An online master's in homeland security equips students with skills in emergency management, risk assessment, and counterterrorism. It teaches you to address complex security issues effectively and helps you gain advanced leadership and strategic analysis capabilities, preparing you to safeguard infrastructure and ensure public safety in diverse roles.
Key Takeaways:
- Liberty University, which hosts a master's in homeland security online, is the most popular online graduate school, with 45,783 distance learners.
- Virginia Commonwealth University leads in earnings, with a median salary of $83,925 for its homeland security graduates.
- Northeastern University has an impressive 97% retention rate overall, showing us that students are engaged and committed. It hosts an online MS in Security and Resilience Studies - Counterterrorism and Conflict Studies.
Our methodology evaluates online master's degrees in homeland security, focusing on accredited institutions with the highest online enrollment at the graduate level. We prioritize strong online student representation.
List Of Accredited Online Homeland Security Schools
2025 Best Online Master's in Homeland Security Degrees
- Online Enrollment: 45,783 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $10,170
- Location: Lynchburg (VA)
Online degree:
Why we like them: LU offers exceptional opportunities for online learners, boasting an enrollment of 45,783 students. The MS in Homeland Security and Disaster Management features a 36-credit curriculum delivered 100% online in 8-week courses, allowing you to balance education with your personal life. Key courses include Foundations of Homeland Security, Organization and Administration, and Understanding Terrorism. Students can transfer up to half of their required credits. LU is accredited by SACSCOC, ensuring a high standard of academic quality.
- Online Enrollment: 27,242 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $42,300
- Location: Baltimore (MD)
Online degree:
Why we like them: JHU ranks in the top 1% nationally for online enrollment, and it also boasts a 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio and a graduation rate in the 97th percentile. The Master of Arts in Government with a Security Studies concentration offers flexibility with classes in Washington, D.C., or online, requiring 12 courses to complete within 16 to 24 months. Concentrations include Political Communication, Security Studies, and Democracy Studies and Governance. This program is designed for diverse professionals, equipping you with practical skills to tackle political and policymaking challenges while fostering networking opportunities.
- Online Enrollment: 22,314 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $18,345
- Location: Manchester (NH)
Online degree:
Why we like them: SNHU Online stands out with an impressive enrollment of 22,314 students, placing it among the top 1% of most popular online schools in the country. Its online criminal justice master's focuses on advanced counterterrorism and homeland security, specifically. This 36-credit program is fully accredited and offers concentrations such as Public Safety Administration and Advanced Counterterrorism. The 12-course includes Criminology and Public Policy classes, emphasizing practical threat assessment and intelligence analysis skills.
- Online Enrollment: 16,309 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $18,654
- Locations: Tempe (AZ) (and 4 others)
Online degree:
Why we like them: ASU offers an online master's degree in homeland security to tackle risks and enhance community resilience. The program includes 11 classes over 7.5 weeks, totaling 33 credit hours, with five concentrations: Biosecurity and Threat Management, Community Resilience, Cybersecurity Policy and Management, Emergency Management, or Homeland Security. This interdisciplinary curriculum blends public policy, geography, social work, and criminal justice aspects. An applied capstone project provides practical experience, while the PLuS alliance offers international learning opportunities.
- Online Enrollment: 11,615 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $15,540
- Location: Indianapolis (IN)
Online degree:
Why we like them: Purdue offers a master's degree in homeland security online, comprising 55 quarter credits across 11 core courses. The program, accredited by the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress, focuses on real-world applications with courses like Crisis and Emergency Management Fundamentals and Risk Assessment Methods. It is designed for online learners and provides valuable networking opportunities with professionals nationwide. Graduates gain an understanding of security management in both public and private sectors, equipping them for various career paths.
- Online Enrollment: 9,462 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $8,190
- Location: Charles Town (WV)
Online degree:
Why we like them: APUS hosts an online master's in homeland security, requiring 36 credits for completion. It covers Homeland Defense, Intelligence, Terrorism, and Critical Infrastructure Protection, focusing on Disaster Management and the balance between security and civil liberties. Students gain insights from faculty with real-world expertise and connect with peers in homeland security roles. The program features concentrations in Business Administration, Criminal Justice, and Cybersecurity, with courses delivered over 8 to 16 weeks, starting monthly, providing flexibility for busy professionals.
