CIP: 43.0302
Degree: Career Studies Certificate
Program Code: 221-413-01
Program Length: 3 Semesters
Minimum Credits: 28

Program Advisor
Jerry Stinson
276.964.7203
Tazewell Hall Room 215

Purpose: The Career Studies Certificate in Crisis, Emergency, Disaster Management is designed to prepare students for entry-level roles in emergency services, public safety, and disaster response. The focus of the program will include courses in emergency medical care, fire services, and emergency management operations. This curriculum also offers a pathway to further study in fields such as Emergency Medical Services, Fire Science, as well as state or federal emergency management (VDEM or FEMA).

Occupational Objectives:

• Emergency Management Assistant or Technician
• Disaster Preparedness Specialist (entry-level)
• Public Safety Dispatcher or Communications Officer
• Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Support Staff
• Safety and Security Coordinator (public or private sector)
• Community Outreach or Preparedness Coordinator

Admission Requirements:

Special Note to prospective Students: The prospective employing agency and/or state and federal certifying agencies have the authority to deny employment based on adverse findings in a criminal history to include barrier crimes such as felonies, domestic violence, and crimes involving honesty (this is not an exhaustive list).  Organizations to include first response and public safety, as well as state and federal emergency management, are prohibited from hiring persons who have been convicted of the fore mentioned criminal acts. Any person wishing to enter the Crisis, Emergency, Disaster Management program who has committed any legal offenses including minor traffic violations should discuss these matters with the Criminal Justice Program Director prior to application. This is especially pertinent for anyone with a history of drug use.

Criminal Background Check/Drug Screening: Background checks for criminal history of barrier crimes (i.e. any felony, misdemeanors which restrict the ability to carry a firearm, multiple misdemeanors, drug convictions), driving history for excessive moving violations (i.e. reckless driving and DUI/DWI could be immediate disqualifiers for employment), and drug testing are required for employment with first response agencies, public safety, and emergency management agencies.  The cost of criminal background check, driving history, and drug testing will be the responsibility of the student.

Physical Demands: Students interested in this program should prepare themselves for duties that may require squatting, bending, kneeling, reaching, lifting, carrying, and stair climbing. Duties also require constant use of acute sight, hearing, touch, and speech. The nature of working in the Emergency Preparedness field could involve exposure to both natural and man-made hazards using universal precautions.

Selection Process: To be eligible for selection to the program, interested persons should complete the following process by at least 2 weeks prior to the first day of classes:

1. Submit a college admission application
2. Submit a required form from Certified Background Incorporated which includes permission and fee for the following:
   1. Criminal History
   2. Urine Drug Screen
3. Driving History may be obtained from the Dearment of Motor Vehicle from the student’s licensing state or the state police of said state.
4. Have transcripts of previous college courses or diplomas from high school criminal justice programs sent to the Southwest Virginia Community College Admissions department.
5. Schedule an interview with the Criminal Justice Program Director.
   
   At this time the students for the ensuing academic year will be selected. Selection will be based on the college application, and interview.
6. Academic Requirements: Students must make a “C” or better in all program core courses. Any student receiving a grade less than a “C” will be placed on programmatic academic probation. That course shall be remediated once. Remediated courses must be completed with a final grade of “C” or better. Dismissal from the program may result if the student does not meet the academic threshold of a grade of “C” in the course.