Homeland Security Emergency Management Tribal Certificate

The Tribal Homeland Security Emergency Management Certificate (Tribal HSEM) is specifically designed for tribal emergency management professionals. Graduates of this certificate are prepared for leadership roles in the rapidly evolving Tribal HSEM profession for their tribe and its neigh-boring communities. Students are required to have access to computer, internet, and browser. This certificate can be completed online. Visit the HSEM website at pencol.edu/program/homeland-security-emergency-management.  

Program Length: 3 Quarters
Program Code: CRMTHC20

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 Tribal Homeland Emergency Management.
• The Peninsula College Tribal 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
• Identify the various laws, policies, roles and responsibilities of Emergency Tribal Management
• Describe hazard mitigation and the Disaster Declaration Process as applicable to federally recognized Native American Tribes
• Recognize incident management structures that Tribes and Alaska Native Villages utilize in emergency management
• Identify the key elements that must be in place for technology to enhance the emergency management process
• Prepare, coordinate, and disseminate information released during emergency operations
• Examine the critical role of an Emergency Operations or Coordination Center (EOC/ECC) when disasters strike or in support of pre-planned events
• Describe the importance of protecting, preserving, and restoring both tangible and intangible cultural heritage in the face of disasters and emergencies
• Articulate how emergency management professionals can inform their disaster planning utilizing traditional knowledge
• Design, develop and review exercises and selected training against the most current emergency management standards and policies

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 

Potential positions include: executive assistant, legal assistant, medical 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: $3,555.50 total based on 2024-25 WA resident tuition rates (additional fees may apply)
  • First quarter (10 credits): $1,419.90
  • Second quarter (7 credits): $997.38
  • Third quarter (8 credits): $1,138.22

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.