Top 11 Emergency Management Specialist Certifications

Certifications are important for an emergency management specialist in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and expertise in the field. Employers want to hire someone who can be trusted to handle difficult situations, and certifications provide evidence that the individual has been trained to do just that. Additionally, certifications show that the individual has taken the time to gain additional knowledge and skills specific to emergency management. This is especially valuable in a competitive job market where employers are looking for individuals who are well-prepared and knowledgeable about the industry they are entering. Finally, certifications often come with continuing education requirements which ensures that specialists stay up-to-date on best practices and emerging trends in emergency management.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Emergency Management Specialists and explains how they can contribute to an emergency management specialist's career.

What are Emergency Management Specialist Certifications?

Emergency management specialist certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual’s commitment to the field of emergency management and their specialized knowledge in the area. It helps to validate an individual’s expertise and experience in emergency management, as well as providing them with recognition for their achievements.

The certification involves completing a rigorous assessment process that tests an individual’s knowledge of key areas such as risk assessment, hazard mitigation, response planning, recovery operations and other important topics related to emergency management. Those who successfully complete the certification will have demonstrated a high level of competence in the field, which can help them further their career or gain access to better job opportunities.

The certification also provides employers with assurance that those they hire are knowledgeable and experienced in the essential skills needed for emergency management. This can help ensure that organizations have qualified personnel in place when disasters occur, making it easier for them to respond effectively and efficiently. Additionally, having certified personnel on staff can provide organizations with peace of mind knowing they have someone who is prepared to handle any crisis situation that may arise.

Pro Tip: To maximize the value of an emergency management specialist certification, look for programs that include hands-on training and practice in emergency response scenarios. This will help ensure you have the skills necessary to effectively respond to any situation.

Related: What does an Emergency Management Specialist do?

Top 11 Emergency Management Specialist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Emergency Management Specialists today.

1. Certified Emergency Manager (CEM)

Certified Emergency Manager (CEM) is a professional certification program offered by the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM). The CEM designation is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge, skills, and abilities in comprehensive emergency management. It is intended to provide assurance that an individual has achieved a level of competency in emergency management and has the ability to perform at a high level of proficiency.

The CEM program requires applicants to complete a rigorous application process that includes submitting an application form, providing proof of education and experience, and passing a written exam. The application process typically takes 4-6 weeks for completion.

To become certified as a CEM, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements which include:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university;
• At least four years of full-time professional experience in emergency management or related field;
• Current membership in IAEM;
• Successful completion of the CEM application process.

The cost to apply for the CEM designation varies depending on whether you are an IAEM member or non-member. For IAEM members, the cost is $400 USD and for non-members it is $500 USD. This fee covers the cost of processing your application as well as taking the written exam.

2. Certified Business Continuity Professional (CBCP)

Certified Business Continuity Professional (CBCP) is a certification program offered by the Disaster Recovery Institute International (DRII). The CBCP certification is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of business continuity planning.

The CBCP certification requires applicants to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of business continuity principles, processes, and best practices. This includes topics such as risk assessment and management, crisis management, incident response, business impact analysis, disaster recovery strategies, and organizational resilience.

It typically takes about 6 months for an individual to complete the requirements for the CBCP certification. To earn the CBCP credential, applicants must pass a written exam that covers all aspects of business continuity planning. They must also demonstrate at least two years of professional experience in the field and submit three references from industry professionals who can attest to their knowledge and skills.

The cost for obtaining the CBCP credential varies depending on whether you are already a member of DRII or not. For non-members, it costs $695 USD to apply for the exam plus an additional $395 USD fee for taking it. For DRII members, it costs $495 USD to apply plus an additional $295 USD fee for taking it.

3. Certified Emergency Planning Specialist (CEPS)

A Certified Emergency Planning Specialist (CEPS) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have met the standards of expertise in emergency planning and management. This certification is offered by the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM).

The CEPS certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in emergency planning, management, and response through a combination of education, training, and experience. To become certified, applicants must:

1. Complete an IAEM-approved educational program or coursework related to emergency management;

2. Pass the IAEM Certified Emergency Planning Specialist (CEPS) exam;

3. Have at least three years of documented experience in emergency planning and management; and

4. Submit a completed application to the IAEM Certification Board for review.

The CEPS exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as hazard identification and assessment, risk analysis, continuity planning, crisis communication, public health preparedness, disaster response operations, recovery operations, community resilience building strategies, legal considerations in emergency management, and more. The exam can be taken online or at an approved testing center. It typically takes about two hours to complete the exam.

The cost to take the CEPS exam is $395 for IAEM members and $495 for non-members. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam at an approved testing center or retaking the exam if needed. Once certified as a CEPS, recertification is required every five years by completing continuing education credits or retaking the CEPS exam.

4. Certified Public Safety Executive (CPE)

Certified Public Safety Executive (CPE) is a professional credential offered by the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training (IADLEST). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge, experience, and competency in the field of public safety administration.

