Bachelor's Degree in Homeland Security
Homeland security professionals protect the country from internal and external threats. They identify and address situations such as domestic terrorism and foreign cyberattacks. Homeland security specialists can work in many fields, such as emergency management, cybersecurity, and aviation security.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), emergency management directors earn a median salary of $76,250 per year. The BLS projects employment for these professionals to increase 4% from 2019-2029, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Earning a bachelor's degree in homeland security can lead to opportunities in this complex and challenging field.
This guide explores courses common to bachelor's in homeland security programs. The following sections also cover salary potential and professional certification opportunities for graduates.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Homeland Security
What can you do with a degree in homeland security?
Individuals with a bachelor's degree in homeland security often pursue careers in emergency management, national defense, and information security. Many graduates secure positions with the Department of Homeland Security.
How long does it take to get a degree in homeland security?
Degree completion time varies by program. However, full-time students typically earn their bachelor's degree in about four years. Part-time students may need six years or more.
How much does a homeland security agent make?
According to April 2021 PayScale data, federal special agents employed by the Department of Homeland Security earn an average annual salary of $115,295.
Why Get a Degree in Homeland Security?
Students earning a bachelor's in homeland security gain broad knowledge in security, threat assessment, risk management, and emergency management. Degree-seekers develop the skills necessary to identify, mitigate, and address terrorist threats and other national security issues.
Graduates can pursue various careers with national defense agencies, such as the Department of Homeland Security. A bachelor's degree often qualifies holders for increased professional responsibility and earning potential.
Learners can pursue a homeland security degree online to save on higher education expenses. Many online degree-seekers also maintain full-time employment, earning an income while completing their studies.
How Much Does a Homeland Security Degree Cost?
The overall cost of earning a bachelor's in homeland security degree varies based on factors including type of school, program format, and the student's enrollment status. Most public schools offer lower tuition rates than private colleges. Additionally, online students may pay lower tuition rates than on-campus learners. Students can also take advantage of accelerated enrollment options to graduate sooner and save money on tuition.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average annual cost of tuition, fees, and housing for undergraduate students during the 2019-2020 academic year was $21,035 at public colleges and $48,965 at private schools. However, online students do not generally pay for room and board, reducing the overall cost of earning a degree. Distance learning may also eliminate transportation and relocation costs.
Additional Online Student Fees for Homeland Security
Online students often pay lower tuition rates, but they may also need to cover additional fees and expenses associated with distance learning. Many schools charge technology fees for online courses, which typically help fund online resources and technical support. Online students may also need to attend on-campus seminars or events, incurring costs associated with travel and lodging.
Online learners must also cover many of the same costs as on-campus students. Distance students need to purchase textbooks and other learning materials for class. However, digital textbooks often cost less than physical textbooks. Online students may also need to pay graduation and administrative fees, even if they never visit campus physically.
How Much Do Homeland Security Majors Make?
Professionals with a bachelor's in homeland security often pursue careers related to national defense, information security, and emergency management. Salary potential varies based on industry, educational level, and professional experience. Homeland security professionals can often increase their career and salary prospects by earning additional certifications or a graduate degree.
A professional's industry can significantly impact their salary potential. For example, emergency management directors in the professional, scientific, and technical services industry earn an annual median salary of $106,570, while those who work at colleges and universities earn a median salary of $88,370 per year.
Homeland security graduates can also work as information security analysts, who earn an annual median salary of $103,590. After gaining significant professional experience, security analysts may secure upper-level management positions with higher salaries. For example, computer and information systems managers earn a median salary of $151,150 per year.
Courses in Homeland Security
Students earning a bachelor's in homeland security gain knowledge in areas including public safety, emergency management, and national defense. Degree-seekers explore strategies for identifying, mitigating, and managing homeland security threats. Although curricula vary by program, courses commonly explore topics including terrorism and information security.
Bachelor's programs in homeland security often culminate with an action research project, a thesis, or a capstone. While completing their final project, learners explore a contemporary homeland security issue.
