Emergency Management
Serve and respond with a career in the increasingly complex field of emergency management.
- Use exercises and case studies to analyze real events to improve your capacity to respond to emergencies in a wide range of settings and industries
- Benefit from supportive and experienced facilitators who are active in their industry
- Courses are built with flexibility in mind and can be accessed anytime and from anywhere
Program Availability and Schedule
Availability
Open
Closed
Waitlisted
Start Term
Availability
Competitive?
Fall 2026
No
Winter 2027
No
Spring 2027
No
Schedule
Program Summary
Credential
Program Code
Area of Interest
Other Delivery Options
Work Integrated Learning
Eligible for Post-Graduation
Work Permit?
The one-year Emergency Management Ontario College Graduate Certificate program prepares you, both operationally and strategically, to understand and respond to the five pillars of emergency management:...(read more)
Overview
Serve and respond with a career in the increasingly complex field of emergency management.
The one-year Emergency Management Ontario College Graduate Certificate program prepares you, both operationally and strategically, to understand and respond to the five pillars of emergency management:
- mitigation
- prevention
- preparedness
- response
- recovery
In today's world, threats and risks are increasingly complex due to the diversity of natural and human caused hazards. In this program, you learn to manage these threats and risks by exploring key topics:
- legislative and policy framework
- incident management systems
- hazard identification and risk management
- critical infrastructure protection
- business continuity planning
- Use assignments, scenario based discussions, and case studies, culminating to a capstone project, to analyze real events to improve your capacity to support the response to emergencies.
Graduates may find employment in all levels of government and the private sector in:
- business continuity planning
- emergency management program development and coordination
- emergency management planning
- emergency response planning/coordination
- risk management
Courses
Registration Note:
Applications for this full-time program must be submitted on Ontario Colleges. If you are interested in the part-time delivery of the program, please refer to the part-time program page for course by course registration. The courses take place entirely online and do not require you to come to campus. Without a set class time you can complete your assignments when it’s most convenient for you while following the course deadlines.
Online  |
| Course Number |
Hours | Course Name | Fall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level: 01 | |||
| ERC5180 | 56.0 | Foundations of Emergency ManagementFoundations of Emergency ManagementLegislation is an important aspect of emergency prevention, mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery. Students study the various legislations, regulations and frameworks informing municipal, provincial and federal agencies. Concepts of emergency management and the models, systems and processes required to effectively plan, mitigate, respond and recover from various disasters are explored. In addition, students develop a nuanced perspective on how to manage disasters involving multiple jurisdictions at national and international levels. Students gain a fundamental understanding of the roles and responsibilities of the emergency manager in understanding natural, man-made and technological hazards and incidents. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| ERC5186 | 56.0 | Hazard Identification Risk AssessmentHazard Identification Risk AssessmentThe impact of hazards on communities will vary based on their probability and severity. Students develop effective approaches to managing these incidents, identifying, assessing and ranking hazards using best practice methodologies to produce a risk matrix which is an effective tool that allows organizations to identify those hazards that are the greatest threat. Through case studies, historical research, critical analysis and prediction, students explore the methods, tools and approaches to identify and respond effectively and strategically to the multitude of risk within the emergency management context. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| ERC5187 | 42.0 | Crisis Communication and Public Information ManagementCrisis Communication and Public Information ManagementAdopting a strategic approach to media engagement can be pivotal in effectively managing an incident and improving chances of successful recovery. Students discuss how traditional and social media can be leveraged in a crisis and how to proactively work with and communicate through the media to reach all key audiences and stakeholders. Through the examination of case studies and established communication best practices, students develop a strong foundation in the role of public information within emergency management. Emphasis is placed on the importance of transparency and narrative control in achieving effective and successful outcomes. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| ERC5194 | 42.0 | Wellbeing and Critical Incident StressWellbeing and Critical Incident StressSupporting people and communities is one of the primary roles of an emergency manager. Recognizing the emotional impact of crises on affected populations, responders and support personnel is important to their emotional wellness and overall recovery from an incident. Students examine group behaviour, psychological response to trauma and crisis communication, as well as gain a solid grounding in understanding and managing critical incident stress reactions in people exposed to traumatic events, with emphasis given to the nature of trauma and the mitigation of its impacts. Students explore different types of critical incidents and the associated features of acute, delayed, empathetic and cumulative stress reactions of normal persons exposed to abnormal events, the rescue personality and basic debriefing methodology. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| ERC5195 | 56.0 | Program Management for Emergency ManagersProgram Management for Emergency ManagersIf the core of emergency management is people, whether they be impacted by the incident, are stakeholders or emergency managers themselves, understanding how to work with and manage these diverse groups is an incredibly important skill set. This course prepares students to navigate the business, administrative, and leadership responsibilities of an emergency manager by exploring key topics such as financial management and budget creation, project management, human resources, stakeholder engagement, organizational leadership, business writing and self-marketing skills. Emphasis is placed on effective communication, team coordination, conflict resolution, and ethical decision-making in high-stakes environments. Through case studies, simulations, and practical exercises, students develop the skills needed to manage operations, lead teams, and foster resilience in emergency management organizations. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| ERC5196 | 28.0 | Capstone Preparation: Research and Project Development in Emergency MgmtCapstone Preparation: Research and Project Development in Emergency MgmtRecognizing that the capstone project is the culminating experience of the emergency management program, students develop research, problem solving and time management skills. Students prepare for the successful completion of their capstone project by starting to plan their project and create research and analysis tools. Students focus on identifying and selecting an emergency management challenge, apply research techniques and design a professional project proposal. Through guided exercises, peer discussions, and instructor feedback, students set themselves up for success in executing their capstone project with confidence and professionalism. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| Level: 02 | |||
| ERC5182 | 56.0 | Emergency Coordination Centres: Design, Activation and OperationsEmergency Coordination Centres: Design, Activation and OperationsEmergency Coordination Centres (ECCs) play a vital role in supporting larger or more complex emergency incidents by facilitating coordination, communication, and decision-making. Students build a foundational knowledge on how ECCs can be used to support the five pillars of emergency management. Key physical and technological requirements are explored and staffing structures, roles, and responsibilities are examined. Additionally, students develop skills in ECC activation, information management, and operational planning while applying best practices for leadership and coordination. Through case studies and assignments, students create an ECC program plan, enhancing their ability to establish and manage an effective coordination centre in various emergency scenarios. Pre-requisites: ERC5180 and ERC5186 This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| ERC5184 | 42.0 | Business Continuity PlanningBusiness Continuity PlanningBusiness continuity planning is the process of ensuring organizations can remain operational during and after disasters, which is essential for maintaining the delivery of critical services. Students explore the concepts, principles, terminologies and available solutions to potential service interruptions within the continuity sphere . This includes the development of business continuity plans, disaster recovery plans and incident action plans. Students engage in discussions and assignments that lead to the development of a completed business continuity plan. Upon completion of this course, students are in a position to challenge the Disaster Recovery Institutes International Associates Business Continuity Planner Certification. Pre-requisites: ERC5180 and ERC5186 This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| ERC5185 | 42.0 | Emergency Exercise DesignEmergency Exercise DesignUnderstanding emergency exercise design is fundamental to effectively testing and evaluating emergency plans. Exercises are used to discover weaknesses, omissions and highlight corrective measures before there is a threat and can sometimes be a legislative requirement. Students explore the difference between tabletop and full-scale exercises and how each has its place in emergency management. Students engage in discussions and assignments that lead to the development of a small functional exercise based on real life emergency plans. Pre-requisites: ERC5180 and ERC5186 This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| ERC5191 | 42.0 | Critical Infrastructure ProtectionCritical Infrastructure ProtectionAn understanding of critical infrastructure is essential for conducting risk analysis and assessing the regional impact from incidents. This is further amplified by the increasing complexity of regional and global infrastructure. Students gain a historical perspective of how various critical infrastructures have evolved and are categorized, learning quantitative research approaches that are commonly used to evaluate critical infrastructure and develop an understanding of how to protect these vital systems. Through discussions and assignments, students understand allocation of limited funding and explore the question "what should be protected and how?" Pre-requisites: ERC5180 and ERC5186 This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| ERC5197 | 56.0 | Emergency Social Services and Ethics in Emergency ManagementEmergency Social Services and Ethics in Emergency ManagementIn a world of changing geopolitical environments and financial pressures, understanding how individual communities and populations need to be supported differently is important in developing successful emergency management plans. Students explore the ethical principles and social considerations that guide emergency management practices in Canada. The role of emergency social services in supporting individuals and communities during incidents, including sheltering, food security, psychosocial support, and case management is examined. In addition, students discuss the special needs and difficulties in supporting underserved and vulnerable populations. Ethical frameworks, cultural competency, equity-based and trauma informed decision-making are emphasized in disaster preparedness, response and recovery. Through case studies, scenario-based learning, and reflective exercises, students analyze real-world challenges and develop strategies for ethical decision-making in emergency management contexts. Pre-requisites: ERC5180 and ERC5186 This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| ERC5198 | 56.0 | Emergency Management Capstone ProjectEmergency Management Capstone ProjectThe capstone project is the culminating experience of the emergency management program, where students demonstrate and apply their acquired emergency management knowledge and skills to a real-world challenge. Students engage in problem identification, risk analysis and practical implementation strategies while demonstrating critical thinking, and ethical decision-making. Through guided exercises, research, case studies, peer collaboration, and instructor feedback, students refine their project into a final report, preparing them for professional roles in the field. Pre-requisites: ERC5180 and ERC5186 and ERC5187 and ERC5194 and ERC5195 and ERC5196 This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
Careers & Pathways
Careers
Graduates may find employment in government (all levels) and the private sector in such roles as business continuity planners, emergency management program coordinators, emergency management planners and as emergency response officers.Pathways
Please use our Pathways tool to search for pathway options.
Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Develop, review and update emergency policies and programs based upon relevant legislation, standards, and procedures.
- Conduct hazards identification and risk assessments, based on probability and consequence including the formulation of a risk profile addressing public and private sector issues and concerns.
- Develop, implement, and maintain a business continuity plan that will ensure the continuation and recovery of normal operations of affected business and industry.
- Develop, evaluate, and conduct training programs and exercises to test current emergency management programs.
- Assess the integration and compatibility of various emergency policies, plans and procedures of area/regional private and public sectors.
- Formulate, implement, and coordinate assigned projects within the community emergency management program within an allocated budget which meet or exceed legislative requirements incorporating a proactive risk management process and global best practices.
- Perform operational functions in emergency situations.
- Coordinate the development of, and administer public awareness and education programs, emergency information and media relations programs.
- Liaise/coordinate with provincial ministries, federal departments, private and public sector enterprises to develop and sustain partnerships to assist with all phases of emergency management strategies while ensuring up-to-date data and research.
- Lead teams in understanding various concepts of emergency management, using knowledge about the different styles of leadership and influence and their impact on behavior in an emergency management context.
- Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.
Tuition & Fees
2026/2027 Academic Year
Tuition and related ancillary fees for this program can be viewed by using the Tuition and Fees Estimator tool at algonquincollege.com/fee-estimator
Further information on fees can be found by visiting the Registrar's Office website at algonquincollege.com/ro
Fees are subject to change.
Additional program related expenses include:
The approximate cost of books and supplies is $650 over the program duration. For more information visit bookstore.algonquincollege.com
Admissions Requirements
Program Eligibility
- Ontario College Diploma, Ontario College Advanced Diploma or Degree or equivalent.
- Applicants with partial post-secondary education (minimum two years full-time, in good academic standing) and relevant work experience may be considered for admission. These applicants will be assessed individually and will be required to complete an Eligibility Package
Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).
IELTS-International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each band;OR TOEFL Internet-based (iBT) tests taken prior to January 21, 2026 overall 88, with a minimum in each component: Reading 22; Listening 22; Speaking 22; Writing 22.OR TOEFL Internet-based (iBT) tests taken after January 21, 2026 overall 4.5, with a minimum in each component: Reading 4.5; Listening 4.5; Speaking 4.5; Writing 4.5. OR Duolingo English Test (DET) Overall 120, minimum of 120 in Literacy and no score below 105.
Application Information
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
Program Code 1809X09FAO
Applications to full-time programs must be submitted with official transcripts showing completion of the academic admission requirements through:
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario
N1G 5J3
1-888-892-2228
Applications are available online at OntarioColleges.ca.
Applications received by February 1 will be given equal consideration. Applications received after February 1 will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as places are available.
International applicants applying from out-of-country can obtain the International Student Application Form at algonquincollege.my.site.com/myac360/s/ or by contacting the Registrar's Office.
For further information on the admissions process, please visit: Admissions - Registrar's Office: algonquincollege.com/ro/admissions/
Additional Information
Program Resources
Prior Learning and Recognition (PLAR):
Students who wish to apply for PLAR need to demonstrate competency at a post-secondary level in all of the course learning requirements. Evidence of learning achievements for PLAR candidates may include a comprehensive challenge examination and/or completion of a portfolio.
Program Progression:
As per policy AA39: Program Progression and Graduation Requirements when students are admitted to a program, they are assigned to the Program of Study that aligns with their start date. If a student takes a break for two or more consecutive terms the Program of Study is reset to align with the current version (when studies are resumed).
Contact
Future Students
For additional information, please contact our Customer Service Representative team at online@algonquincollege.com and they will direct you to the best person to answer your specific questions.
Current Students
For additional information, please reference the AC Online Circle of Care.