Why This Matters
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WORK IN ONE OF 14 HOMELAND SECURITY AREAS
The U.S Department of Homeland Security is the largest employer of homeland security professionals in agencies like the Coast Guard, Customs and Border Protection, the Secret Service, and more.
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THE TSA RECEIVED REAUTHORIZATION IN 2018
The Transportation Security Administration, which is critical to ensuring safe traveling conditions within the U.S. and abroad, will continue expanding in the future, thanks to recent Congressional reauthorization.
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CYBERSECURITY JOBS TO INCREASE 32% BY 2028
As cyberattacks become more frequent, the demand for trained professionals who can track threats and prevent attacks is increasing at a faster than average pace. Individuals focusing on cybersecurity will have an edge in this area.
Our Research
There are a few types of degrees one can earn in homeland security. At the bachelor’s level, programs are usually either a Bachelor of Science (BS) or Bachelor of Arts (BA). For master’s programs, most are either Master of Science (MS) or Master of Professional Studies (MPS). We reviewed a variety of programs so you could select the one that best fits your educational status and career goals.
All of the programs are offered online, although some can be completed in person or in a hybrid format.
The programs on our list are all offered by schools with regional accreditation, which is a guarantee that they meet high standards for quality education.
Once we refined our list of programs, we evaluated their coursework, cost, reputation, flexibility, and faculty, and then we calculated an Intelligent Score for each on a scale of 0 to 100. For a more extensive explanation, check out Our Ranking Methodology.
- 56 hours to write this article
- 116 universities and colleges we assessed
- 291 education programs we compared
The Top 62 Online Homeland Security Degree Programs
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What You Should Know About This Degree
Homeland security as we know it is a relatively new field. Although some agencies within the Department of Homeland Security, like the Coast Guard and the Secret Service, have existed for years, the DHS itself was not created until 2002, after the 9/11 terror attacks. Therefore, many homeland security degree programs are new as well.
As the field continues to develop, so do the skills and training needed to work in homeland security. Degree programs continually update their curriculums to reflect these changes, and individuals going into this field should be adaptable as well.
Homeland security encompasses law enforcement, border patrol, cybersecurity, military operations, emergency response, immigration services, and more. As there is no clearly defined path to a career in homeland security, you should give some consideration to your career goals and the specific role you see yourself playing within homeland security. This can help guide you towards a program that teaches a broad range of skills, or offers a chance to specialize.
If you are a federal, state, local, tribal or territorial employee, or an active U.S. military officer, you can attend the Naval Postgraduate School’s homeland security master’s program. The U.S. government offers free tuition to individuals who work in certain government agencies.
What’s Next?
Here are some questions to ask when researching Homeland Security programs:
- How are online courses delivered? Online courses are usually delivered synchronously or asynchronously. In asynchronous courses, students can access course materials and lectures and complete assignments at any time. Synchronous courses are less flexible, as they require students to attend classes remotely on a fixed schedule. Find out how the courses in your program are delivered, and find the best fit for your schedule.
- Can I pass a background check? Due to the sensitive nature of homeland security jobs, passing a background check is typically a prerequisite for hiring. While having incidents or infractions on your record won’t preclude you from earning a degree in homeland security, it can affect your job prospects post-graduation. Talk to an advisor prior to enrolling in a program if you are concerned about your background check.
In addition to researching the program’s curriculum, be sure to explore the application process and financial aid options. This information is available on the school’s website. You can also contact their admissions and financial aid department directly if you have any questions. Financial aid options include loans, scholarships, assistantships, and tuition assistance from your employer.