The debates rage on social media. Do emergency managers need a college degree? Now for full disclosure, I am an academic. I write papers and explore the problems we face as emergency and crisis managers. Do I bring a bias to this debate? Yes, I do. However, I would argue that I bring years of experience and education to the conversation. Before you judge on the topic, here me out, and I would like to hear your opinions in the comment section.
Do they "need" a degree? No. Should they "have" a degree? Maybe. Would it help? Yes. With the continued growth of the Emergency Management Profession and the scope of knowledge and work required of those who take on the task, having a degree in Emergency Management can only help. Just as with anything else, the real learning comes on the job, with or without a degree, can they cut it when it counts will be found in the moment.
Do they "need" a degree? No. Should they "have" a degree? Maybe. Would it help? Yes. With the continued growth of the Emergency Management Profession and the scope of knowledge and work required of those who take on the task, having a degree in Emergency Management can only help. Just as with anything else, the real learning comes on the job, with or without a degree, can they cut it when it counts will be found in the moment.