While specific course offerings and titles vary by school, the following list highlights three courses common to bachelor's in homeland security programs.
Introduction to Homeland Security
Most programs in the field include an introductory course, which outlines guiding principles and practices of homeland security. Students examine the roles of various national defense and security agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security. Coursework also explores the intelligence community, regulatory frameworks for security agencies, and crisis preparedness and response strategies.Combating Terrorism
Homeland security professionals work to identify, prevent, and respond to terrorist activity in the United States and abroad. This course highlights the history, ideologies, and goals of terrorism, along with contemporory strategies to prevent terrorist acts. Students may also examine various types of terrorism, including domestic, transnational, and state-supported terrorism.Fundamentals of Emergency Management
The emergency management field focuses on methods and protocols for addressing disasters such as terrorist attacks. This course highlights the historical background of emergency management and covers relevant laws and policies. Students explore the major stages of the emergency management cycle, including preparation, mitigation, response, and recovery.
How To Become an Information Security Analyst
After earning a homeland security degree online, many graduates pursue careers as information security analysts. These professionals devise and implement security measures for computer systems at important organizations, such as government agencies. Information security positions typically require at least a bachelor's degree in computer science or information assurance. Many bachelor's in homeland security programs offer concentration options in cybersecurity.
Generally, information security analyst positions also require professional experience in information security or a closely related field. Homeland security students often gain experience through an internship. Candidates for some roles may need professional certifications, such as the certified information systems security professional credential.
Certifications and Licensure for Homeland Security
Homeland security specialists can demonstrate advanced skills and experience by obtaining professional certifications in their field. These certifications may qualify holders for advanced roles with more responsibilities and higher salaries. The following list highlights three popular homeland security and emergency management certifications.
The Global Center for Public Safety offers four levels of professional certification, based on the candidate's level of experience and education. Applicants for the highest certification level need at least four years of industry experience and either an associate or a bachelor's degree.
The International Association of Emergency Managers offers this entry-level certification for candidates who have completed at least 100 hours of emergency management training in the past 10 years. Applicants must submit an essay and three references, and they take a 100-question certification exam.
This advanced certification from the International Association of Emergency Managers requires at least three years of professional emergency management experience. Candidates must have participated in at least two functional exercises or actual emergency situations. Applicants with a bachelor's degree in emergency management need less professional experience.
Online Bachelor's in Homeland Security
#1 Online Homeland Security Degrees
Eastern Kentucky University
- Richmond, KY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Eastern Kentucky University's academic offerings include high-quality online undergraduate and graduate programs. Located in Richmond, the public institution also delivers on-campus programs. Enrollees in the online homeland security program benefit from flexible scheduling options.
The bachelor of science in homeland security program takes place in a virtual classroom environment. Online students can consult with professors virtually. While completing core coursework, degree-seekers in the homeland security program gain transferable skills they can apply to a variety of professional roles. After completing the online bachelor's program, graduates often pursue entry-level homeland security careers to gain experience and qualify for advanced roles.
For exact application deadlines and requirements, prospective applicants can speak with an admissions advisor.
Eastern Kentucky University Facts:
Total Bachelor's Programs: 89
Online Bachelor's Programs: 17
Per-Credit Tuition: $474
Learners Awarded Financial Aid: 98%
Percentage of Learners Awarded Student Loans: 50%
Grants Transfer Credits: No
Percent Online Enrollment
44%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Online Homeland Security Degrees
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
- Daytona Beach, FL
- 4 years
- Online
Students can attend classes at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University's campus in Daytona Beach, Florida. Learners enrolled in the institution's bachelor's programs can study online or in person. Degree-seekers can choose from the school's 42 program options, all of which are available online. The online bachelor's degree in homeland security from the institution provides a foundation for homeland security careers.
