2025-2026 Undergraduate Catalog
Emergency and Disaster Health Systems
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Faculty
Department Chair
Lauren Clay
Associate Professor
Lauren Clay
B.A., La Salle University, 2005; M.P.H., Drexel University, 2010; Ph.D., University of Delaware, 2014
Jungwon Yeo
B.A., Handong Global University (South Korea), 2007; M.P.A., University of Central Florida, 2009; Ph.D., University of Pittsburgh, 2015
Assistant Professor
Farah Nibbs
B.A., Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, 2009; M.A., University of Westminster (U.K.), 2014; M.P.H., SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, 2018; Ph.D., University of Delaware, 2024
Ming Xie
B.A., Shanxi University (China), 2002; M.A., 2005; Ph.D., 2010; Ph.D., University of Nebraska at Omaha, 2020
Clinical Associate Professor
Crista Lenk
B.S., Pennsylvania State University, 1997; M.P.A., West Virginia University, 1999
Clinical Assistant Professor
Kyle Bates
B.S., Rochester Institute of Technology, 1997; M.S., University of Maryland, Baltimore County, 2004
Associate Teaching Professor
Gary Williams, Jr.
B.S., University of Maryland, Baltimore County, 2004; M.S., 2019
Visiting Clinical Lecturer
Jaeyoung Yang
B.S., University of Maryland, Baltimore County, 2016; M.S., 2020
Medical Director
Matthew Levy
B.S., University of Maryland, Baltimore County, 2000; M.S., 2008; D.O., Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, 2006
Program Management Specialist
Renee Decker
B.A., Western Maryland College, 1990
Professor Emeritus
Richard Bissell
B.A., University of California, Davis, 1973; M.S., University of Colorado, 1979; M.A., University of Denver, 1979; Ph.D., 1984
Jeffrey Mitchell
B.S., St. Mary’s Seminary and University, 1971; M.S., Loyola College, 1975; Ph.D., University of Maryland, College Park, 1983
Bruce Walz
B.A., Western Maryland College, 1975; M.A., Hood College, 1982; Ph.D., University of Maryland, College Park, 1985
Associate Teaching Professor Emeritus
Dwight Polk
B.A., Virginia Polytechnic and State University, 1981; M.S.W., University of Maryland, Baltimore, 1996
Instructor Emeritus
John Ashworth
B.A., University of Virginia, 1967; M.H.A., The George Washington University, 1975
The Department of Emergency and Disaster Health Systems (EDHS) is dedicated to equipping students for diverse roles within a wide range of health organizations involved in emergency and disaster management. These organizations encompass healthcare institutions, health departments, emergency management agencies, and emergency medical services.
Within the EDHS department, students can pursue an Emergency and Disaster Health Systems, B.S. , which offers three distinct pathways to graduation. These pathways include a concentration in paramedic studies, a track focusing on Emergency and Disaster Health Management, and another emphasizing Emergency Health Leadership. Additionally, the department provides two minor options: the Emergency and Disaster Management Minor and the Emergency Health Systems Minor . After thoughtful coordination with both undergraduate and graduate advisors, students may have the opportunity to pursue a combined accelerated bachelor of science and master of science degree program.
Admission to the Emergency and Disaster Health Systems major is concurrent with the general admission requirements at UMBC. Both first year and transfer students must submit university application forms to the UMBC Office of Undergraduate Admissions and Orientation. Students can complete this degree on a part-time basis.
Paramedic Concentration
The UMBC Emergency and Disaster Health Systems (EDHS) - Paramedic Concentration is a rigorous four-year Bachelor of Science program that prepares students for advanced roles in emergency medical services and disaster response. The program combines foundational scientific coursework with hands-on paramedic training to equip graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary for this critical field.
Program Overview
- Years 1 & 2: Students complete prerequisite biology, chemistry, anatomy and physiology coursework while earning EMT certification
- Years 3 & 4: Accepted students enter the core paramedic program, which focuses on advanced clinical training and professional development
Application Process
Applications for the core paramedic program open during the spring semester, typically in January, for admission into the final two years of the program. To qualify, students must meet the following criteria by the subsequent August:
Academic Requirements
- Completion of all lower-division EDHS paramedic concentration prerequisites with a ‘C’ grade or higher before the following August.
Certification and Experience
- Valid Maryland EMT certification or valid EMT certification from another state or currently enrolled in a recognized EMT educational program.
- Documentation of at least 100 patient contacts as a primary EMT.
- Current CPR (BCLS) certification.
Health Requirements
- Verification of physical health and immunization status.
- Students must pass a drug screen and extensive background check.
Admissions
Students must first apply and be accepted to UMBC before being eligible for admission to the Paramedic Concentration.
Emergency and Disaster Health Management Track
In our ever-changing world, the need for skilled professionals in Emergency and Disaster Health Management has become increasingly critical. The program offers students a comprehensive education in the foundational principles of emergency management while providing the flexibility to tailor electives to specific areas of interest within this dynamic field.
Emergency Health Leadership Track
The Emergency and Health Leadership Track is tailored for students who have finished their paramedic education through a CAAHEP accredited program and are seeking to obtain their bachelor’s degree. New students are required to consult with the track advisor to guarantee the proper transfer of credits for all paramedic classes completed at their previous institution.
