Community Preparedness and Disaster Management (CPDM)

Introduction Admission and Tuition Curriculum Frequently Asked Questions As a highly skilled professional, we know you've received excellent training in being able to respond to just about any emergency or disaster. But what about working with other agencies? Have you trained across disciplines to gain a better understanding of what are the priorities and procedures of those organizations who will be working side-by-side with you during and after a major disaster event? If Katrina taught us anything -- it's that we all must all do a better job of understanding the "bigger picture" -- understanding how all of the different organizations work and operate in what will no doubt be a highly-stressed, politically-charged environment. Successful management of future disasters -- whether natural or man-made -- will only be achieved if we all work and train well together. That's why the University of North Carolina's comprehensive online disaster management program may be right for you. Developed five years ago by one of the top departments of Health Policy and Management in the country, the CPDM certificate program has admitted over 300 students and has received high praise from professionals in the field. Our one-year program covers it all -- from understanding the current issues facing disaster management to the analytical methods used to evaluate risk, as well as the roles and responsibilities of federal, state and local governmental agencies. In addition, our classes have professionals from a variety of backgrounds, thus providing a rich environment of peer networking and learning. For example, it's not unusual for us to have a class that includes veterinarians, fire and medical responders, public health officials, military personnel and community leaders. We not only encourage discussion among classmates, we also have you work together on 12-week projects. By project's end, you understand why and how the agencies around you plan and respond the way they do. In fact, some of the most important information sharing comes out of these projects. If you've been thinking about expanding your individual knowledge or you want to advance your career in disaster management, this program is a perfect fit. We run two groups of students each year -- one beginning in July and another beginning in January. Our next application deadline is November 1st. Already made up your mind? -- APPLY ONLINE HERE. If you still want to learn more about the program, please feel free to use the navigation links at the top of the page or send us an e-mail at cpdm@unc.edu. If you would like to personally speak with our Program Director (Bill Gentry), give him a call at (919) 966-4228 or email him at wgentry@email.unc.edu. Whatever you decide -- best of luck to you in your career and keep up the great work you're doing. Disaster education programs are up and coming, so when you decide you are ready to take the next step -- the University of North Carolina will be waiting to hear from you! Content for this page provided by the Department of Health Policy and Management. Please contact the webmaster with any questions or comments on content. For admission questions, please contact the Executive Programs Manager.

Last updated August 11, 2008