Master’s degree1,500 h · Online · 11 modules

Master's in Crisis Management and Decision-Making in Emergencies

This master's gives you the skills and knowledge you need to lead and coordinate effective responses to any kind of crisis. You will learn to analyze risks, plan mitigation strategies and make critical decisions under pressure, minimizing the impact on lives and property, and you will work with realistic simulations, predictive data tools, crisis communication techniques and methods for managing multidisciplinary teams and restoring operations after an incident.

Duration1,500 h

ModeOnline

Start1 December

Modules11

Program diagnosis

Prior knowledge check

These are the skills this program gives you. Tick the ones you already master and we will tell you which part of the syllabus is for you.

Your diagnosis

6of 6 to cover

You are starting from scratch in this subject. The program is designed precisely for that.

About the program

What is the Master's in Crisis Management and Decision-Making in Emergencies?

This master's covers the whole crisis cycle, from anticipation to recovery. You will study the types and phases of crises; decision frameworks such as OODA and DECIDE, heuristics and cognitive biases under pressure; predictive models based on statistics, machine learning, explainable AI, Monte Carlo simulation and digital twins; big data, IoT sensors, GIS and remote sensing for real-time monitoring and early warning; decision support systems and interoperable platforms for multi-agency coordination; integrated risk and vulnerability management under the Sendai Framework, ISO 31000 and NIST; tactical and operational command of complex incidents, resource allocation and team resilience; crisis communication, spokespeople, information management and cybersecurity; and recovery, psychosocial support, lessons learned and organizational resilience under ISO 22316, including the recovery plan of a maritime organization.

What sets this master's apart: it combines the human side of command, with leadership, stress management and communication, and a strong data side, in which predictive analytics and digital tools are used to anticipate scenarios rather than only react to them; it treats ethics, data privacy and the mitigation of bias as part of every decision; it applies the methods to natural disasters, technological failures, pandemics and maritime emergencies alike; and it closes with a Final Project in which you design an integrated crisis decision-making model based on predictive analysis and emerging technologies.

Program typeMaster’s degree

ModeOnline

Duration1,500 hours

Modules11

Start1 December

Program highlights

Decisions under pressure: OODA and DECIDE frameworks, heuristics, cognitive biases and decision support systems.
Predictive analytics: statistics, machine learning, explainable AI, Monte Carlo simulation and digital twins for crisis scenarios.
Monitoring and early warning: big data, IoT sensors, GIS, remote sensing and dynamic risk maps.
Risk and command: Sendai Framework, ISO 31000, NIST, multi-agency coordination, resource allocation and business continuity.
Crisis communication: information protocols, spokespeople, social media, cybersecurity and ethics.
Recovery and resilience: damage assessment, psychosocial support, lessons learned and ISO 22316.

Syllabus

Syllabus of the Master's in Crisis Management and Decision-Making in Emergencies

11 modules. Select a module to see its content.

Module 1

Advanced strategies and predictive models for integrated crisis management and emergency decision-making

1.1. Foundations of integrated crisis management: definitions, types of crisis and critical phases
1.2. Predictive models and their use: statistical analysis, machine learning and artificial intelligence systems in emergencies
1.3. Developing crisis scenarios: multivariable simulation and probabilistic risk assessment
1.4. Advanced mitigation strategies: design and implementation of dynamic, adaptive plans for critical situations
1.5. Integrating geospatial information systems (GIS) and big data for real-time monitoring
1.6. Data-driven decision-making: frameworks (OODA, DECIDE) and optimization algorithms under pressure
1.7. Technology tools for crisis management: collaborative platforms, predictive dashboards and early warning systems
1.8. Strategic communication and information management in complex situations: managing uncertainty and multichannel communication
1.9. Post-crisis evaluation and analysis: key performance indicators, lessons learned and continuous improvement
1.10. International regulations and standards applied to emergency management and decision-making in critical contexts

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 2

Technological innovation and data analysis for an effective response to crises and emergencies

