Career Paths

Nearly 100% of MSDM students are employed either when they graduate or, in some cases, prior to graduation. Having a Master of Security and Disaster Management degree helps the marketability of each student and it demonstrates your focus, discipline, knowledge and experience.

Having a master’s degree in security and disaster management provides the knowledge and skills to be successful in management and supervisor positions in the following career areas:

  • Disaster response coordination
  • Fire departments
  • Homeland security
  • Emergency medical services
  • Program coordination
  • Emergency management
  • Red Cross
  • Military
  • Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
  • Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
  • Local, state and federal government jobs
  • Law enforcement
  • Business continuity
  • Risk management
Current Job Postings
  • September 04, 2025

    Provides nursing expertise and leadership in medical/surgical, mental health and other specialty units throughout the institution.Responsible for the quality and appropriateness of comprehensive nursing care provided to patients where nursing care is provided.Monitors and evaluates nursing practice to promote consistency in performance and ensure safe patient care is provided.Serves as a resource person to other nursing staff.Supervises and monitors various inmate staffed health services programs functioning within the facility.Responsible for developing and approving the quarterly nursing unit work schedule.Participates in audits, program reviews and surveys by the institution, Bureau of Prisons, and the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations.Assures the components of the nursing process (assessment, diagnosis, planning, intervention, and evaluation) are carried out by nursing staff in all areas of responsibility.Along with all other correctional institution employees, incumbent is charged with responsibility for maintaining security of the institution. The staff correctional responsibilities precede all others required by this position and are performed on a regular and recurring basis.