- Online Enrollment: 8,800 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $37,125
- Location: Washington D.C.
Online degree:
Why we like them: GW offers a master's in homeland security online that's specifically designed for working professionals and can be completed in 16 months. This 36-credit program provides a comprehensive approach to counter-terrorism, intelligence analysis, and emerging security threats. Key courses include Political Violence and Terrorism, Intelligence and Strategic Analysis, and Emergency Management. The program emphasizes leadership development and interagency cooperation. Students can choose from fully online or hybrid formats, with optional face-to-face sessions in Arlington, VA.
- Online Enrollment: 8,698 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $11,862
- Location: Adelphi (MD)
Online degree:
Why we like them: UMGC offers an online master’s in management with a Homeland Security Management concentration, requiring 36 credits with the option to transfer up to 12. The program will equip you with skills to protect critical infrastructure against threats like terrorism and cybercrime. Core courses include Cybersecurity, Risk Assessments, Disaster Recovery Strategies, and specialized classes in Critical Infrastructures, Biosecurity, and Cyberlaw. An accelerated pathway is available for graduates of UMGC's undergraduate homeland security program, culminating in a capstone project emphasizing the practical application of your skills.
- Online Enrollment: 6,793 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $15,912
- Location: La Jolla (CA)
Online degree:
Why we like them: NU has nearly 7,000 online students enrolled at the graduate level alone. The Master of Science in Homeland Security and Emergency Management offers an interdisciplinary approach, encompassing the fields of homeland security, terrorism, and emergency management. The program is structured over 12 courses and 54 quarter units, preparing you for leadership roles in combating both natural and man-made disasters globally. Innovations within the curriculum include 4-week courses and year-round enrollment, enabling you to progress quickly.
- Online Enrollment: 5,059 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: 2 years, and the tuition per credit, which is ."> $15,174
- Location: Fort Lauderdale (FL)
Online degree:
Why we like them: NSU's Master of Science in National Security Affairs and International Relations requires 36 credits, comprising 21 core and 15 elective credits. We also like that it offers a concentration in Cybersecurity that focuses on issues like cyber conflict and threat assessment. Courses are available online or in a hybrid format at the Fort Lauderdale/Davie campus, with enrollment options in fall, summer, or winter terms. The curriculum equips students with practical skills in Intelligence Analysis and International Relations, preparing them for diverse roles in national security and how to navigate global security challenges.
- Online Enrollment: 5,033 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $12,510
- Location: Virginia Beach (VA)
Online degree:
Why we like them: RU Online offers a national security master's degree online, with a Homeland Security specialization that's designed to equip you with strategic skills to identify and mitigate threats. The program includes 36–38 credits and features courses such as International Relations & Cyber Politics, Critical Infrastructure Protection & Resilience, and Cybersecurity Policy & Affairs. With guidance from expert faculty and a global alum network, this program combines theoretical knowledge with real-world application, preparing you for impactful roles in various organizations.
- Online Enrollment: 4,618 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $6,282
- Location: Orange Beach (AL)
Online degree:
Why we like them: CSU offers an online master's degree in homeland security, requiring 36 credit hours with the option to transfer up to 24 credits. The curriculum integrates essential management disciplines, including Crisis Communication, Strategic Management, and Information Systems, equipping students with vital skills for the evolving field of homeland security. CSU’s strong online enrollment reflects its commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education tailored for distance learners.
- Online Enrollment: 3,484 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $17,721
- Location: New Castle (DE)
Online degree:
Why we like them: Wilmington offers an online masters in homeland security that features concentrations in Applied Homeland Security Intelligence, Emergency Management, Military Leadership, Safety, and Security. It also provides flexibility with classes starting every eight weeks. The curriculum, led by industry practitioners, focuses on risk management, public safety, and information security, culminating in a capstone project involving a field practicum or research. Consisting of 11 courses totaling 33 credits, students can complete the degree in just one year.
