Homeland Security

Homeland Security Degrees

The Department of Homeland Security makes concentrated efforts to protect the nation against possible internal and external threats. The Department of Homeland Security is made up of several agencies including the National Guard, Coast Guard, Customs and Immigration, and the Transportation Security Administration. A Homeland Security Degree can teach you to manage emergency response and recovery efforts, protect infrastructure, gather intelligence, and maintain law and order during a crisis. You could also work for your local government as a first responder, law enforcement officer, or healthcare worker.

Homeland Security degrees prepare individuals to defend our nation against all kinds of threats. Homeland Security degree programs train students to become experts in solving problematic situations. Students will learn strategies to strengthen our nation’s infrastructure and essential systems. They will also study engineering, cyber security, and be trained to disable biological weapons.

Homeland Security degrees are available in associate, bachelor, or master levels. An associate’s degree in homeland security takes two years to complete, and is aimed at those who want to specialize in crisis and disaster management. A bachelor’s degree in homeland security takes four years to complete, and focuses on security, counter terrorism, and emergency preparedness. Certificate and diploma programs are also available, and provide added experience in the field.

Job Opportunities for Homeland Security Degrees

Graduates of Homeland Security degrees are qualified to work in many different fields. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, graduates can find work as air marshals, program analysts, telecommunications, or computer forensics specialists. There are also leadership roles at the local, state, and federal levels.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-2011 Edition