2.1. The current landscape of technological innovation in crisis management: trends, challenges and opportunities
2.2. Foundations of data analysis applied to emergencies: types of data, sources and information quality
2.3. Big data in emergency situations: capture, processing and storage of massive volumes of information
2.4. Advanced predictive analysis tools: machine learning, artificial intelligence and statistical modeling to anticipate critical scenarios
2.5. Integrating geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing for real-time monitoring and assessment
2.6. Development and use of collaborative digital platforms for inter-agency coordination and crisis communication
2.7. IoT (Internet of Things) sensors for early detection and dynamic tracking of emerging events
2.8. Protocols for processing massive data during emergencies: cleaning, validation and assurance of information integrity
2.9. Advanced data visualization: dashboards, interactive maps and simulation tools to support decision-making
2.10. Data management in multi-agency settings: interoperability, open standards and information security

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 3

Predictive models, technological innovation and data analysis for decision-making in crises and emergencies

3.1. Foundations of predictive models: definition, types and applications in crisis management
3.2. Machine learning and deep learning algorithms: supervised, unsupervised and neural networks and their implementation in emergency scenarios
3.3. Advanced big data analysis techniques for the early detection of critical events
3.4. Integrating IoT sensors into real-time monitoring systems: capture, processing and transmission of vital information
3.5. Technology architectures for building predictive models: cloud computing, edge computing and their impact on the speed of decision-making
3.6. Developing simulations and digital twins to anticipate complex disaster management scenarios
3.7. Explainable artificial intelligence (XAI): how to validate and trust automated predictions for critical decisions
3.8. Methods for validating and calibrating predictive models in dynamic, highly uncertain environments
3.9. Risk assessment through predictive analysis: quantification, prioritization and contingency planning
3.10. Collaborative platforms based on disruptive technologies to improve interoperability between emergency agencies

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 4

Tactical and operational crisis command: leadership in complex incidents, inter-agency coordination, resource management and continuity planning

4.1. Foundations of crisis leadership: contemporary theories applied to highly complex, volatile incidents
4.2. Advanced models of decision-making under pressure: heuristic analysis, cognitive biases and mitigation techniques in critical settings
4.3. Inter-agency coordination: design and implementation of communication and collaboration protocols between civil and military bodies and the private sector
4.4. Comprehensive resource management in emergencies: capability assessment, dynamic allocation and logistics optimization in multi-actor scenarios
4.5. Tactical and operational planning in complex incidents: agile methods for preparing, executing and adjusting response plans in real time
4.6. Building and leading multidisciplinary teams: strategies to strengthen performance, resilience and cohesion under high uncertainty
4.7. Information and communication technologies in crisis management: command and control systems, interoperable platforms and data analysis
4.8. Stress management and operational wellbeing: psychological techniques for leaders and teams in prolonged emergencies
4.9. Business continuity and essential operations planning: robust plans to ensure rapid, sustainable recovery after an incident
4.10. Advanced case studies: critical analysis of landmark incidents, lessons learned and best practice in tactical and operational command

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 5

Strategic communication and information management in crises: tools, protocols and real-time decision-making

5.1. Foundations of crisis communication: theories and models applied to emergency management
5.2. Information protocols: design and use of standardized structures for the efficient transmission of data in critical situations
5.3. Digital and technological tools for real-time monitoring and dissemination: communication platforms, alert systems and social media
5.4. Information management: collection, validation, analysis and distribution under pressure and in dynamic environments
5.5. The role of official spokespeople: training, media handling and strategic messaging to steer the public narrative
5.6. Real-time decision-making: advanced methods to assess risks, prioritize resources and anticipate scenarios using situational intelligence
5.7. Inter-agency integration: coordination between public, private and security bodies for fluid, consistent communication
5.8. Cybersecurity in crisis management: prevention, protection and response to cyberattacks that compromise information or critical infrastructure
5.9. Analysis of real cases and simulations of communication management in complex crises: applied learning and continuous improvement plans
5.10. Ethics and social responsibility in crisis communication: transparency, handling uncertainty and mitigating psychosocial impacts