Emergency and Disaster Management Minor
The Emergency and Disaster Management Minor introduces students to the principles, strategies, and practices for managing emergencies and mitigating the impact of disasters. Students will gain theoretical knowledge for addressing various types of emergencies, including natural disasters, technological hazards, and human-made crises.
Emergency Health Systems Minor
The Emergency Health Systems Minor integrates healthcare, public health, and emergency and disaster management knowledge to equip students with the skills needed to effectively assess, triage, and treat patients in emergency and disaster situations.
Academic Advising
Strategic planning and close adherence to program requirements are crucial to completing the major successfully. Therefore, early, and ongoing advising is essential. The EDHS faculty team is committed to guiding each student towards academic success. Advisors offer support in crafting a personalized academic pathway towards graduation and are available to discuss post-graduate education and career prospects. A student’s plans, whether pursuing graduate studies or entering the workforce, significantly shape their academic journey and course choices. Given these factors, it’s imperative to establish early and consistent communication with a program advisor.
Students must meet with their advisors each semester during advance registration to review their progress toward fulfilling major and university requirements, but students are also encouraged to meet with their advisor at any point during the semester.
For more information about the program’s advising process and answers to general questions are available from the department website.
Career and Academic Paths
Paramedic Concentration
Over the past three decades, federal, state, and local initiatives have introduced innovative programs to enhance the quality and efficiency of emergency healthcare services. These advancements have led to the creation of numerous career opportunities within the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) field. Today’s EMS system requires skilled health professionals at all levels. Based on their education and experience, EMS professionals can serve as emergency medical technicians, educators, supervisors, coordinators, planners, consultants, managers, and directors.
Moreover, EMS roles extend to various sectors, including ambulance providers, fire and rescue services, hospitals, industrial health services, the military, and volunteer EMS organizations. The comprehensive academic foundation provided by the EDHS bachelor’s degree prepares students for these roles and advanced studies. Graduates may pursue further education in sciences, medicine, physician assistant (PA) programs, public health, hospital administration, and other health management fields. The program also provides a strong foundation for students interested in applying to medical school or pursuing graduate-level training as a physician assistant.
Emergency and Disaster Health Management Track
Upon completion of the program, graduates will emerge as well-rounded professionals equipped with the essential knowledge, practical skills, and specialized expertise needed to navigate the complexities of emergency and disaster health management. Whether they pursue careers in government agencies, non-profit organizations, healthcare institutions, or international relief efforts, graduates are prepared to make a meaningful difference in safeguarding communities and saving lives during times of crisis.
Emergency Health Leadership Track
Following graduation, individuals with a bachelor’s degree in paramedicine unlock a wide array of career possibilities in the field of emergency medical services (EMS). Equipped with advanced knowledge and skills acquired through their academic journey, graduates are primed for roles beyond traditional paramedic positions. Opportunities may include leadership roles within EMS agencies, such as EMS coordinator or supervisor positions. Moreover, graduates may explore avenues in healthcare administration, disaster response coordination, or pursue further education to specialize in areas such as critical care paramedicine, flight paramedicine, or healthcare management. With their blend of clinical expertise and academic training, bachelor’s degree holders in paramedicine are well-equipped to excel in diverse and rewarding career paths within the healthcare and emergency services sectors.
Combined B.S./M.S.
Students in the EDHS undergraduate program who meet specific qualifications may opt for a combined B.S./M.S. degree that can, under optimal conditions, be completed in five years total time for both degrees.
Graduate Programs
EDHS graduate study at UMBC encompasses all EMS system components, with the program primarily focused on preparing professionals for leadership roles requiring skills in planning, research and development, and organizational operations. The curriculum is designed to provide graduate level training and education to health care providers, researchers, educators, policy makers and administrators. EDHS offers a master of science degree with tracks in EDHS education, emergency and disaster health management, healthcare disaster/emergency management, and public health disaster/emergency management. The department also offers post-baccalaureate certificates in emergency management and healthcare emergency management.
In collaboration with the School of Public Policy, EDHS offers specialized training in Emergency and Disaster Health Systems within the Ph.D. program. Interested students must apply to the Ph.D. program through the School of Public Policy. The Ph.D. offers foci in emergency and disaster health, healthcare emergency management, and public health emergency management. All Emergency and Disaster Health Systems courses are offered as on-campus/hybrid or via distance education (fully online) formats. The EDHS degree sequence is designed to fit the needs of part-time as well as full-time students. School of Public Policy courses are offered in-person.
Part-Time Option
The EDHS undergraduate and graduate programs can both be completed on a part-time basis. The paramedic concentration in the undergraduate major requires full-time status during the core paramedic program which occurs during a student’s last two years in the concentration. (Years 3 & 4)
Special Opportunities
UMBC’s proximity to the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) professional schools and the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) provides students unique opportunities for contacts and experiences. Included in the possibilities are: Maryland’s internationally renowned R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center, the National Study Center for Trauma/EMS, the University of Maryland School of Medicine, and the Johns Hopkins Hospital.
Student Organizations
EDHS majors, minors, and graduate students are encouraged to participate in the student Emergency Health Services Society (EHSS).
International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM) Student Chapter - organization to promote the goals of saving lives and protecting property during emergencies and disasters. IAEM is open to all UMBC students regardless of degree.
ProgramsMajorMinorCoursesEmergency and Disaster Health Systems
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