Offered exclusively by the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM), the Certified Emergency Manager (CEM) designation is a nationally and internationally recognized professional certification in the field of emergency management. Earning this prestigious certification demonstrates a professional’s qualifications, expertise, knowledge and commitment to the discipline — setting a benchmark for excellence within the industry.
Millersville University’s online Master of Science (M.S.) in Emergency Management program equips graduates and aspiring emergency managers with advanced planning concepts and skills. The program offers a multidisciplinary approach, ensuring graduates are ready to face the complexities of disaster preparedness, mitigation, response and recovery.
The comprehensive curriculum goes beyond traditional disaster and emergency preparation to prepare students for emergency management opportunities. With courses including Principles & Practices of Emergency Management and Social Dimensions of Disaster, the broad curriculum suits individuals from all backgrounds, welcoming those new to the field as well as professionals with military or emergency management experience. The capstone experience integrates theory and practice through a field experience practicum that students can tailor to their current professional role.
This unique aspect of the program ensures that graduates understand fundamental emergency management concepts through the FEMA Core Competencies and can apply theoretical underpinnings and preparedness concepts in real-world emergency management scenarios.
CEM designation is just one potential outcome for graduates of Millersville University’s online M.S. in Emergency Management program, as students can pursue AEM certification or choose not to get certified and begin working in the field. There are various requirements for becoming a CEM. In addition to the training, references and exam required to earn AEM certification, CEMs must also provide evidence of experience, work history, professional contributions and an emergency management education. The following information can help potential students understand the testing requirements and benefits of pursuing certification.
What Is a Certified Emergency Manager?
Certified emergency managers (CEMs) play a pivotal role in safeguarding communities and organizations and guiding them through the complexities of disaster planning, response and recovery. The responsibilities of these professionals encompass disaster planning, developing detailed emergency procedures, training and educating stakeholders, coordinating multi-agency response efforts and managing communication during crises.
CEMs are instrumental in the post-disaster recovery phase, evaluating the response to improve future readiness. Their day-to-day duties involve strategic planning, risk assessment, establishing partnerships, resource management, public education and policy development to build resilient communities and organizations.
The CEM certification signifies that an individual has mastered the core concepts of mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery. It shows that they possess the practical experience and knowledge necessary for comprehensive emergency management program management. This certification also ensures that a CEM can effectively lead according to the industry’s ethical standards and execute the goals of any emergency management program. These proficiencies are why many employers prioritize the CEM credential when hiring.
Roles in the industry beyond that of CEM are lucrative, too. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), emergency management directors command a median annual salary of $79,180, with a foundational requirement of a bachelor’s degree. The CEM certification elevates emergency managers’ professional standing and earning power, making it a sought-after qualification.
What Is the IAEM Exam?
The IAEM exam, required for both AEMs and CEMs, is a rigorous assessment of a candidate’s knowledge and proficiency in emergency management. Consisting of 120 multiple-choice questions, of which 100 are scored, the exam employs a scaled scoring system to determine the examinee’s results. This system translates the total number of correct responses into a standardized scale, with a passing mark set at 500 on a range from 200 to 800.
Candidates have 2.5 hours to complete the examination. To be eligible to sit for the exam, candidates must first pay a certification fee — $425 for IAEM members and $635 for non-IAEM members — and have their online credential application reviewed and approved by the CEM Commission. This process ensures that only those with a serious commitment and understanding of emergency management principles undertake the certification, maintaining the high standard and integrity of the CEM designation.
Benefits of Earning a CEM Certification
Earning the CEM certification is a strategic move for emergency managers aiming to elevate their careers, gain professional recognition and make a significant impact in various sectors. The certification not only serves as a testament to one’s professional competence but also opens doors to an established network of credentialed professionals. It also helps professionals foster connections and opportunities within the emergency management community.
CEM certification can significantly enhance career prospects, offering access to a wider range of employment opportunities across local and state government, hospitals and healthcare facilities, educational institutions, private corporations and non-profit organizations. Certification provides benefits such as career development counseling and formal recognition of educational activities, equipping emergency managers with the tools and recognition needed to excel in their field.
This comprehensive approach to professional development underscores the value of the CEM certification in leading a capable and resilient emergency management workforce ready to tackle challenges across multiple environments. Whether students want to earn their AEM or CEM certifications or begin their careers without earning certification, Millersville’s online M.S. in Emergency Management program is an essential first step for each of these career paths, equipping students with the expertise needed to succeed as leaders in the field.
Learn more about Millersville University’s online Master of Science in Emergency Management program.
