Preparing for the Unexpected is a Profession
Every day, emergency management professionals around the world are working hard to safeguard people from natural, technological or human-caused incidents. The demand for knowledgeable and competent emergency managers, planners and responders contributing to safer, more resilient and sustainable communities is on the rise in Canada and globally, and CBU is the Atlantic Canadian university that focuses on the applied aspects of Emergency Management.

The study of Emergency Management is about understanding hazards, risks and vulnerabilities, and how to deal with them. It’s about everything that can be done to prevent and mitigate, prepare for, respond to and recover from all sorts of emergencies and disasters by developing, implementing, maintaining and evaluating strategic management processes.

This interdisciplinary applied program will prepare and support students to gain a holistic understanding of how Emergency Management interacts with other disciplines such as communications, business, political science and public health.

Why study at CBU?
There’s no place in the world like Cape Breton when it comes to accessing diverse businesses, landscapes and experiences. Not only will you develop core competencies in prevention, mitigation, preparedness, responsiveness and recovery, but you’ll also draw on other courses to help round out your skills.



Courses in business, communication, political science and public health will support you in developing a sound understanding of the varied social, political, economic and health contexts within which the profession of emergency management operates.

With three program options offered either entirely online or on campus, part or full-time, you can choose an education that fits your personal and professional goals.

What skills will I gain from this program?
Critical understanding of emergency management.
Ability to perform key emergency management functions.
Practical experience and skills development.
Strategic and critical thinking, leadership and management.
Assess and work effectively in different situations.
Improve public policy and protect communities.

Public sector
Private sector
Non-governmental organizations
First response agencies, public safety and volunteer organizations