As a student in our program, you will gain the conceptual and analytical tools necessary to critically assess the principles and practices underpinning emergency management and prepare for a rewarding career in this rapidly growing field. Exploring topics such as business continuity planning and disaster risk management, you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of how to apply key concepts, methodologies and technologies used by emergency management professionals to complex real-life challenges.
Take advantage of experiential learning opportunities and interact with leading professionals who will provide you with a deeper insight into the field. You'll have the option to complete a field experience that will help to foster a greater understanding of the complexities and realities emergency management professionals face. You'll also learn from experienced professors, many of whom have been active in the field.
This semester-long field placement course enables students to gain practical DEM experience. While completing their 135 hours in a relevant organization, agency or company, students will be able to:
- Apply what they are learning in the program to real world situations
- Experience emergency management in practice and gain important practical experience
- Broaden their DEM network and shape their future career.
You could work here!
FAQ
What is a placement?
You will apply for a position within an organization, where you’ll practise and develop the skills learned in your course.
Will I be paid?
No. You’ll receive course credit because each placement experience is tied to a particular course.
Will I be graded?
Yes. You’ll be assigned a supervisor who will guide you through the experience and evaluate your performance.
How do I apply?
You’ll get a job description that outlines the application process, which usually involves a resumé and cover letter, interview and references.
Will I be insured while on placement?
Students who are on an unpaid placement are fully insured by York University.
The field placement course provided me with the practical knowledge and skills that I needed to both find employment in the emergency management field, but more importantly be successful within this field. Learning and understanding how an emergency management program operates first-hand is essential to making the transition from university into the workforce. Shortly after completing the field placement course, I was hired full-time by the organization I had completed my placement with. Now, two years later, I am responsible for coordinating and supervising the students that do their placements with our emergency management program. My experience has come full-circle.
— Ben Gallagher
Alumnus, Disaster & Emergency Management '19
