Introduction to the School of Prevention and Integral Security (EPSI – UAB)

The world is facing increasingly complex risks, ranging from technological and cyber threats to social, environmental and organisational challenges. The Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB) addresses these challenges through the School of Prevention and Integral Security (EPSI), a specialised academic institution focused on prevention, safety, security and risk management.

EPSI forms professionals capable of anticipating, analysing and managing risks in a global and interdisciplinary context, placing prevention, ethics and social responsibility at the centre of decision-making. The School combines academic excellence, applied research and strong links with public institutions and private organisations.

Our educational model is oriented towards practical learning, critical thinking and professional development, preparing students to operate in complex environments and to contribute effectively to safer and more resilient organisations and societies.

Prevention, Safety and Security Studies

Safety and security are transversal issues that affect all sectors of society: critical infrastructures, public administration, private organisations, urban environments, large events and digital ecosystems. EPSI offers specialised education in the fields of prevention, safety, security and risk management from an integral perspective.

Students acquire knowledge and skills to identify risks, design preventive strategies, manage crises and ensure organisational continuity. Key areas of study include risk analysis, emergency and crisis management, corporate security, occupational risk prevention, legal frameworks, compliance, cyber security and organisational resilience.

EPSI programmes emphasise the coordination between multiple stakeholders, the use of data and technology, and the integration of legal, organisational and human factors in security management. Graduates are prepared to work in both public and private sectors, contributing to the protection of people, assets, information and activities.

Academic Programmes

EPSI offers a range of higher education programmes, including Bachelor’s, Master’s and postgraduate studies, designed to meet the evolving needs of the safety and security sector. These programmes combine theoretical foundations with applied training and are closely connected to professional practice.

The School also provides continuous education and specialised training for professionals, fostering lifelong learning and professional upskilling in prevention and security-related fields.

Student Exchange Opportunities

EPSI actively promotes internationalisation and welcomes incoming exchange students. The School offers English-taught courses and modules within its study programmes, allowing international students to gain academic and practical insight into prevention and security from a European perspective.

Exchange opportunities are available through Erasmus+ and other international mobility programmes, typically during the academic year. Students benefit from studying at a leading public university, located near Barcelona, with access to a rich academic, cultural and professional environment.

Research and Knowledge Transfer

Research at EPSI focuses on applied and interdisciplinary approaches to prevention, safety and security. The School collaborates with researchers, professionals and institutions at national and international levels, contributing to evidence-based policies and innovative solutions.

Research areas include risk governance, crisis and emergency management, security regulation, organisational resilience, compliance, and the impact of digital technologies and artificial intelligence on safety and security.

Through research projects, publications and knowledge transfer activities, EPSI aims to strengthen the resilience of organisations and society and to support informed decision-making in complex risk scenarios. More information: https://www.uab.cat/web/prevention-and-integral-safety-and-security-1345735701860.html