency plans and procedures. Wages often begin around 36.00/hour.

*Prospective Homeland Security Emergency Management students should be aware of the fact that HSEM employment candidates may be subject to background checks. 

Approximate Additional Costs

• Books, supplies and miscellaneous fees (per quarter): $200-$250
• Tuition and fees: $3,144.64 total based on 2024-25 WA resident tuition rates (additional fees may apply)
  • First quarter (12 credits): $1,572.32
  • Second quarter (12 credits): $1,572.32

Sample Schedule  

This sample schedule is provided as a guide for a full-time student starting in fall quarter whose goal is to earn a certificate. The typical student schedule is based on entering the program during the fall quarter, however some programs allow students to enter in the winter or spring as well. Since not all do, please confirm with an advisor whether this program must be started during a specific quarter or not.    

A criminal history may inhibit your ability to find employment in the Homeland Security and Emergency Management fields. In addition, any recent history of drug use, including marijuana, may preclude you from federal employment. If you have any concerns please speak with and advisor.