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 6

Data analysis and predictive models for early intervention and an effective response to complex crises

6.1. Foundations of data analysis in crisis management: key concepts, types of data and primary and secondary sources in emergency settings
6.2. Advanced data collection and preprocessing tools: cleaning, normalization, imputation and anomaly detection in critical contexts
6.3. Descriptive and predictive statistical models applied to complex crises: regression, time series, survival analysis and multivariate analysis
6.4. Machine learning and artificial intelligence techniques for the early prediction of critical events: supervised and unsupervised algorithms, random forests, SVM and neural networks
6.5. Early warning systems based on predictive models: design, calibration, validation and dynamic adaptation to new sources of information
6.6. Risk assessment and prioritization of interventions through quantitative analysis: conditional probabilities, Monte Carlo simulation and scenario analysis
6.7. Integrating predictive models with geographic information systems (GIS) for real-time visualization and monitoring of crises
6.8. Automating and optimizing decision-making through computational intelligence: genetic algorithms, expert systems and fuzzy logic
6.9. Practical case studies: predictive models applied to natural disasters, pandemics, social conflict and technological failures
6.10. Ethical and legal aspects of data management during emergencies: privacy, information security and international regulations

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 7

Advanced strategies, predictive models and disruptive technologies for decision-making in crises and emergencies

7.1. Foundations of crisis management: definition, types, phases and essential characteristics in emergency contexts
7.2. Advanced models of decision-making under pressure: cognitive theories, heuristics, biases and their impact on operational effectiveness
7.3. Predictive models and simulation: predictive analysis, machine learning and statistical algorithms to anticipate crisis scenarios
7.4. Integrating big data and real-time analysis: data sources, processing, visualization and support for strategic decisions
7.5. Geographic information systems (GIS) and advanced georeferencing for tactical planning and response in emergencies
7.6. Disruptive technologies applied to crisis management: artificial intelligence, drones, IoT and blockchain to improve resilience and multisector coordination
7.7. Technology architectures and platforms for data and communications interoperability in multidisciplinary crisis operations
7.8. Development and evaluation of automated response protocols supported by predictive technologies and early warning systems
7.9. Decision support systems (DSS) and their configuration for dynamic, highly uncertain emergency settings
7.10. Applied case studies: analysis of complex incidents with a focus on technology implementation and organizational learning

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 8

Integrated risk and vulnerability management: assessment, mapping and effective response in highly complex scenarios

8.1. Fundamental concepts of integrated risk management: definitions, types and levels of analysis
8.2. Advanced methods for qualitative and quantitative risk assessment in complex environments
8.3. Vulnerability mapping tools: geographic information systems (GIS), multicriteria analysis and spatial modeling
8.4. Identification and characterization of natural, technological and social hazards in highly uncertain contexts
8.5. Developing dynamic risk maps for real-time visualization and updating of critical scenarios
8.6. International reference frameworks for risk and vulnerability management (Sendai Framework, ISO 31000, NIST)
8.7. Design and implementation of integrated plans for early response and adaptive mitigation
8.8. Protocols for inter-agency coordination and communication along chains of command during emergencies
8.9. Managing the crisis cycle: preparedness, response, recovery and continuous learning
8.10. Emerging technologies for monitoring and early warning of critical events (IoT, big data, artificial intelligence)

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 9

Advanced strategies, predictive models and disruptive technologies for decision-making in complex crises and high-complexity emergencies

9.1. Theoretical and practical foundations of advanced crisis management: definition, classification and analysis of multidimensional scenarios
9.2. Predictive models and stochastic simulation applied to emergency decision-making: modeling techniques, algorithms and real-time use
9.3. Artificial intelligence and machine learning as disruptive tools for anticipating and managing complex crises
9.4. Integrated decision support systems (DSS): architecture, interoperability and adaptability in dynamic, volatile environments
9.5. Big data and advanced analytics for risk assessment, pattern identification and resource optimization in critical situations
9.6. Implementing predictive analysis algorithms for early detection of emergencies and forecasting of future scenarios
9.7. Intelligent automation and robotics in the response to highly complex emergencies: drones, autonomous vehicles and remote systems
9.8. Integrating disruptive technologies: blockchain for traceability, IoT for real-time monitoring and advanced communications
9.9. Managing critical information under high uncertainty: protocols, cybersecurity and handling of sensitive data
9.10. Developing strategic plans based on predictive models: evaluation, validation and continuous adjustment through operational feedback

