Master of Public Safety
University of Virginia

Program Details

The Master of Public Safety program at the University of Virginia is ideal for public safety professionals who want to advance to leadership roles within their field. This flexible program is delivered 100% online and provides the flexibility to take courses asynchronously so you can complete your degree around your personal and professional obligations. 

Taught by an expert and experienced faculty, the curriculum focuses on building skills that are essential to navigating the complex public safety challenges of tomorrow. The curriculum is relevant to law enforcement and adjacent public safety fields including the fire service, emergency management, and more. Specifically, courses focus on effective leadership, communication, emergency planning, public safety law, human resources, and financial management. Upon graduation, students will have a deeper understanding of how to run complex organizations, negotiate and collaborate with peer agencies, and build and nurture the community relationships that are vital for success.

The Master of Public Safety has the benefit of being offered by UVA, one of the most well-known public universities in the U.S., which maintains a strong relationship with the FBI and an expansive network of graduates working in the public safety sector. This strong professional network will lay the groundwork for graduates to take the next step in their careers. 

Learning Pace

Institution-Paced

% Online

100% Online

School Accreditation & Licensing

University of Virginia is accredited by:

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Program Requirements & Restrictions

Minimum Education

Bachelor Degree

Recommended GPA

2.5 or above (4.0 scale)

Admission Tests

Proof of English Language Proficiency (International Students)

Application Requirements

Official College Transcript(s), Recommendation/Reference Letter(s), Resume/CV, Statement of Purpose/Intent

Additional Info

  • Applicants should have significant professional experience in public safety (typically 5 or more years and supervisory experience).
  • Students with limited professional experience or less than a 2.5 GPA may petition the Program Director for an exception.