  • September 03, 2025

    Description of JobThis position functions at an entry level training classification into the Park Manager series:Year one Working Title: "Park Ranger Trainee" Years two and three Working Title: "Park Ranger" As a Park Ranger Trainee, this position attends a Colorado Peace Officer Standards & Training (POST) certified law enforcement academy and at the successful completion of this training, is certified as a Colorado Peace Officer in accordance with the official duties and authority of Colorado Parks and Wildlife. After certification, additional training incorporates classroom education and field exercises that provide knowledge and practical experience to optimize successful performance in the role and support career progression. Park Ranger Trainees work within the Field Services Unit and are trained in CPW park operations, State's laws, rules, regulations, statutes, beginning supervision, and park management techniques. IMPORTANT NOTE: Candidates offered a position must be willing and able to accept an assignment to a State Park and remain at that Park for a minimum of two years. Specific learning objectives during the first year include but are not limited to: Participates in POST training to achieve certification, is ultimately commissioned at the discretion of the Director of the Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and applies knowledge and techniques in a field setting.Disseminates and communicates information concerning park management, data, regulations, public outreach, and conducts educational and interpretive activities to internal and external stakeholders (schools, civic groups, sporting clubs, etc). Understands the responsibilities and expectations of a Park Ranger to represent the Division in a professional manner.Applies natural resource management plans, stewardship plans, improvement projects, habitat assessment, inventories, and other field training in order to protect and preserve native wildlife, plants, and ecosystems in and around state parks.Participates in various certification training including Wilderness First Responder, Swift Water Rescue, and other valuable training.Performs patrols through operation of boats, Off-Highway Vehicles (OHV), and snowmobiles.Enforces Park's laws and regulations and investigates alleged law violations, seizes equipment and arranges for disposition of illegal activities under the leadership of a commissioned officer.Other duties as assigned.  Minimum Qualifications, Substitutions, Conditions of Employment & Appeal Rights Minimum Qualifications: Four (4) years of appropriate work experience in natural resource management, outdoor recreation management, parks enforcement, or parks administration. Appropriate work experience includes the following:Preparing and delivering environmental education and/or interpretation programs for park visitors on a regular basis, park enforcement (any title of the law, county or municipal code enforcement that applies to laws regulations) in a park (equivalent to a State, County or National park)  or outdoor recreation setting.Applying the principles, practices, and techniques of natural resource management to resolve problems and effect improvements in habitat and/or environmental impact statements; supervising, planning, organizing, and/or directing a program for the development and utilization/protection of a park or outdoor recreation facility. Assisting in/overseeing the collection, recording, presentation, and/or analysis of research data (related to natural resources, recreation, forest management, etc); professional forest or range management; designing, conducting, analyzing and interpreting the results of resource management experiments; and protecting the quality of natural resources/the environment.OR A combination of education in any field of study and/or relevant experience in an occupation related to the work assigned equal to four (4) years. Note: If you are using education to meet minimum qualifications and are expected to graduate after 9/30/2025 and before 12/31/2025, please specify in the application's supplemental question.Transcripts must be submitted at the time of application as a document uploaded to your application if you are using education to meet the minimum qualifications. Please be advised that if your transcripts are not attached and you do not meet the substitution criteria described below, you will be removed from consideration and you would need to submit a new application before the closing date/time with your transcripts to move forward in the consideration process. Note: If you expect to graduate after 09/30/2025 and before 12/31/2025, please specify in the application's supplemental question.Preferred Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Qualifications The below assessed throughout the process and at different steps: Strong written and oral communication skills Experience providing customer serviceExperience leading/mentoring othersExperience with public speaking/presenting and/or facilitating meetingsKnowledge of or experience with Park Management techniques and/or principlesAbility or experience working in a team environmentKnowledge of or experience with working in outdoor conditions, including principles of safety in the outdoors.At least a bachelor's degree in natural resources management, natural sciences, earth sciences, environmental science, biology, ecology, forestry, geology, range management, wildlife biology, wildlife management, zoology, *outdoor recreation management, *parks administration, or *parks managementConditions of Employment  Must be willing and able to submit to, and pass a background investigation, which includes the following:Felony convictionsDomestic Violence charges/convictions/restraining ordersDriving under the Influence/Impaired and/or boating under the Influence/Impaired convictionsMisdemeanor convictions that preclude being P.O.S.T certified as a Colorado Peace Officer.Fingerprint submission and checkPolygraphMoral turpitudeSuitability interview, and psychological examination (administered by a third party professional organization)Drug Screening (administered by a third party professional organization).Medical physical exam from a medical professional (administered by a third party professional organization).Must be able to wear a full duty uniform, including a ballistic vest and a duty belt weighing approximately 20 pounds, for extended periods (up to 8 hours or more per shift).Must be willing and able to obtain a State of Colorado drivers' license no later than the first day of employment if selected for hire.IMPORTANT - Federal law maintains prohibition of illegal drugs. If you have used marijuana within the past 12 months preceding your employment and/or used any illegal drugs within the past 36 months preceding your employment you will be disqualified from the process and will not advance further.If you have been convicted of a felony or any domestic violence charge, and/or been convicted of any misdemeanors which preclude POST certification as a Colorado Peace Officer you will be disqualified from the process and will not advance further.  Please see link: Decertifying Misdemeanors Colorado POST (Download PDF reader).If you receive a conditional job offer, you must pass the POST Academy and CPW's Field Training Program within the 12-month probationary period.Former State employees who were disciplinarily terminated or resigned in lieu of termination must disclose the information on the application and provide an explanation why the prior termination or resignation should not disqualify their application from the current position.  (Please Note: Absent extraordinary circumstances, prior disciplinary termination or resignation in lieu of termination will disqualify the applicant from future State employment with DNR).Pursuant to the DNR-120 Fleet and Driving Standards Administrative Directive, any worker who will be expected to drive a State-owned vehicle is responsible for maintaining a safe driving record and a valid driver license prior to driving any State-owned vehicle. To be compliant with the new fleet vehicle policy, Motor Vehicle Records (MVRs) will be pulled for review for workers who: Have an assigned State fleet vehicleAre required to operate a vehicle as part of the positionUtilize a State fleet vehicle as a pool vehicle 

  • September 02, 2025

    Bring your degree in Environmental Management or a related field to bear on the many environmental protection missions of the Coast Guard like ship safety, disaster response, and administration of national and international laws controlling pollution. Career path: Officers commissioned through DCEM should expect assignments in either the prevention or response subspecialties related to Environmental Management.Starting rank: Up to the rank of lieutenant (O-3).Commitment: Three years of active duty.Eligibility RequirementsOfficer: Direct Commission Environmental Manager (DCEM)Age:21–41**on 30 Sept. of the fiscal year the selection panel convenes.Citizenship:Must be a U.S. citizen.Dependents:Single: Any primary custody dependents require a waiver and dependent care plan.Married: No more than three dependents, including spouse.GPA:No requirements.Education:A bachelor’s degree or higher in a field listed belowIf applicant is an active duty Coast Guard E-5 with at least four years of Coast Guard service (at least two of which must be on active duty) then alternatively:An associate’s degree or higher in a field listed belowEligible FieldsEnvironmental -Management, -Economics, -Biology, -Sciences, -Health & Safety, -Policy, -Planning, or -Engineering, Fisheries Management, or Natural Resources ManagementMilitary Service:No more than 12 years of non-Coast Guard active-duty (or 14 years cumulative) military service. Members currently in another military service (or Reserve) must have an approved DD368 (conditional release).Medical Requirements:Must meet commissioning physical standards, including normal color vision. 

