Explosive Ordinance Disposal: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries

Program Overview

Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) is a specialized field dedicated to the safe handling, identification, and neutralization of explosive threats, including improvised and conventional devices. This rigorous academic program prepares professionals to operate in high-risk environments by combining technical expertise with advanced tactical decision-making under pressure.

• Nuclear science: Study of radioactive materials and their behavior, essential for assessing and managing nuclear-related explosive threats.
• Computer science: Application of computational principles to analyze electronic components and circuitry found in modern explosive devices.
• Ordinance and bomb systems: In-depth examination of military and improvised explosive devices, including construction, triggering mechanisms, and deployment methods.
• Electronics: Training in circuit analysis, signal detection, and electronic countermeasures used in bomb disarmament and device manipulation.
• Industrial radiography: Use of imaging technologies to non-invasively inspect explosive devices and identify internal components.
• Non-destructive testing: Techniques for evaluating the integrity and structure of explosive materials without causing detonation or damage.
• Equipment operation: Hands-on proficiency with specialized tools, robotic systems, and protective gear used in EOD missions.
• Inventory management: Systems and protocols for tracking, storing, and maintaining explosive ordnance and related equipment.
• Investigative techniques: Methods for collecting and analyzing evidence at explosive incident sites to support criminal or military investigations.
• Forensics: Scientific analysis of explosive residues, fragments, and signatures to determine origin, type, and construction methods.
• Schematic interpretation: Ability to read and understand complex technical diagrams and blueprints of explosive devices.
• Safety procedures: Comprehensive protocols for personal protection, risk mitigation, and operational safety during all phases of EOD operations.
• Site containment: Strategies for securing and isolating hazardous zones to prevent collateral damage and ensure public safety.
• Emergency medicine: Training in trauma response and medical intervention for use in high-stress, life-threatening scenarios involving explosive incidents.