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 10

Recovery, lessons learned and organizational resilience

10.1. Phases of recovery after a crisis
10.2. Damage and needs assessment
10.3. Restoration of essential services
10.4. Psychosocial support for those affected and for response teams
10.5. Post-incident analysis
10.6. Lessons-learned methods
10.7. Updating plans and procedures
10.8. The ISO 22316 standard on organizational resilience
10.9. Resilience indicators
10.10. Recovery plan for a maritime organization

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Module 11

Final Project

11.1. Foundations and theoretical framework of crisis management: definitions, types and intervention models in complex emergencies
11.2. Advanced methods for developing integrated decision-making models: multicriteria analysis, decision theory under uncertainty and adaptive models
11.3. Integrating predictive analysis into crisis management: machine learning, big data and data mining techniques to anticipate critical events
11.4. Disruptive technologies in emergencies: artificial intelligence, IoT, drones and autonomous systems for real-time data collection and processing
11.5. Design and validation of early warning systems based on historical and real-time data: predictive algorithms and probabilistic models
11.6. Modular architecture of digital platforms for integrated incident management and collaborative decision-making under high pressure
11.7. Dynamic risk assessment through simulations and digital twins to visualize scenarios and support strategic crisis planning
11.8. Communication and inter-agency coordination protocols supported by disruptive technologies to improve interoperability and organizational resilience
11.9. Critical analysis and mitigation of cognitive biases in emergency decision-making using advanced computational support tools
11.10. Preparing the final project: design, implementation and presentation of an innovative crisis decision-making model based on advanced technology integration and predictive analysis, applied to real cases

At this stage

136 hestimated workload

11 wkweeks at your pace

Plan your pace

Duration and format of the Master's in Crisis Management and Decision-Making in Emergencies

It is 1,500 hours. Tell us how many you can study each week and we will tell you when you will really finish.

Hours per week

4 h30 h

With 12 h per week

months to finish

125 weeks

weeks in total

This is the pace at which most students finish. It fits well with the installment plan.

Faculty

Academic leadership and faculty

The Navalis teaching team: working professionals who teach and supervise the programs.

Dr. Marina AlcoverAcademic Director and Head of Quality Assurance

Eng. Diego CifuentesSenior Lecturer in Naval Welding and Non-Destructive Testing; Head of QA/QC for Welded Joints

Capt. Javier Abaroa (MCA)Senior Lecturer in Ship Handling, Electronic Navigation (ECDIS/Radar/ARPA) and GMDSS; STCW Compliance and Bridge Resource Management Coordinator

Dr. Pau FerrerSenior Lecturer in Naval Architecture and Simulation; Director of the Hydrodynamics and CFD Laboratory

Dr. Nuria LlobregatSenior Lecturer in Marine Meteorology, SAR and Operational Safety; Navigation Risk Management Coordinator

Eng. Javier BañulsSenior Lecturer in Electrical Engineering, Automation and ETO Engineering; Electronic Integration and Engine Alarms Coordinator

Eng. Sofía MarquinaSenior Lecturer in Materials, Composites and Corrosion Protection; Coordinator of the Advanced Paints and Coatings Line

Eng. Tomás RieraSenior Lecturer in Propulsion, Alternative Energy and Hybrid Systems; Energy Performance and Vibration Coordinator

Objectives

Objectives of the Master's in Crisis Management and Decision-Making in Emergencies

01Lead multidisciplinary teams in the effective response to complex crises, encouraging assertive communication, decision-making under pressure and efficient use of resources, with safety and the organization's strategic objectives as priorities.