  • September 02, 2025

    Are you a cyber professional or military member with cyber experience? Then the USCG Direct Commission Cyber Officer (DCCO) program is for you. Career path: Your assignments joining through DCCO will primarily be in engineering, in the subspecialty matching your experience.Starting rank: Up to the rank of lieutenant (O-3).Commitment: Three years of active duty. Eligibility RequirementsOfficer: Direct Commission Cyber Officer (DCCO)Age:21–41**on 30 Sept. of the fiscal year the selection panel convenes.Citizenship:Must be a U.S. citizen.Dependents:Single: Any primary custody dependents require a waiver and dependent care plan.Married: No more than three dependents, including spouse.GPA:No requirements.Education:A bachelor's degree or higher.If applicant is an active duty Coast Guard E-5 with at least four years of Coast Guard service (at least two of which must be on active duty) then alternatively an associate's degree.Military Service:No more than 12 years of non-Coast Guard active-duty (or 14 years cumulative) military service. Members currently in another military service (or Reserve) must have an approved DD368 (conditional release).Medical Requirements:Must meet commissioning physical standards, including normal color vision.  

  • September 02, 2025

    Apply to this opportunity here: www.phila.gov/jobs  All applications will be accepted from 09/01/2025 to 09/28/2025.As an employer, the City of Philadelphia values inclusion, integrity, innovation, empowerment, and hard work above all else. We offer a vibrant work environment, comprehensive health care and benefits, and the experience you need to grow and excel. If you’re interested in working with a passionate team of people who care about the future of Philadelphia, start here.  What we offer Impact - The work you do here matters to millions.  Growth - Philadelphia is growing, why not grow with it?  Diversity & Inclusion - Find a career in a place where everyone belongs. Benefits - We care about your well-being.  General Job Description: This is training-level work in general duty police activities, involving the protection of life and property, enforcement of laws, and investigation of crimes. An employee in this class receives formal training at the Police Academy and on-the-job experience preparatory to assuming full patrol duties. Work requires regular exposure to uncontrolled and/or unpredictable conditions.  The work requires frequent exercise of moderate physical effort.The Requirements are as follows:  EDUCATION:Education equivalent to the completion of high school.ANDAGE REQUIREMENT:Must be Twenty (20) years of age at the time of appointment to the class. Send certifications or transcripts for review to: Charlene Clark-SmithEmail: Charlene.clark@phila.gov  If you need any assistance, please feel free to contact: hrhelpdesk@phila.gov.