- Online Enrollment: 3,344 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $6,375
- Location: Pensacola (FL)
Online degree:
Why we like them: UWF offers a master's in cybersecurity with a National Security concentration that's designed to boost students toward advanced roles in the field. The 30-credit curriculum, which can be completed in two years, includes three other concentrations as well, including Data Security, Security Management, or Software/System Security. Students gain real-world experience through the UWF Cyber Range and engage in a capstone project focused on current cybersecurity issues. This hands-on experience prepares students for various roles, including security analyst and cybersecurity manager.
- Online Enrollment: 3,262 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $26,933
- Location: Boston (MA)
Online degree:
Why we like them: NU's Master of Science in Security and Resilience Studies is practical and flexible. This 32-semester-hour program focuses on core topics like Data Resilience, Cyber Defense, and Counterterrorism, ensuring students gain the practical skills needed for the field. The course includes themes such as Counterterrorism and Conflict Studies, Cybersecurity Policy, and Resilient Cities, culminating in a capstone project. Its emphasis on experiential learning and its co-curricular component guarantees that students gain real-world experience, preparing them for future careers.
- Online Enrollment: 3,214 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $16,221
- Location: Tampa (FL)
Online degree:
Why we like them: USF's Master of Public Health - Global Disaster Management, Humanitarian Relief, & Homeland Security is a unique program for professionals tackling public health emergencies like bioterrorism and natural disasters. Comprising 42 credit hours, it blends core public health courses with specialized disaster management and humanitarian relief training. Students engage in experiential learning through internships with organizations like FEMA and local health departments, gaining practical skills for their future careers. It's ideal for those pursuing careers in emergency management, health departments, and international organizations.
- Online Enrollment: 3,001 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $11,900
- Locations: Tucson (AZ) (and 1 other)
Online degree:
Why we like them: The University of Arizona is ranked 17th, with 3,001 students enrolled online. The school's quality is further evidenced by a recommendation rate of 97% and an overall review rating of 4.05 out of 5. These figures indicate strong satisfaction and positive student experiences, reinforcing the university's commitment to delivering quality education online. The Master of Arts in International Security Studies at UA Online requires 34 credits and covers the international system's features from past to present, with a focus on interdisciplinary and cross-regional approaches.
- Online Enrollment: 2,943 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $12,432
- Location: Bellevue (NE)
Online degree:
Why we like them: Bellevue offers an online Master of Science in Intelligence and Security Studies, comprising 36 credit hours, with 27 focused on core requirements. The program emphasizes real-world intelligence analysis and strategic geopolitical concepts, preparing students for global security challenges. With no GRE or GMAT requirements, students can earn specialized graduate certificates in Intelligence and Security Strategy and Strategic Deterrence. Delivered by seasoned professionals, this accredited program provides the flexibility needed for advancing in the field.
- Online Enrollment: 2,200 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $13,536
- Location: St. Louis (MO)
Online degree:
Why we like them: Webster offers a Master of Arts in National Security Studies designed for working professionals, typically completed part-time in 2 to 3 years. The program aims to develop critical thinkers who effectively address national security threats. Students engage with a curriculum that covers key actors, methods, and decision-making processes, with specialization tracks in International and Regional Security, Cybersecurity, and Criminal Justice. The program also promotes experiential learning through capstone projects or theses, making it a dynamic choice for those advancing their careers in this vital field.
- Online Enrollment: 1,618 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $26,109
- Location: Huntsville (TX)
Online degree:
Why we like them: SHSU's Master of Science in Homeland Security Studies is flexible for newcomers and experienced professionals. With a 97% recommendation rate and strong alumni engagement, the program ensures a supportive remote learning experience. Students benefit from a curriculum led by nationally recognized faculty, focusing on the expertise needed for today’s dynamic job market. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, SHSU guarantees educational excellence without distinctions between online and traditional degrees, making it an appealing choice for distance learners.
