Disaster Management Program

Program Objectives

The strategic objectives of the program are designed to acheive the following:

- Bolster the environmental public health science, policy and practice of disaster preparedness and management
- Strengthen the disaster management workforce locally, the Gulf States regoin, nationally and globally
- Minimize the impace of natural and intentional disasters by promoting the integration of public health and disaster management systems.

Competencies to Acheive the MPH and MSPH in Environmental Public Health Disaster Management

Two master's degrees, the MPH and MSPH are offered. The competencies are outlines below in two categories: the general competencies required to be attained by any MPH. The competenices are outlined below in two categories: the general competencies required to be attained by any MPH in EHS regardless area of specialization; and those that represent the area of specialty. Students enrolled in the MSPH track fulfill these competencies by completing a curriculum that is more basic science-oriented. Specifically, that includes targeted basic science elective coursework, practicum, and culminating experience as outlined below.

Competencies to be attained in the environmental public health disaster management "Area of Specialization"

- Apply public health science, policy, and practice principles to address the health threats resulting from natural and intentional disasters
- Integrate environmental public health strategies in the development execution, and evaluation of each core competent of disaster management: preparedness, detection, response, containment, and recovery.
 - Implement population based interventions to protect communities, particularly those at special risk from natural and intentional disasters
- Examine the public health implications resulting from gaps in science using disaster management theories methodologies and research techniques.

Competencies to acheive the DrPH in Environmental Public Health Disaster Management

The DrPH degree will be offered in accordance with the school wide doctoral degree policies as a 60 credit hour degree. The DrPH degree in environmental Public Health Disaster Management prepares students for advanced science based practice and applied, practice based research. The program prepares graduates to assume leadership positions in designing, 
implementing, and evaluting disaster management programs, and in managing complex multi-disciplinary response efforts and teams locally, nationally, and globally. The degree follows the MPH curricular path and requires a prospectus and dissertation. The 18 additional credit hours beyod the Masters give the student the opportunity to take additional sub-specialty electives and up to 12 hours in directed research studies.

DrPH Competencies

- Examine gaps in science hampering the design, implementation, and evaluation of disaster management programs
- Conduct applied research in environmental public health disaster management using evidence-based theories, methodologies and practices
- Synthesize new knowledge from the field of disaster management to stregthen current practice
- Emply applied reseach

DrPH Model Curriculum

In addition to the MPH coursework, the DrPH curriculum includes required advanced coursework in Public Health Disaster Management and advanced level courses in relevant environmental health specialty tracks. A sample listing of advanced courses is outlined below.

- Disaster Management for Special Populations
- Applications in Crisis Intervention
- Environmental Aspects of Disaster Recovery
- Health Rish Assessment Dara Analysis
- Air Sampling and Analysis
- Research Methods in Toxicology
- Advanced Statistics
- Research Methods

Diaster Management Program Offerings

Distance Learning Certificate Program
The certificate program is designed to provide online cutting edge continuing education opportunities for mid-career professionals. All courses are awarded academic credit. Graduates of the program can apply for the MPH.

Requirements
- 21 credit hours
- School wide core course: 3 credits: SPHL 601
- Specialty course work

Master of Public Health (MPH) - On-site or Online
The MPH program provides a rigorous academic preparation in disaster preparedness and management, integrating face to face learning with hands-on frontline expertise.

Requirements
- 42 credit hours
- School wide core course work (18  credits)
- Specialty course work (18 credits)
- Electives (6 credits)
- Practicum (200 contact hours)
- Culminating Experience: thesis or public health analysis report