  • September 02, 2025

    This position works within the department's Information Technology Division. Under direct supervision, provides end-user technical support at police stations, administrative buildings, and operational sites in support of police field operations. Primary responsibilities include supporting and maintaining technologies such as body-worn cameras, docking stations, interview rooms, fleet systems, and network-connected devices. Also assists with network troubleshooting in coordination with the Department of Information Technology (DIT). Manages system user accounts, including creation, removal, and permission changes. Acts as a technical liaison between field staff, IT, DIT, and external vendors. Provides technical support for special projects and assist other team members as needed. Delivers end-user training and develop clear technical documentation for users and court personnel. Maintains an accurate physical inventory of all assigned equipment and coordinate timely upgrades and replacements. This position plays a critical role in supporting public safety operations by ensuring the reliability and functionality of essential police technology systems. Illustrative Duties(The illustrative duties listed in this specification are representative of the class but are not an all-inclusive list. A complete list of position duties and unique physical requirements can be found in the position job description.)Performs cable routing and termination, equipment installation and configuration, labeling, and documentation;Provides routine support for network and/or telecommunications functions;Responds to and prioritizes requests from users to provide guidance and assistance;Adds/deletes users;Proposes, develops, and implements documentation and procedures for determining and/or preventing problems;Assists the help desk in problem determination and solution;Sets up, installs, and tests hardware and peripherals at user sites;Installs network operating system and standard programs;Assists in the installation of more complex software and equipment;Provides basic one-on-one training to users;Maintains system records and documentation;Participates in managing network/telecommunication system upgrades, expansions, and equipment exchange;Reviews new technology and upgrades and makes recommendations on network/telecommunication system modifications;Maintains an inventory list of agency hardware and software;Provides assistance to other staff as needed. Required Knowledge Skills and Abilities(The knowledge, skills and abilities listed in this specification are representative of the class but are not an all-inclusive list.)Some knowledge of data and voice communications protocol and industry standards such as internet, intranet, internet security, frame relay, and data network;Some knowledge of communications network management and router configuration;Some knowledge of hardware and software, cabling, power requirements, ancillary equipment, and the like related to network operations and telecommunications systems;Understands the PC in a network environment;Understands the network environment and its operation;Ability to install system hardware and software;Ability to plan, schedule, coordinate, and manage studies, special projects and assignments;Ability to evaluate and make recommendations on different applications software packages;Ability to communicate effectively, both orally; and in writing;Ability to assist users in solving systems problems;Ability to translate technical terminology into terms understandable to management and employees;Ability to establish and maintain effective business relationships. Employment StandardsMINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:Any combination of education, experience, and training equivalent to the following:(Click on the aforementioned link to learn how Fairfax County interprets equivalencies for "Any combination, experience, and training equivalent to")Possession of an associate degree in computer science, electrical engineering, electronics, or a related field; plus, two years network and/or telecommunications experience; or a bachelor's degree in such fields.PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:Knowledge and experience in deploying and maintaining a body worn camera program within a law enforcement agency or demonstrated experience working in the public safety sector, including support of law enforcement, fire, EMS, or emergency communications operations. CompTIA Network+ or CompTIA A+ certification is strongly preferred.NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check, and credit check to the satisfaction of the employer.  PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Able to use hands, able to sit, able to lift computer parts and various types of hardware to include video cameras and storage devices. Incumbent may be required to lift up to 50 lbs.  All duties may be performed with or without reasonable accommodations.SELECTION PROCEDURE:Panel interview; may include exercise.  Fairfax County is home to a highly diverse population, with a significant number of residents speaking languages other than English at home (including Spanish, Asian/Pacific Islander, Indo-European, and many others.) We encourage candidates who are bilingual in English and another language to apply for this opportunity.  Fairfax County Government prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetics, political affiliation, or military status in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.  Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. TTY 703-222-7314. DHREmployment@fairfaxcounty.gov. EEO/AA/TTY.       

  • September 02, 2025

    We’re ready to build a more secure Air Force and Space ForceWhen it comes to mission success, readiness is everything. As an Air Force Civilian Service (AFCS) Security Specialist PALACE ACQUIRE (PAQ) Intern, you’ll be trained in the nuances of information protection and safeguarding vital assets from theft, loss, misuse, fraud, disclosure, espionage, and sabotage. You’ll work shoulder to shoulder with senior Security Specialists, both civilian and military, on challenging and rewarding real-world projects where you’ll make real contributions while gaining invaluable hands-on experience.This is a development program where promotions and yearly salary increases are granted based upon performance and supervisory approval. Upon successful completion of the formal training plan, the PALACE ACQUIRE Program offers a permanent position at AFCS, making it the perfect launching pad for an enduring career. Career PathsPersonnel Security   Information Security    Industrial Security   Operations Security   hysical Security    Anti-Terrorism   Security   Other security disciplines across the Department of the Air Force enterprise PAQ QualificationsU.S. citizenshipRecent graduate (within two years of completing degree or within six years if a Veteran)Bachelor's or master's degree in Security Administration, Law Enforcement, Management, Human Resources, and other career fieldsGPA 2.95 or aboveAbility to obtain Security Clearance funded by the Department of the Air Force (e.g., Background check)PAQ Program Details A formal two to three-year training and career development trackReal-world projects and missionsMentoring provided by Senior leadershipAnnual performance-based promotionsPlacement into a permanent Air Force Civilian Service position once PAQ Program is successfully completed PAQ BenefitsStudent Loan Repayment ProgramTuition Assistance toward a graduate degree while in the PAQ programRecruitment Bonus for selected positionsPaid move to employment location (if required upon conversion to PAQ program)