The CPE program consists of three components: an online course, a comprehensive examination, and a portfolio review. The online course provides an overview of public safety administration, including topics such as organizational leadership, budgeting and finance, human resources management, policy development and implementation, and legal issues. The comprehensive examination tests the applicant’s knowledge of the topics covered in the course. Finally, the portfolio review assesses the applicant’s experience in public safety administration.

It typically takes about six months to complete all three components of the CPE program. To get started on the path to earning your CPE credential, you must first submit an application to IADLEST. Once your application is accepted, you will be provided with access to the online course materials and instructions for completing each component of the program.

The cost for earning your CPE credential varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of IADLEST. For non-members, there is an initial registration fee plus additional fees for each component of the program (online course material fee plus exam fee). For members, there is only an exam fee since they already have access to online course materials through their membership.

5. Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM)

A Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM) is a professional certification program offered by the Institute of Hazardous Materials Management (IHMM). The CHMM program is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the management of hazardous materials. It is the only nationally recognized certification program for hazardous materials managers.

The CHMM program requires applicants to demonstrate knowledge and experience in areas such as hazardous material regulations, safety, environmental compliance, and risk management. Applicants must also pass an exam administered by IHMM. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as hazardous materials regulations, safety, environmental compliance, and risk management.

The CHMM program typically takes between six months and one year to complete. In order to become certified, applicants must first complete an application form and submit it to IHMM for review. After submitting the application form, applicants will be required to take an online pre-exam assessment that covers topics related to hazardous materials management. Once the pre-exam assessment has been completed successfully, applicants will be eligible to take the actual CHMM exam.

The cost of becoming a CHMM varies depending on how much study material you purchase from IHMM or other sources. Generally speaking, the cost can range from $500-$1,000 USD depending on what materials you choose to purchase.

6. Certified Disaster Recovery Engineer (CDRE)

A Certified Disaster Recovery Engineer (CDRE) is a professional certification that verifies an individual's knowledge and skills in disaster recovery planning, implementation, testing, and maintenance. This certification is offered by the Disaster Recovery Institute International (DRII).

The CDRE certification program requires applicants to have at least two years of experience in disaster recovery planning, implementation, testing and maintenance. Applicants must also pass a written exam consisting of 100 multiple-choice questions. The exam covers topics such as risk management, business continuity planning, disaster recovery strategies, incident response and recovery processes.

To get the CDRE certification, applicants must first register for the exam through DRII's website. Once registered, applicants can take the exam at any approved testing center or online with ProctorU. The cost of the exam is $495 USD for members of DRII and $595 USD for non-members.

The exam takes approximately three hours to complete and results are available immediately after completion. Those who pass the exam will receive their official CDRE certificate within four weeks of passing the test.

7. Certified Homeland Security Professional (CHSP)

Certified Homeland Security Professional (CHSP) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of homeland security. The CHSP certification is awarded by the International Association for Counterterrorism and Security Professionals (IACSP), an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the knowledge and practice of counterterrorism and security professionals.

The CHSP certification requires applicants to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of homeland security principles and practices through a combination of coursework, experience, and testing. The program consists of three levels: Certified Associate (CAHSP), Certified Professional (CPHSP), and Certified Master (CMHSP). To become certified at any level, applicants must complete a series of courses offered by IACSP or approved providers, pass an examination, and meet additional requirements as outlined by IACSP.

The time required for completion depends on the individual’s background knowledge and experience in the field. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years to complete all requirements for CHSP certification.

In order to get certified as a CHSP, applicants must first register with IACSP online or by mail. Once registered, they will be provided with access to course materials as well as information about upcoming examinations. After completing coursework and passing the exam, applicants must submit documentation verifying their experience in the field to IACSP for review before being certified.

The cost of obtaining CHSP certification varies depending on which level you are pursuing. The cost for each level includes registration fees, course materials fees, examination fees, and other administrative costs associated with obtaining certification. Generally speaking, the total cost ranges from $500-$2,000 USD depending on the level you are seeking certification at.

8. Certified Infrastructure Security Professional (CISP)

Certified Infrastructure Security Professional (CISP) is a certification program designed to help IT professionals demonstrate their expertise in the areas of infrastructure security and risk management. The CISP certification is administered by ISACA, an international professional association dedicated to advancing the knowledge and understanding of information systems audit, control, and security.

The CISP certification requires a minimum of five years of experience in the field of information security and risk management. Candidates must also pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as network security, cryptography, authentication systems, system hardening techniques, and incident response.

The CISP exam is offered twice a year at various locations around the world. The exam fee is $595 for members of ISACA or $795 for non-members. The exam takes about two hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions.

To prepare for the CISP exam, candidates can take advantage of ISACA's online study materials or attend one of its review courses. Additionally, many universities offer courses that cover topics related to the CISP certification.

9. National Incident Management System Certification (NIMS-CERT)

National Incident Management System Certification (NIMS-CERT) is a certification program that provides personnel with the knowledge and skills to effectively manage an incident. This certification is required by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for all personnel involved in emergency management activities, including those working at the state, local, tribal, and territorial levels.

The NIMS-CERT program consists of two courses: Introduction to NIMS and ICS 100. The Introduction to NIMS course provides an overview of the National Incident Management System (NIMS), its components, and how it is used to manage incidents. The ICS 100 course introduces students to the Incident Command System (ICS), which is used for managing emergency operations. Both courses are available online or in a classroom setting.

