Public Info Management Theories & Concepts
Public Info Management Theories & Concepts
The Master Public Information Officer Program (MPIOP) is the final component of the public information training series. This program consists of a three (3) course series that prepares public information officers for an expanded role in delivering public information and warning using a strategic whole community approach.
The program reinforces the qualities needed to lead whole community public information/external affairs programs, provides relevant management theories and concepts, and uses case studies to enhance public information/external affairs skill sets. MPIOP participants work within a collaborative environment on projects and establish a network of peers.
MPIOP participants will contribute to the body of knowledge for public information.
MPIO Paper Requirement
The MPIO paper is the culminating experience of all MPIO participants designed to reflect the MPIO participant’s commitment to lead the future of public information.
The MPIO paper is an original paper, developed and finalized over the course of the 10 month program. Strict deadlines are assigned during key stages and failure to meet the deadlines will preclude a participant from completing the program.
Previous MPIO Papers
Master PIO student papers can be found in the NTEC Library Catalog:
Search MPIO PapersWho Should Apply
MPIOP is for public information officers with the pertinent background and extensive experience as a public information officer who have demonstrated a sphere of influence capable of advancing the relevance of whole community external affairs.
All applicants to the MPIO program must have successfully completed the Advanced Public Information Officer Program (v.2022 – present)
*Please note: While retaking the APIO is not required, it may be advantageous.
Applications from individuals who have completed the 2022 version or later
will receive a higher rating.
Classroom Course Requirements
The MPIO program consists of the following 3 classroom courses, comprising 15 days (120 hours) of learning. Attendance at each course is mandatory.
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E0389: Master Public Information Officer - Implementing Communications Strategies for Whole Community Leadership
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E0393: Master Public Information Officer - Applying Advanced Concepts in Public Information and Communications
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E0394: Master Public Information Officer - Mastering Public Advocacy Plans to Create an Effective Community of Stakeholders
Fiscal Year Course Schedule
The MPIO on campus classroom courses are typically scheduled as one cohort series per fiscal year. The courses are not offered individually. Cadidates selected to a cohort must attend each course in sequence, and in person, throughout the series progression.
FY 2025
- E0389: Dec 2-6, 2024
- E0393: Apr 7-11, 2025
- E0394: Sep 15-19, 2025
MPIO Selection Process
The National Disaster & Emergency Management University (NDEMU) Emergency Management Professional Program Branch will start accepting applications for the Master Public Information Officer Program (MPIOP) April, 2025 – June 1, 2025 for the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Cohort. A formal selection board will convene to review the application packages with an announcement of the results made to applicants in August.
Applications will be evaluated based on the following requirements:
- Completion of the Advanced Public Information Officer Program v.2022 – present
Please note: While retaking the APIO is not required, it may be advantageous. Applications from individuals who have completed the 2022 version or later will receive a higher rating. - Pertinent background and extensive experience as a public information officer
- Basic PIO instructional experience (recommended not required)
- Substantial continuing service and commitment to the field
- Sphere of influence to advance whole community external affairs
There are a limited number of spaces for the Cohort and applications are expected to be very competitive in nature. Applicants are encouraged to review all selection and application requirements before submitting their application package.
Application packages will be reviewed by the selection committee.
How to Apply
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Verify Qualification
- Review and verify the candidacy requirements for selection to the MPIO program
- Application open period for FY 2026 will open April 1, 2025 – June 1, 2025
- Incomplete applications, and applications submitted outside of the open period will not be considered
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Download Application Package
The MPIO Application Package Document is the only acceptable document to complete when applying to the MPIO program. Incomplete packages and additional attachments will not be considered.
- Download the fillable PDF application package below
- Save the document in the format required for submission:
- LastnameFirstname.MPIO.FY24 (e.g. PolitanoPhilip.MPIOP.FY24)
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Complete the MPIO Application Package
Complete the MPIO application form within the space provided with this document. This is the only acceptable document to complete when applying to the MPIO program. Incomplete packages and additional attachments will not be considered.
What to include in MPIO application package:
- Candidate Information
- A cover letter requesting consideration for admission to the program and specifying the applicant’s qualifications and expectations of the program
- Resume
- Master Public Information Officer Program Commitment Statement indicating a commitment to complete the entire program, which consists of the three resident courses at NDEMU and the MPIOP Paper.
- Master Public Information Officer Program Questionnaire
- A Recommendation letter from your Supervisor
- Signatures section has a location for the electronic signatures of both the applicant and the applicant’s supervisor
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Submit Application Package
For consideration of selection to the MPIO program, simply email the completed application package document to FEMA-Master_PIO_Program@fema.dhs.gov.
- The application package is the only document accepted
- Incomplete packages and additional attachments will not be considered
- Ensure the package file name meets the required format above
Once the selection board concludes, you will be notified of the selection status via the email address provided during application.
Tuition and Travel Reimbursement
There is no cost of tuition for the Master Public Information Officer courses.
Some individuals taking courses at the National Emergency Training Center (NETC) in Emmitsburg, Maryland may be eligible for stipend reimbursement. For information about travel reimbursement eligibility and procedures, see the NETC Welcome Package.
Eligible for stipend reimbursement
- State, local or tribal government representatives.
- Recognized volunteer organization representatives.
- Active emergency management organization representatives.
- Representatives from state or local fire organizations
Not eligible for reimbursement
- Federal government. (Federal students are subject to federal travel regulations and travel under orders prepared by their office.)
- Private industry employees.
- Employees who are contracted to federal, state, or local government entities (such as rural-metro departments).
- Representatives of a foreign organization.
Further Information
For more information about the MPIO program, please see the EMPP list of frequently asked questions
For further inquiries about the MPIO program, please see the EMPP points of contact list
