Public Service and Public Policy – Emergency Management and Homeland Security (BS)

Provides a broad introduction to the field of public service and leadership. Topics include an overview of management, policy, urban studies, and leadership in the public sector. Covers the history and development of the public sector, as well as how it serves contemporary society.

Introduces the terminology and methods of analysis in microeconomics. In particular, examines the behavior of individual consumers and firms, with a focus on market failures and the role of government policy in correcting those failures. Applies microeconomic principles to the distribution of income, policies for eliminating poverty and discrimination, the problems of environmental pollution and the impact of different market structures on economic activity.

Focuses on statistical techniques used in social science research. Applies concepts such as measures of central tendency and dispersion as well as statistical techniques, including the following: one-sample z and t tests, two-sample t tests, chi-square, and correlation. Goals include helping students understand the mathematical and statistical concepts presented and assisting them in using these concepts in everyday life and in the study of social sciences.

The leader's role in bringing about significant organizational and societal change with special attention to group and organizational behavior dynamics, establishing a vision, mobilizing and empowering individuals and groups, and assessing outcomes of the change process in a variety of settings.

Develops conceptual, critical, and practical understanding of public policy, the policy process, and policy analysis.

Teaches students to solve problems related to the public sector by applying theory, knowledge, and methods from previous courses to a hands-on project in the community. Seminars include guest speakers and discussions on professional development. Students work as individuals and as a team to prepare research papers and a professional report that is presented to the community.

Role, values, and issues of public management in democratic governance, citizen participation, power structures, and professional codes of conduct.

The philosophy, scope, and methods of public sector research. Examines quantitative and qualitative research methods and research design.

Overview of natural and technological hazards and disasters, including core concepts and evidence in the field. Introduces concepts of risk and risk management and how they are used in emergency and disaster preparedness, response and mitigation operations.

Emergency management, including basic issues of all-hazards management, phases of emergency management and basic operational systems of incident command and the broader incident management system in the United States.

Explores latest apps, software and social media used in planning (e.g., GIS for hazard mitigation), public crisis communications (via apps or social media platforms) and incident response platforms (for resource and operations coordination). Emphasizes hands-on experience with such tools.

In-depth analysis of policies, procedures, and organizational structure for effective homeland security program. Covers all hazard/all risk philosophy.