It typically takes about 8 hours to complete both courses and receive your NIMS-CERT certification. To get certified, you must first register for the courses on FEMA’s website, then complete both courses within one year of registering. Once you have completed both courses, you will be issued a certificate of completion from FEMA that verifies your NIMS-CERT status.

The cost of getting certified depends on whether you take the courses online or in a classroom setting. The online version typically costs around $50 while the classroom version can range from $100-$200 depending on location and instructor fees.

10. Federal Emergency Management Agency Certifications

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offers certifications for individuals who are interested in working in emergency management. These certifications provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively respond to disasters and emergencies.

FEMA certifications can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to complete, depending on the level of certification desired. To obtain a FEMA certification, individuals must complete an application process that includes passing an exam and completing required courses.

The cost of obtaining a FEMA certification varies depending on the type of certification sought. Generally, the cost ranges from $50-$400 for each course or exam. Additionally, some certifications require additional fees for background checks or other administrative costs.

Overall, obtaining a FEMA certification is an important step towards becoming qualified in emergency management and disaster response. It is important to research the specific requirements for each certification before beginning the application process.

11. International Association of Emergency Managers Certification Program

The International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM) Certification Program is a professional certification program for emergency management professionals. The program recognizes the achievement of individuals who have demonstrated knowledge, experience and competency in the field of emergency management. It is designed to provide a level of assurance to employers, government agencies and other organizations that certified individuals are knowledgeable in the field and have achieved a certain level of proficiency.

The IAEM Certification Program consists of three levels: Certified Emergency Manager (CEM), Associate Emergency Manager (AEM) and Certified Business Continuity Professional (CBCP). Each certification requires successful completion of an application process, passing an exam and meeting specific criteria related to education, training and experience.

The CEM certification is the highest level offered by the IAEM Certification Program. To become certified at this level, applicants must have at least five years of full-time emergency management experience or its equivalent within the past 10 years. They must also possess a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university or have completed at least four years of full-time service in the military with honorable discharge. In addition, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as incident command systems, hazard identification and risk assessment, continuity planning and disaster recovery.

The AEM certification is geared toward those who are new to emergency management or who do not meet all of the requirements for CEM certification. To become certified at this level, applicants must possess either a high school diploma or equivalent or two years of full-time emergency management experience within the past five years. They must also pass an exam that covers topics such as basic principles of emergency management, hazard identification and risk assessment, continuity planning and disaster recovery.

The CBCP certification is designed for business continuity professionals who wish to demonstrate their expertise in this area. To become certified at this level, applicants must possess either a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university or three years of full-time business continuity experience within the past five years. They must also pass an exam that covers topics such as risk analysis, business impact analysis and crisis communication plans.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete all requirements for any one of these certifications depending on individual circumstances such as work schedule and availability for study time. The cost for each certification varies depending on whether you are already an IAEM member; however it generally ranges from $350-$500 USD per certification application fee plus any applicable exam fees which range from $100-$200 USD per exam taken.

Do You Really Need a Emergency Management Specialist Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on a variety of factors. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to pursue an Emergency Management Specialist Certificate is up to the individual. There are several benefits to obtaining a certificate in emergency management, including increased knowledge and expertise in the field, which can be advantageous for career advancement or job security. Additionally, having a certification may qualify an individual for various roles within the emergency management field, such as working with government agencies or private organizations.

However, there are also drawbacks to obtaining a certificate in emergency management. The cost of tuition and materials can be expensive and time consuming. Also, employers may not recognize the certification as a valid credential if it is not from an accredited institution or program. Furthermore, since certifications are typically focused on specific areas of study, they may become outdated over time if new technologies or methods are developed that require more current knowledge and skills than what is taught in the coursework.

Ultimately, it is up to each individual to decide if obtaining an Emergency Management Specialist Certificate will be beneficial for them and their career goals. If someone feels that having this certification could help them advance professionally or secure employment in the field then they should consider pursuing it. If someone is uncertain about pursuing a certificate in emergency management then they should do additional research and contact potential employers to find out what qualifications they look for when hiring candidates.

Related: Emergency Management Specialist Resume Examples

FAQs About Emergency Management Specialist Certifications

1. What are the requirements for Emergency Management Specialist Certification?

Answer: The requirements vary depending on the level of certification sought, but generally include a combination of formal education, related experience and specialized training.

2. How long does it take to become certified as an Emergency Management Specialist?

Answer: The length of time varies depending on the level of certification sought, but typically ranges from one to two years.

3. What is the cost of Emergency Management Specialist Certification?

Answer: Costs vary depending on the certifying organization and the level of certification sought, but generally range between $500 and $2,000.

4. Are there any prerequisites for becoming an Emergency Management Specialist?

Answer: Yes, most certifying organizations require a minimum amount of related experience or education before taking their certification exams.

5. Is there a renewal process for Emergency Management Specialist Certifications?

Answer: Yes, most certifying organizations require that certifications be renewed every few years in order to maintain their validity.