- Online Enrollment: 1,471 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $40,000
- Location: Washington D.C.
Online degree:
Why we like them: AU offers a Master of Science in Counter-Terrorism and Homeland Security, designed to equip students with national security, law, and policy skills. This program features a curriculum focused on developing strategic security solutions while addressing global terrorism trends. Spanning 24 months, it includes an onsite residency in Washington, D.C., with site visits to U.S. government agencies. Students benefit from merit scholarships of up to $18,000, ensuring a supportive learning environment taught by leading scholars preparing graduates for competitive roles in government agencies.
- Online Enrollment: 1,369 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $64,746
- Location: New Orleans (LA)
Online degree:
Why we like them: TU offers a Master of Professional Studies in Homeland Security Studies for those seeking practical security and emergency management skills. With flexibility and a dedicated faculty of industry professionals, students explore topics such as Terrorism and Intelligence. You can create individualized study plans, transfer up to nine credits, and benefit from a stackable certificate program that enhances career opportunities in this vital field. We also like that the school features a low student-faculty ratio of 8:1 and a high graduation rate of 87%, which is in the top 4% of schools on a national scale.
- Online Enrollment: 1,286 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $28,294
- Location: Richmond (VA)
Online degree:
Why we like them: VCU offers an online Master of Arts in Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness through the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs. This 36-credit hour program is fully online, providing flexibility for working professionals. The curriculum includes Risk and Vulnerability Analysis, Strategic Planning, Cybersecurity, and Intelligence Operations, equipping students for roles in both public and private sectors. Leveraging VCU's proximity to the nation's capital, the program connects students with homeland security practitioners, emphasizing theoretical knowledge and practical skills for future success.
- Online Enrollment: 1,180 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $14,789
- Location: Jersey City (NJ)
Online degree:
Why we like them: NJCU Master of Science in National Security Studies is a program for security professionals. It offers national security, corporate security, and cybersecurity/information assurance specializations, with a dual specialization option. NJCU's program is not just any; it is recognized as a National Center for Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense and an Intelligence Community Center for Academic Excellence. With a cohort model, students can complete the degree in as little as two years, enjoying the flexibility of full-time or part-time enrollment and rolling admissions for added convenience.
- Online Enrollment: 1,164 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $11,561
- Location: San Angelo (TX)
Online degree:
Why we like them: Angelo State offers a Master of Science in Homeland Security that addresses critical security issues on regional, national, and global levels. The program offers the opportunity to earn an Emergency Management Certificate. It benefits from partnerships with key agencies like the National Security Agency, providing students practical insights and networking opportunities. This degree prepares graduates for advanced careers in law enforcement, emergency management, and security sectors.
- Online Enrollment: 1,085 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $12,636
- Location: Towson (MD)
Online degree:
Why we like them: Towson's Master of Science in Integrated Homeland Security Management is designed to accommodate the needs of working professionals. The program requires 36 credits and is flexible online or hybrid, ideal for those with busy schedules. Students can choose Health Preparedness, Information Assurance, and Security Policy specializations. The core curriculum includes a Graduate Certificate in Security Assessment and Management and a capstone research project. We also like that the school provides networking opportunities through the Order of the Sword & Shield National Honor Society.
- Online Enrollment: 890 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: 2 years, and the tuition per credit, which is ."> $12,150
- Location: Trenton (NJ)
Online degree:
Why we like them: TESU offers a Master of Science in Homeland Security, requiring 36 credits designed for professionals in the security field. This program is not just about theory, it's about enhancing careers or facilitating transitions into policy and leadership roles by providing practical skills. Students can choose from concentrations like Counterterrorism, Cybersecurity, or Emergency Management, each with a master’s degree and a relevant graduate certificate. The Cybersecurity track offers a Graduate Certificate in Counterterrorism that can further strengthen your credentials in this evolving field.
