Course Number and Title:
HDM 101 Introduction to Homeland Security and Emergency Management
Prerequisites
Prerequisites: SSC 100 or concurrent
Course Credits and Hours
3 credit(s)
3 lecture hours/week
0 lab hours/week
Course Description
This course provides an introduction to agencies responsible for homeland security and emergency management, placing focus on how they prepare for and respond to a wide range of actual and potential emergencies. It examines the legal foundations, philosophical principles, and key legislation shaping the governmental structures that manage these efforts.
Additional Materials
None
Core Course Performance Objectives (CCPOs)
Use terminology specific to the emerging disciplines of homeland security and emergency management. (CCC 1, 5; PGC 1, 4, 5)
Explain the historical developments and current operations of homeland security and emergency management agencies in the United States. (CCC 2, 5; PGC 1, 4)
Explain the statutory and legislative authorities that govern homeland security service providers. (CCC 2, 5; PGC 1, 3, 4)
Interpret the characteristics and vulnerabilities associated with all-hazards threats to homeland security. (CCC 2, 6; PGC 1, 4)
Describe mitigation, prevention, and preparedness strategies in homeland security operations. (CCC 2, 6; PGC 1, 3, 4)
Explain response and recovery strategies used by federal, state, local, and private sector homeland security stakeholders. (CCC 2, 3, 6; PGC 1, 3, 4, 5)
Describe the role and importance of communication systems in homeland security operations. (CCC 1, 2; PGC 1, 4, 5)
See Core Curriculum Competencies and Program Graduate Competencies at the end of the syllabus. CCPOs are linked to every competency they develop.
Measurable Performance Objectives (MPOs)
Upon completion of this course, the student will:
- Use terminology specific to the emerging disciplines of homeland security and emergency management.
- Describe terms associated with security and emergency management.
- Apply terminology associated with security and emergency management in written and oral communication.
- Explain the historical developments and current operations of homeland security and emergency management agencies in the United States.
- Explain the unique qualities of United States federalism and its impact on homeland security.
- Explain the history of emergency management in the United States.
- Describe the events leading to the creation of the Department of Homeland Security.
- Identify the organizational structure of the Department of Homeland Security and related state and local agencies currently charged with the homeland security mission.
- Explain the statutory and legislative authorities that govern homeland security service providers.
- Identify the Homeland Security Act of 2002 and related legislation.
- Identify the Homeland Security Presidential Preparedness Directives.
- Discuss the recommendations of the 9/11 Commission.
- Discuss the constitutional implications of the USA Patriot Act.
- Interpret the characteristics and vulnerabilities associated with all-hazards threats to homeland security.
- Describe the threat posed by natural, technological, and man-made disasters.
- Describe critical infrastructure vulnerabilities in the United States.
- Describe mitigation, prevention, and preparedness strategies in homeland security operations.
- Explain the role of mitigation plans, actions, and programs.
- Describe the role of prevention and preparedness plans, actions, and programs.
- Identify the roles of the private sector in mitigation, prevention, and preparedness.
- Discuss best practices for an all-hazards approach to mitigation, prevention, and preparedness.
- Explain response and recovery strategies used by federal, state, local, and private sector homeland security stakeholders.
- Describe the response and recovery responsibilities of federal, state, and local agencies.
- Explain the purpose and structure of the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and the National Response Framework (NRF).
- Describe the roles of private sector organizations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in response and recovery operations.
- Describe the role and importance of communication systems in homeland security operations.
- Explain challenges related to interoperability in tactical emergency communications.
- Identify the components of pre-event risk communications.
- Identify the components of event emergency communications.
Evaluation Criteria/Policies
The grade will be determined using the Delaware Tech grading system:
| 90-100 |
= |
A |
| 80-89 |
= |
B |
| 70-79 |
= |
C |
| 0-69 |
= |
F |
Students should refer to the
Catalog/Student Handbook for information on the Academic Standing Policy, the Academic Integrity Policy, Student Rights and Responsibilities, and other policies relevant to their academic progress.
Final Course Grade
Calculated using the following weighted average
Evaluation Measure | Grade |
Summative Assessments |
Exams (2-3) (equally weighted) | 30% |
Homeland Security Terminology and Systems Brief | 10% |
Policy Brief on Homeland Security Legislation | 10% |
Threat & Vulnerability Analysis Report | 10% |
Formative Assessments |
The course will contain various formative assessments, including but not limited to: Quizzes Assignments Career research Journals Discussion boards
| 40% |
Total | 100% |
Program Graduate Competencies (PGCs are the competencies every graduate will develop specific to his or her major)
- Demonstrate knowledge of the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, courts, corrections, and homeland security.
- Analyze causes of adult and juvenile crime.
- Explain the importance of professionalism, ethics, and critical thinking skills in the field of criminal justice.
- Apply skills needed in investigation, report writing, and crisis intervention.
- Demonstrate communication skills appropriate to criminal justice, including cultural competence and trauma-informed care.
Core Curriculum Competencies (CCCs are the competencies every graduate will develop)
- Apply clear and effective communication skills.
- Use critical thinking to solve problems.
- Collaborate to achieve a common goal.
- Demonstrate professional and ethical conduct.
- Use information literacy for effective vocational and/or academic research.
- Apply quantitative reasoning and/or scientific inquiry to solve practical problems.
Students in Need of Accommodations Due to a Disability
We value all individuals and provide an inclusive environment that fosters equity and student success. The College is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. Students are encouraged to schedule an appointment with the campus Disabilities Support Counselor to request an accommodation needed due to a disability. The College's policy on accommodations for persons with disabilities can be found in the College's Guide to Requesting Academic Accommodations and/or Auxiliary Aids Students may also access the Guide and contact information for Disabilities Support Counselors through the Student Resources web page under Disabilities Support Services, or visit the campus Advising Center.