The US Department of Homeland Security was created in response to the 9/11 terrorist attack, in 2001. However, homeland security has grown to mean much more than responding to major emergencies. These days, the department’s main efforts are to prevent, address, and respond to terrorism, natural disasters, and other large threats placed on the American people. Today, DHS is one of the largest federal agencies, with more than 185,000 employees. Additionally, domestic security has evolved to other branches in law enforcement, agencies abroad, and the private sector as well.

Homeland Security career opportunities are at your fingertips!

Photo by Collin Armstrong on Unsplash

Careers In Homeland Security

Homeland security professionals protect the country from dangers such as terrorist attacks, cyber terrorism, crime, and national disasters. The job consists of anticipating problems and preparing plans to mitigate them, with the hope of preventing them from happening in the first place. Some benefits of the career include being able to work at the federal state, and local government level, being able to travel, and enjoying a good income. The average salary is $70,500 per year, but managerial and executive positions offer far more than that. A growing concern, the DHS is frequently hiring new, talented, and committed professionals.

Education Requirements For A Career In Homeland Security

Professionals in the field of homeland security are valued for being highly trained and skilled. For that reason, you will need at least a bachelor’s degree to pursue this career. Many institutions now offer a homeland security bachelor’s program, offering a well-rounded course calendar to prepare students for a job in the sector. However, you could also get a bachelor’s degree in political science, global development, and various other subjects that offer insight into homeland security issues. 

Once you have a bachelor’s degree, you may want to consider further education. Obtaining a master’s degree or special certifications can greatly improve your chances of employment. The American Board for Certification in Homeland Security is one of the most respected certifying bodies and can help you specialize in things like threat analysis, disaster preparedness, and sabotage.

5 Top Schools That Offer Homeland Security Degrees Online

Did you know you can get a homeland security degree online? Not only are the following programs excellent, but they also they offer flexible scheduling and affordable tuition.

5. The University of Alaska-Fairbanks

The University of Alaska-Fairbanks is one of the best online schools for homeland security. Their Homeland Security and Emergency Management bachelor’s degree is one of the best in the country. Within the program, students also have the option to choose a concentration such as cybersecurity, emergency management, fire management, and more. The school offers a quality education at an affordable price and graduates tend to find employment straight out of the program.

4. National University

NU’s Homeland Security and Emergency Management online degree gives students the fundamentals and then some. The program includes courses on security issues, cultures of terrorism, emergency preparedness, and more. Best of all, students in a hurry can take part in the accelerated program to finish their degrees quickly.

3. Keiser University

Keiser University’s homeland security bachelor degree prepares students for managerial positions within the field. The main purpose of the program is to prepare and inform graduates of current issues that threaten American society. This online program goes above and beyond by offering excellent placement options for students upon graduating.

2. Campbell University

Campbell University first created its online programs with military personnel in mind. Its online homeland security degree is one of the most comprehensive, covering all aspects of security needed to secure a job in the field. A well-known and respected program, students can expect to go on to become leaders in the national security sector.

1. Arizona State University

ASU’s online programs have some of the highest standards in the country. As a result, graduates are highly sought-after when seeking employment. The school offers an online degree in Public Service and Public Policy which concentrates on Emergency Management and Homeland Security.

Begin Your Career In Homeland Security Now

If you’re still not sure what specific job you’d like to have, rest assured that a degree in homeland security qualifies you for a wide variety of work. There are numerous career opportunities in the Homeland Security industry, including working for local law enforcement agencies, the federal government, private companies, and non-profit organizations. Getting started in this exciting and rewarding career path is as easy as starting your search for online degree programs today.