- Online Enrollment: 859 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: 2 years, and the tuition per credit, which is ."> $7,125
- Location: Natchitoches (LA)
Online degree:
Why we like them: NSU offers a master's degree in homeland security online to address today's critical security challenges. This program emphasizes the National Security Strategy and the Homeland Security Act of 2002, promoting an in-depth understanding of Homeland Security leadership, policy, and ethics. Students develop solutions to current security threats through critical thinking and practical application. NSU also provides additional options, such as a focus on Adult Education with a concentration in Homeland Security, enhancing educational pathways for those seeking to advance their role.
- Online Enrollment: 849 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $13,350
- Location: New York (NY)
Online degree:
Why we like them: Pace offers a fully online Master of Arts in Homeland Security program through Dyson College of Arts and Sciences. Students can specialize in Cyber, Emergency Management, or Open Study tracks, catering to various career goals. With a curriculum approved by the Center for Homeland Defense and Security, participants benefit from access to specialized resources, including a digital library. The program emphasizes leadership and management skills, connecting students with experienced faculty to prepare them for impactful roles in homeland security and disaster response.
- Online Enrollment: 772 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $15,660
- Location: Beverly (MA)
Online degree:
Why we like them: Endicott offers a Master of Science in Homeland Security Studies, requiring 36 credits. The program covers essential topics such as Intelligence, Terrorism Studies, Emergency Management, and Cybersecurity, preparing professionals for leadership roles across various sectors. With a focus on collaborative learning and practical application, students benefit from expert faculty with experience with agencies like the FBI, DHS, and FEMA. The program supports flexible schedules, emphasizing personal advising and networking opportunities to enhance the educational experience and career prospects.
What Is a Homeland Security Degree?
A Homeland Security degree enables students to pursue careers that facilitate national security, defense, and emergency preparedness. Some common courses of study include counteracting climate change, anti-terrorism, cybersecurity, emergency management, and more.
A master’s degree in Homeland Security typically takes one to three years. Students must have completed a bachelor’s degree in order to qualify, and some programs may have minimum GPA requirements and graduate-level college entrance exam requirements, like the GRE.
A Homeland Security degree enables students to pursue careers that facilitate national security, defense, and emergency preparedness.
At the graduate level, students typically study a subject in greater depth than the Homeland Security and emergency management classes offered at the undergraduate level. Students pursuing a Master of Science in Homeland Security may be able to develop advanced skills when it comes to assessing and preventing threats — both digitally and in person, including threats posed by natural disasters as well as other humans.
Can You Get a Homeland Security Degree Online?
A variety of higher education institutions offer online Homeland Security degrees at the master's level or related degrees. To complete an online graduate degree in homeland security, students need to complete around 30 credit hours’ worth of classes. They may also need to complete a master’s thesis or final examination. Some Homeland Security master's degrees supplement the online learning experience with in-person internships and applied studies, which allow students to gain real-world experience.
Still undecided? Check out similar online degrees at the graduate level: cybersecurity master's degrees, emergency management master's degrees, or criminal justice master's degrees.
Common Courses for a Homeland Security Major
Courses in Homeland Security are designed to prepare students to deal with real-world problems: national disasters, terrorism, climate change, cybersecurity threats, and more. Some courses are designed to offer an international perspective on security, while others focus on problems specific to the United States.
Below are some of the core courses for graduate students studying Homeland Security:
Introduction to Homeland Security
This foundational course is often one of the first courses that students must take. Introduction to Homeland Security introduces students to current topics within the field, allowing students the opportunity to develop the skills necessary to analyze and understand national security problems and strategies, as well as the historical context of the discipline within the United States.
Critical Infrastructure Protection
Critical infrastructure is one of the core components of homeland security. In Critical Infrastructure Protection, students learn about the infrastructure of the United States, how it functions, and how to assess, analyze, and give policy recommendations for specific infrastructure sectors.
Integrated Emergency Management
Integrated Emergency Management focuses on developing skills to minimize the impact of emergency events, like natural disasters and terrorist attacks. Students will become familiar with the tools and technologies to assess and predict risk as well as prepare for and recover from emergencies. They will also learn skills that allow them to better operate during high-stress emergency situations, including crisis decision-making, communications, resource allocation, and more.