The school confers the homeland security degree to individuals who complete all requirements, including earning at least 120 credits. The curriculum includes general education courses, core classes within the major, and electives. Faculty mentors work with learners to ensure the curriculum aligns with their professional goals. Gaining professional experience during internships can benefit graduates applying for positions in their field.
Enrollees with financial need can apply for federal aid, including grants and loans. At the school, 49% of undergraduates fund their education through financial aid. Prospective students can contact the institution for specific application details.
Percent Online Enrollment
93%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Online Homeland Security Degrees
Mercer University
- Macon, GA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Macon, Georgia, Mercer University delivers 130 programs. The private institution's offerings include on-campus and online academic bachelor's programs. Students who intend to work in homeland security can pursue the school's online degree in the field.
Online enrollees in the bachelor's in homeland security and emergency management program benefit from scheduling flexibility. While completing general education coursework, students develop transferable critical thinking and analytical skills. The curriculum blends classroom learning and hands-on experiences to prepare degree-seekers to succeed in the field. Undergraduates consult with faculty mentors and academic advisors to select classes aligning with their interests and career goals.
Learners at the institution access affordable tuition rates and institutional funding, which can reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Students can explore funding options with the help of the school's financial aid counselors.
Mercer University at a Glance:
Number of Online Students: 2,233
Acceptance Rate: 74%
Total Bachelor's Programs: 74
Online Bachelor's Programs: 5
Transfer Credits Permitted: No
Percent Online Enrollment
26%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Online Homeland Security Degrees
Angelo State University
- San Angelo, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students can pursue 82 programs from Angelo State University, located in San Angelo, Texas. The public institution's offerings include on-campus and online academic bachelor's programs. Among the school's online options is a homeland security degree for students planning to pursue careers in the field.
The flexible bachelor of security studies in border and homeland security delivers scheduling options for online enrollees. General education requirements help students develop widely applicable skills, such as critical thinking abilities. Degree-seekers also take elective classes and upper-division courses to develop in-demand skills. Undergraduates can receive academic and professional guidance from faculty mentors.
Learners pursuing online undergraduate programs benefit from the institution's affordable tuition rates. Financial aid counselors help students understand funding options and reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
Angelo State University Numbers:
Number of Online Students: 4,333
Undergraduate Admission Rate: 77%
Total Bachelor's Programs: 40
Online Bachelor's Programs: 4
Permits Transfer Credits: No
Percent Online Enrollment
41%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Online Homeland Security Degrees
Marian University
- Fond Du Lac, WI
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Degree-seekers at private Marian University can attend classes in person or online. The school delivers 25 online programs, with 72 total programs available. The institution's online offerings include a flexible bachelor's in homeland security program for students planning to pursue careers in the field.
During the online homeland security program, distance learners take general education courses along with classes in their major. The curriculum blends classroom learning and hands-on experiences to help degree-seekers gain field-specific knowledge and transferable skills. Majors meet with academic advisors and faculty mentors to discuss their interests and career goals.
At the accredited institution, enrollees who demonstrate financial need can qualify for federal aid, such as the Pell Grant. Prospective students can contact the school for specific application details.
Marian University Facts:
Total Bachelor's Programs: 52
Online Bachelor's Programs: 13
Number of Online Students: 422
Undergraduate Admission Rate: 65%
Graduation Rate: 56%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent Online Enrollment
25%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#6 Online Homeland Security Degrees
SUNY Canton
- Canton, NY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Distance learners can pursue an online bachelor's degree in homeland security from SUNY Canton to prepare for homeland security careers. Degree-seekers can enroll in the school's academic programs on campus in New York State. Students can choose from the school's 55 program options, with 18 programs available online.
With various scheduling options, the homeland security program provides flexibility for online learners. Busy students balancing work and school can benefit from the online program's customizable nature. During the online program, learners participate in virtual classroom discussions with peers. Undergraduate degree-seekers usually earn their bachelor's in four years of full-time study.
Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates. Degree-seekers at the accredited institution qualify for federal financial aid programs, such as the Pell Grant. Financial aid counseling can help students reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
Out-of-state
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
64%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#7 Online Homeland Security Degrees
Campbell University
- Buies Creek, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A private institution, Campbell University offers in-person programs on its Buies Creek campus. Students in any part of the country can enroll in the school's 28 online programs. Individuals who aspire to careers in homeland security can pursue the institution's online bachelor's degree homeland security to qualify for positions in the field.
While completing core coursework, degree-seekers in the homeland security program gain transferable skills they can apply to a variety of professional roles. Undergraduates gain specialized skills while completing upper-division coursework. Degree-seekers typically require four years to earn the 120 credits required for the bachelor's degree.
Learners in the school's online programs can access support services such as tutoring and career counseling. Enrollees at the accredited institution can qualify for federal grants and loans.
Campbell University Fast Facts:
Rate of Acceptance: 78%
Total Programs: 114
Total Bachelor's Programs: 79
Online Bachelor's Programs: 13
Transfer Credits Counted: No
Percent Online Enrollment
15%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Online Homeland Security Degrees
DeSales University
- Center Valley, PA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Online students can enroll in the accelerated bachelor's program in homeland security from DeSales University. Working professionals who enroll in the online homeland security program can complete academic requirements around their schedule.
DeSales University is a private institution delivering academic programs from its campus in Center Valley. The school offers 46 online programs, allowing students to pursue their degree without relocating. The institution also delivers 11 online bachelor's programs, which provide scheduling flexibility for busy degree-seekers.
While enrolled in the homeland security bachelor's program, undergraduate learners complete core courses, general education requirements, and upper-division classes. Degree-seekers earn at least 120 undergraduate credits to graduate with the bachelor's degree. The program features rigorous coursework fostering specialized and transferable homeland security skills.
Learners can benefit from the school's support services, which include academic and professional resources. Undergraduates and alumni can explore their professional options with the help of faculty advisors and career counselors. The school's dedicated financial aid counselors work with students as they locate and apply for educational funding.
Percent Online Enrollment
36%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#9 Online Homeland Security Degrees
Keiser University
- Fort Lauderdale, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Online learners can enroll in the convenient BA in homeland security program from Keiser University to gain advanced knowledge in homeland security. The online program features flexible scheduling options that benefit working professionals. Bachelor's degree holders can apply for entry-level homeland security careers immediately after graduation.
The homeland security curriculum features specialized classes in the field and foundational core coursework. The curriculum comprises major classes, general education courses, and electives. General education classes strengthen skills such as critical thinking. Learners can receive career and curriculum advice from faculty mentors.
In addition to on-campus options in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, students at the private institution can pursue 65 programs in an online format. Degree-seekers can enroll in any of the school's 24 online bachelor's programs. Students pursuing online bachelor's programs pay an average per-credit tuition rate of $296 and complete approximately 120 credits to earn their degree. The institution holds accreditation, which means students with financial need can qualify for federal grants and loans.
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
47%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Online Homeland Security Degrees
Saint Leo University
- Saint Leo, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Saint Leo University educated distance degree-seekers through accessible, high-quality online undergraduate programs. The private institution is based in Florida and offers online and on-campus programs. Enrollees pursuing the online homeland security degree benefit from scheduling flexibility.
The institution delivers homeland security program coursework in a virtual classroom environment, using the latest technology. Online classes feature virtual discussions and opportunities to consult with faculty members. The homeland security program features foundational and advanced courses in the major. After completing the online bachelor's program, graduates often pursue entry-level homeland security careers to gain experience and qualify for advanced roles.
Admissions advisors provide prospective applicants with details about application deadlines and requirements.
Saint Leo University at a Glance:
Total Bachelor's Programs: 46
Online Bachelor's Programs: 22
Percentage of Learners Awarded Financial Aid: 100%
Percentage of Students Awarded Loans: 50%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent Online Enrollment
72%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
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