  • September 02, 2025

    Did you know the United States Capitol Police is immediately hiring for our many police officer vacancies? Today, the department is made up of more than 2,000 police officers providing armed security and protection for the Congress, the public, and the U.S. Capitol. We embrace and celebrate a diverse workforce, because inclusion makes us all stronger! SALARY - We have the highest starting salary in the DMV area for law enforcement at $83,362 a year, a lateral program that offers $10,000 retention bonus, student loan repayment program of $80,000 and much more. BENEFITS - We offer health insurance, dental insurance, vision care, life and long-term care insurance, Thrift Savings Plan, flexible spending accounts, transit subsidy benefits, fitness centers, personal trainers, nutritionists, an employee assistance program and much more! SPECIALTY UNITSDignitary Protection Division - Provide armed security and protection for Members of CongressContainment and Emergency Response Team (CERT/SWAT)K-9 UnitBomb TechnicianBicycle Response TeamSpecial OperationsCrime Scene SearchCriminal InvestigationsIntelligence and Interagency CoordinationThreat Assessment SectionCommand CenterCommunicationsMobile Patrol QUALIFICATIONS - Candidates must meet the following requirements to be minimally qualified for this position:Must be a United States citizen.Must be between 21-39 years of age.Must have a High School diploma or a GED certificate.Must possess and maintain a valid U.S. driver's license.Must show evidence of responsible driving in the past one (1) year.Male applicants must be registered for Selective Service.Must successfully complete a full field background investigation.Travel for hiring assessments and training is at applicant's expense.Polygraph, medical assessment, criminal, credit, and tax check required.Must successfully complete all required training. Come join our team and Be One Of Us!! To learn more, visit: www.uscp.gov/careers APPLY HERE! https://uscp.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/1/home/requisition/655?c=uscp&source=LINK 

  • August 29, 2025

    Serves as a training instructor in a vocational or occupational training program in the Education Department of a Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) correctional facility and may also serve as a program coordinator for other vocational/occupational training programs.Selects and/or develops curriculums which focus on the appropriate vocational training area.This position has direct responsibility for the delivery of classroom training for vocational and apprenticeship courses in the field/trade of Dog Trainer.Develops a curriculum design and record-keeping system to organize and track student progress through identified course work.Ensures the training program(s) are implemented and delivered in compliance with Bureau policies, Department of Labor, and Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training regulations, and the standards established by other certifying agencies and organizations.Serve as apprenticeship program coordinator with responsibility for coordinating the various occupational training programs and classes, as well as responsibilities which include development, review and evaluation of the vocational trades program.Along with all other correctional institution employees, incumbent is charged with responsibility for maintaining security of the institution. The staff's correctional responsibilities precede all others required by this position and are performed on a regular and recurring basis.

  • August 29, 2025

    Analyzes medical records for completeness, consistency and compliance with Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO), Bureau of Prisons (BOP) and medical staff requirements.Performs the monthly medical record audit in coordination with the medical staff.Processes requests for medical information from outside hospitals, clinics, and physicians.Responds to requests from outside sources requesting release of BOP medical information, including court orders, requests by U.S. Attorneys and other institutions.Codes, using ICD-9-CM, complicated diagnoses and procedures for discharged inmates, ensuring diagnoses and procedures are supported in the medical record and appropriately reported via Sentry.Establishes medical records for all new admissions to facility; acquires, monitors and accounts for the medical records which accompany those patients transferred in from other BOP institutions.Performs a full range of administrative duties, including preparing reports, purchase orders, receiving reports, pay vouchers, quarterly and annual reports, medical referrals for treatment to other BOP facilities and pre-certification requests.Along with all other correctional institution employees, incumbent is charged with responsibility for maintaining security of the institution. The staff's correctional responsibilities precede all others required by this position and are performed on a regular and recurring basis.

Please note: These job postings are pulled from our university-wide career site, . Job postings appear on this list based on the degrees and other options chosen by employers when listing their job opportunity. You may see some position listings that do not appear to be directly related to this degree. However, they are positions that an individual with this degree could also explore - either while still a student or after graduation. This also does not represent an exhaustive list of all opportunities to which a student with this degree may apply, but simply a sample of currently available positions. You can view all available jobs on Handshake by clicking the link above or by clicking the "More Jobs" link at the bottom of the listing section.

Robert Ituarte

The online MSDM gives me the opportunity to expand my specialized knowledge and offer applicable expertise in the field, volunteering with my city’s Emergency Operations Center in regional training activities.

ROBERT ITUARTE
BEM 2017, MSDM 2017