Studies in emergency management involve gaining knowledge and skills necessary to protect communities from the fallout of natural or man-made disasters. These studies may include techniques in the planning, directing and organizing of teams to intervene and ensure public safety in crisis situations.

Requirements for the PhD program often involve the student having already obtained a Master’s degree. Additionally, a thesis or dissertation primarily consisting of original academic research must be submitted. In some countries, this work may even need to be defended in front of a panel.