COFFEE COUNTY, Ga. (WALB) - In a time when natural disasters and public emergencies are becoming more common, the demand for trained emergency management professionals is on the rise. South Georgia State College (SGSC) is answering that call—becoming the only college in Georgia to offer a bachelor’s degree in Emergency Management.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, emergency management jobs are expected to grow by 4% over the years and SGSC’s goal is to prepare students to step confidently into those roles.

“During Hurricane Helene, we had the emergency operations center open, and leaders from across public safety sectors were in one room making critical decisions,” stated by Andy Smith, EMS Director of Coffee County Regional. “Those choices were vital for both the community and our teams on the ground.”

The program is fully online, giving students the flexibility to balance work, home, and education—without the expense or hassle of traveling out of state. The program is designed with first responders in mind, helping them advance their careers without putting their lives on hold.

The program is designed with first responders in mind, helping them advance their careers without putting their lives on hold.

“Because we’re online, students can stay in their communities, keep their jobs, and still earn their bachelor’s degree,” said Mitch Roundtree, Academic Advisor.

For many in public safety, this program is more than just a degree—it’s a chance to grow, lead, and make a lasting impact right where they are.

Joseph Holloway, Chair of SGSC’s Business Management and Marketing program said, “We’re aiming to grow leaders who will serve not just South Georgia, but communities across the region.”

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