Hazards Governance
Hazards Governance explores the relationship between hazards; administrative management; and local, state, and national policies. Students learn how policies can help mitigate the effects of hazards and promote resiliency in the short and long term. Faculty also focus on developing students' skills when it comes to assessing and advocating for risk-reduction policies.
International Human Rights
The study of international human rights is an important part of a degree in homeland security. Students who take a course in International Human Rights will learn how an individual’s rights are protected under international law and how to behave in accordance with international agreements surrounding human rights.
Information Security Management
Students who take courses in Information Security Management will cover topics including security technology, risk identification and assessment, security policy and planning, security auditing, and more. They may also explore concepts in operating system security, network security, legal and ethical issues, and more.
Homeland Security Concentrations
Concentrations allow students to pursue studies in a specific area within the larger field of homeland security. Some common concentrations for a graduate degree in Homeland Security include cybersecurity, emergency management, public safety, and counterterrorism.
Cybersecurity
Students who choose a concentration in cybersecurity will focus on issues including information security, computer forensics, cyberattacks, and more. Some common courses within this specialization include Computer and Internet Forensics as well as Information Security Management. Students who choose this track, or pursue a cybersecurity degree, may go on to pursue careers as security analysts, incident responders, and security engineers.
Emergency Management
A concentration in emergency management allows students to gain the skills they need to identify, analyze, and respond to disasters and other emergencies. Students who pursue an emergency management degree or concentration will gain exposure to a range of topics, including emergency preparedness, the role of public, private, and nonprofit organizations in responding to emergencies, community resilience, and more.
Public Safety
Students pursuing a public safety concentration will study community relations, management strategies, emergency planning, public finance, and more. They will work to gain the necessary skills that allow them to interface with the public and government agencies while preparing for and responding to hazards.
Counterterrorism
Many Homeland Security graduate degree programs offer courses or a concentration in counterterrorism. Students in a counterterrorism concentration gain exposure to topics including counterterrorism tactics and strategies, threat assessment, biosecurity, crisis negotiation, conflict resolution, and more.
What Can You Do With a Homeland Security Degree?
Homeland security is a competitive but growing field. As the world continues to grow more interconnected and new challenges emerge, experts in homeland security will be in demand across a variety of different industries, both when it comes to protecting the U.S. from threats of terrorism as well as responding to natural disasters and climate change.
Students with a graduate degree in homeland security will have the advanced education and experience necessary to pursue specialized careers in this field.
Homeland Security Careers
Emergency Management Director
plan and direct responses to emergencies, including natural disasters, wars, and both technological or man-made disasters. They also coordinate and oversee response efforts during disasters or emergencies, developing plans to mitigate risks and ensure effective disaster response and recovery. Since you can get this position with a bachelor's degree, we also want to note that the top 10%, who often have master's degrees, earn close to around $147,870.
Information Security Analyst
protect institutions and organizations from cybersecurity threats. They utilize their expertise to monitor, analyze, and implement security measures to protect sensitive data and mitigate potential risks. According to the BLS, jobs in this profession are expected to grow significantly faster than the national average. There will be about 16,800 job openings on an annual basis through 2032.
FBI Special Agent
To qualify for a role as an , professionals must either have (1) a minimum of years of full-time work experience in the field of security or (2) at least one year of experience and a graduate degree. According to the , FBI special agents leverage their expertise to proactively combat threats, enforce the law, safeguard civil liberties, and shield the innocent. Daily responsibilities may involve conducting surveillance, monitoring cyber activities of potential threats, providing courtroom testimony, and engaging in public outreach.
Detectives and Criminal Investigators
earn the most among all "police and detective" jobs listed in the BLS, with the highest 10% in this field earning around $109,580, as of May 2022. Professionals in this role are largely responsible for conducting investigations, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and analyzing information to solve crimes. They work to uncover details, build cases, apprehend suspects, and assist in bringing them to justice within the legal system.
Is a Master's Degree in Homeland Security Worth It?