02Analyze and assess risks to anticipate and mitigate the impact of emergencies, implementing specific contingency plans that take into account infrastructure vulnerability, the criticality of operations and the response capacity of staff.

03Develop and implement communication strategies to manage information and public perception during a crisis, with proactive plans, clear protocols, identification of key stakeholders and scenario simulations.

04Master tools and techniques for strategic decision-making under pressure: assess available information quickly, prioritize objectives, communicate the decision and adapt the strategy as the situation evolves.

05Design and coordinate contingency plans that ensure the operational continuity of organizations in adverse situations, identifying threats, assessing risks and applying mitigation strategies.

06Implement safety and response protocols that minimize damage and protect lives, with clear evacuation, communication and first aid procedures adapted to specific risks and integrated with external emergency services.

Careers

Career opportunities after the Master's in Crisis Management and Decision-Making in Emergencies

01Emergency managerplanning, coordination and response to natural, industrial, maritime and other crises.

02Risk analystidentification, assessment and mitigation of risks in public and private organizations.

03Crisis management consultantadvice to companies and institutions on contingency plans and response protocols.

04Business continuity specialistdevelopment and maintenance of plans that keep organizations operating through disruptions.

05Incident investigatoranalysis of the causes of accidents and disasters to prevent future events.

06Emergency plan lead or crisis management trainerleadership of response teams and delivery of courses on prevention and response.

Frequently asked questions

Questions about the Master's in Crisis Management and Decision-Making in Emergencies

Developing the skills and knowledge needed to manage crises effectively and make strategic decisions in emergencies, from anticipation and response to recovery.

Public and private sector professionals responsible for risk management, security, civil protection, law enforcement, crisis communication and emergency services, as well as consultants and analysts.

No. The modules on predictive models, machine learning and GIS focus on understanding, validating and using these tools to make decisions, not on writing code.

Yes. One module covers information protocols, spokespeople and media handling, social media, inter-agency coordination, cybersecurity and the ethics of communicating under uncertainty.

Yes. The methods apply to any type of crisis, and the recovery module ends with the recovery plan of a maritime organization.

Through case studies, crisis simulations and practical exercises in each module and a Final Project in which you design an integrated crisis decision-making model, presented before a panel.

A master's issued by Navalis Institute, together with the risk maps, contingency plans and decision models you develop during the program.

Fully online, through a virtual campus available 24/7 with live sessions that are recorded, forums and tutorials. It comprises 1500 hours of study across 11 modules of about 136 hours each.

Related programs

More programs in Safety and survival

View the whole area →

Short course · 300 hNautical Tourism Safety Course$450 · View program →Professional diploma · 800 hProfessional Diploma in Maritime Crisis Management and Rescue$740 · View program →Short course · 300 hLow-Flashpoint Fuels Safety Course: IGF Code$440 · View program →

Online admission

Admission process

No waiting for a call back. If your documents are in order, you can enroll in the same session.

Entry requirements

Profile: aimed at public and private safety and security professionals, emergency managers and coordinators, decision-makers in government bodies and NGOs, risk and emergency consultants, and graduates in social sciences, health sciences, engineering or related fields. A degree in security, civil protection, social or health sciences, engineering or a related field, or demonstrable professional experience in emergency management, law enforcement or emergency services, is recommended; basic knowledge of risk management and emergency planning is helpful.
Language: sufficient command of English to follow the classes and the technical documentation.
Technical resources: a computer with a broadband internet connection, an up-to-date browser and, ideally, a microphone and webcam.
Admission: online application, review of your profile and a short interview with the academic team.

01
Application
Your details, background and documents.
02
Instant review
We check that everything is complete and in order.
03
Enrollment
Choose full payment or instalments and reserve your place.

Start my applicationFrom $736 deposit

Admission is provisional until the committee validates the documents provided. If you do not meet the requirements, the full amount is refunded.

Any questions?

Ask us before you enroll

Leave your details and admissions will write to you to answer any questions. If you are already sure, you can apply and pay in the same session.

Enroll now