For many students, a master’s degree in Homeland Security can help them pursue careers that allow them to protect their country against potential disasters. Depending on which area students choose to pursue, working in Homeland Security can also be a potentially lucrative occupation — especially armed with a master's degree. That said, there are some drawbacks to working in this field, including a fast-paced and sometimes stressful atmosphere and potential conflicts between your own personal values and those of your employer.
It's important to consider all the pros and cons about whether a master's is worth it:
Potential Advantages
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A meaningful career protecting people: By gaining advanced knowledge and skills in homeland security, graduates can actively contribute to enhancing national security efforts, protecting communities, and ensuring the safety and resilience of the country against various threats and emergencies.
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Preparation for leadership in the field: A master's in Homeland Security equips individuals with advanced knowledge, specialized skills, and a comprehensive understanding of security threats, emergency management, counterterrorism strategies, and risk assessment, enhancing career opportunities and preparedness for leadership roles within the field of national security and emergency response.
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Critical thinking and decision-making: A master's program in this field cultivates strong soft skills, enabling graduates to analyze complex security threats, develop effective strategies, and make informed decisions in high-pressure situations.
Potential Drawbacks
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Stressful situations: Because careers in Homeland Security are overwhelmingly involved in preparing, preventing, and dealing with the aftermath of disasters, careers in this field can potentially put employees in stressful situations. Workers may have to think on their feet and stay cool under pressure.
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Potential conflicts with employers: Depending on which area of Homeland Security workers pursue a career in, they may face potential conflicts with employers. For example, some workers may not agree with actions undertaken by Border Patrol or Immigration Services.
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May require additional clearances: Some employees in the field of homeland security may need to pass or background checks in order to qualify for employment. This may be especially true if they pursue a career in the government, police, or armed forces.
Bottom Line
For many, a career in Homeland Security is engaging, meaningful, and full of worthwhile challenges. While careers in this field can sometimes be stressful and demanding, they are also typically well-paying and growing steadily. Working in this field can give people the opportunity to protect their country, other individuals, and communities from threats and prepare for a more resilient future.
Getting a Homeland Security master’s degree online is one way to jump-start your career in this field and delve deeper into subjects that interest you. Some students may even be able to pursue scholarships offered by employers to further their higher education goals.
Student Reviews of Online Homeland Security Programs
I had an excellent experience at Columbia Southern University. The flexible schedule worked well for me with my full-time job and family life balance. As with any school whether in person or online, you get what you put into it. Excellent school and very affordable. Most professors gave excellent feedback and the projects reenforced the course goals. It took me about two years to complete my Master of Science Degree in Homeland Security/ Emergency Services Management. I had a great experience here... Read More
Review Date: 6/16/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The programs are great. The military financial department is difficult and continuously locked me out even after I waived my tuition assistance. The instructors are amazing and I was able to communicate changes in my military Status. Very supportive
Review Date: 3/8/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
+Overall very satisfied with instructors and flexibility - Very DISSATISFIED with Diploma which indicates a single degree, and DOES NOT indicate TWO degrees or even a DUAL degree. - Tried to remedy the situation through phone calls and emails to APUS...after 6 months, still no response. - I continue to receive high volume of sales spam from APUS and affiliated businesses. RECOMMENDATION: Find an honest program. I cannot recommend a school that markets DUAL degrees, charges for two degrees, and only... Read More
Review Date: 12/2/2021
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
This institution is very well adapted to those who are both former military or students coming straight from high school. The instructors are very aware of the diversity that their classes contain in this matter and embrace with both sides on the best way to collaborate and the results is some very great discussions and enhanced learning experiences that even are not always obtainable in the traditional brick and mortar institutions. The aspect of continuous involvement and required interaction reinforces... Read More
Review Date: 3/13/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I just completed my MSHLS/EDM and I felt the program at TUI overall worked very well for me and my full time job. The program was definitely writing intensive, having a Case Assignment and a Session Long Project due every 2 weeks. Coming from a person who is more of a test taker, rather than a paper writer, I felt this program greatly improved my writing and researching skills. From my personal experience, the instructors and staff were very professional and helpful and I never had any issues throughout... Read More
Review Date: 4/20/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I have loved Northeastern University from the start. The application was free and my advisor was in constant contact with me. She even informed me of my acceptance before I received a letter. All the staff I have communicated with have been exceptional. The quality of education is second to none in my field. They work hard to provide co-op and internship opportunities so by the time you finish you not only have an education but also a little experience.
Review Date: 3/4/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
George Washington University's College of Professional Studies is simply outstanding. I am pursuing my Master's in Homeland Security there. I got to choose from Johns Hopkins, Georgetown, Arizona State, and George Washington. The deciding factor was the faculty. The professionalism and sheer caliber of the professors of GW's Homeland Security program are unparalleled. I am learning from people who have decades of experience in the highest echelons of the US government. Not only are the professors... Read More
Review Date: 12/18/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The classes are completed online. There are no classes to attend. The classes are 8 weeks in length. Each week is a unit. Where you are expected to do readings, assignments and class discussions in a forum. Some classes, like summer classes, are 7 weeks in length. You have a lot of writing. there are 4 core law classes. Most of the stuff I learned in college prep classes in High School. Then 5 classes in your concentration. I have anti-terrorism for my classes. You can pursue criminal justice also.... Read More
Review Date: 3/30/2017
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I am pursuing a Master of Arts in Emergency Management and Homeland Security as I feel it best complements my military experience. Upon completion, I plan on applying with local and state agencies in the hopes of working in their respective Emergency Operations Center and to ultimately reach the position of director.
Review Date: 2/11/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Working full time, having a work / family life balance and throw in a graduate degree. That’s a tall order for anyone. Imagine being deployed on a front line or as a disaster responder added to this. Trident answers the call when it comes to these challenges. With staff and professors supporting you and students like yourself, failure is not an option. Some reviews may show negative remarks. While most are likely undergrad, it reflects the individuals initiative to succeed. No one I have ever spoken... Read More
Review Date: 9/9/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Great school, very affordable, good faculty members. They do change the portal so you hv to be make sure you are on par with the plan. If the most Senior Enlisted in the Army is good enough, good enough for me. If I do decide to get my PhD, I would go back to this school.
Review Date: 3/19/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Conducted a lot of research for my Master's degree and CSU seemed to have it all. Great structure in the online classes and just the right balance of reading and assignments. Would definitely recommend this to any working adult pursuing their degree. I started this year 2015 and have had no financial issues or enrollment concerns.
Review Date: 8/25/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
An outstanding college with all access at your finger tips - literally.... 100% online. Degree helped me get a top notch job and I am so excited that I chose Trident University. The program was exactly what I thought while the professors were knowledgeable and staff was personable which helped me get through both the hard and easy times. I recommend this school to anyone.
Review Date: 6/11/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
As a veteran, I wanted to continue to serve my country and Wilmington University offered me that chance to develop my career in the field of Homeland Security. Throughout this degree program, I found myself challenged to tackle important issues both foreign and domestic and studied under the guidance of accomplished professionals from diverse fields and experiences. I am confident upon receipt of my diploma, I will have greatly enhanced my career in service to my country.
Review Date: 9/14/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Very reasonable cost. All content was brought to light with professionals who had worked in that field and did not teach specificity because they were teachers. Small classes allowed for a more personalized approach to ensure students concerns and questions were truely being answered. Not once did I feel like just a number.
Review Date: 6/27/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Penn State is a great school. I have so many great memories and have met some great people. The alumni programs are awesome, the mentorship and job assistance provided is absolutely fabulous. I would recommend PSU to anyone. I am proud to have attended PSU.
Review Date: 9/22/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey is a very international institution with a variety of specific programs. My program, Nonproliferation and Terrorism Studies, was a two year degree. Although stronger on nonproliferation, the program was very well organized. Each professor was willing to help every student in any way possible. Their expertise was not limited to academic, but also real-world experience.
Review Date: 12/24/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No