Help Protect Countries with a Degree in Homeland Security
Homeland security works to prevent and protect countries from threats such as pandemics or hurricanes. Homeland security professionals prepare for possible catastrophic events and help minimize damage when they occur.
Students interested in pursuing a career in homeland security can work for state, federal, and local governments. Jobs in this field use technological, scientific, and communication skills and knowledge. Possible careers for associate degree in homeland security graduates include working in emergency management, information security, or law enforcement.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports a $74,590 median annual salary for emergency management directors. The BLS projects 4% job growth for this career in 2019-2029.
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Why Get a Degree in Homeland Security?
Earning an associate degree in homeland security prepares students to respond to national threats. Enrollees learn how to anticipate and prepare for disasters in a way that protects the public. Graduates from homeland security programs often pursue careers in travel security, immigration, or law enforcement.
A homeland security associate degree helps graduates enter entry-level jobs including police officers and border patrol agents. After completing their associate degree in homeland security, learners often pursue bachelor's degrees, helping them enter higher-level positions.
How Much Does a Homeland Security Degree Cost?
Associate degree in homeland security costs depend on variables including location, school, and program type. For example, tuition for a private school may cost more than a public school or community college. Many schools offer reduced tuition to in-state residents. Students who prove their residency often save money by attending a local college.
Students looking to save money may also consider attending an online homeland security program. Online learning offers convenient and flexible scheduling, allowing students to study from home and continue working without any disruption. Degree-seekers can also save both time and money on commute and gas costs.
Some homeland security programs require students to complete in-person training or an internship. The cost of transportation to and from their assigned training location may add to the education expenses. Many online programs require a technology fee in addition to tuition.
Break down your current financial situation, and receive a college tuition estimate you can afford to pay.
How Much Do Homeland Security Majors Make?
Homeland security professionals often find employment with agencies or organizations including the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Many graduates with associate degrees in homeland security qualify for entry-level positions, including police officer, immigration agent, and customs officer. For entry-level positions such as police officer, the BLS reports a $65,170 median annual salary and projects a faster-than-average growth rate of 5% in 2019-2029.
Many associate degree-holders pursue bachelor's degrees in homeland security or a related field, allowing them to gain more knowledge and skills in a specific area. For example, graduates with cybersecurity knowledge can pursue careers in information analysis and protection. The BLS reports information security analysts earning $99,730 median annual salaries and projects the need for those professionals to grow 31% in 2019-2029, much faster than average.
Courses in Homeland Security
Homeland security programs teach students the skills to help nations detect potential threats and work to reduce damage that catastrophes cause. Programs typically require introductory courses in topics such as homeland security, terrorism, and disaster prepardedness. Learners can enroll in elective courses to learn about a specific facet of homeland security. Some electives include criminology, cybersecurity, and emergency management.
The following list presents courses found in many associate in homeland security programs. Not every homeland security associate degree program offers these courses. This list instead contains a sample curriculum for this program.
Disaster Preparedness
This course covers emergency management and disaster response. Students learn the history, theories, and concepts affiliated with emergency services. The class explores programs related to emergency management, including government planning, risk assessment, and preparedness. Looking at an overview of disaster preparedness through the perspective of civil defense and intelligence communities often plays a role in this course as well.Domestic and International Terrorism
Learners examine various perspectives on domestic and international terrorism in this course, including an overview from historical, theoretical, and cultural approaches. The class considers cultural, psychological, religious, and political perspectives on the topic as well. Some courses explore methods of responding to terrorism.Cybersecurity
Degree-seekers interested in the relationship between technology and the criminal justice system can take a cybersecurity course. Participants explore the impact of changing technology on crime and criminal justice practices. Other specific topics include cybercrime, the evolution of technology in relation to crime, and cyber attacks. Students also learn investigation and prevention techniques.
Certifications and Licensure for Homeland Security
Certifications and licenses help demonstrate a professional's experience, knowledge, and skill level in a particular subject. Many homeland security professionals obtain licensure or certification to advance their current career or pursue a specialized career. The following list provides an example of certification and licensure available to graduates with an associate in homeland security.
Professionals looking to advance their career in cybersecurity can obtain a CISSP. The CISSP credential demonstrates the knowledge necessary to manage an effective cybersecurity program. Obtaining this certification offers access to resources, networking opportunities, and education programs. Professionals must pass an exam to qualify for certification.
Professionals pursuing emergency management positions should consider becoming a CEM. Requirements to receive CEM status include emergency management work history and experience. Holding a bachelor's degree in emergency management decreases the number of training hours required.
Homeland security associate degree graduates can enter entry-level jobs in law enforcement. Law enforcement officers require certification specific to each state. Prior to receiving certification, professionals must complete training, an exam, and background checks.
Scholarships for Homeland Security
Many students qualify for various scholarships based on academic and career interests, as well as financial need. Learners seeking an associate degree in homeland security can apply for scholarships to help pay for tuition and additional costs. The following list includes scholarships available for students earning a homeland security associate degree.
Scholarships for Homeland Security
| Scholarship |
Amount |
Who Can Apply |
Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association War Veterans Scholarship |
$2,500 |
AFCEA offers scholarships to active service members and honorably discharged U.S. military veterans. Qualified applicants must demonstrate undergraduate program enrollment and major in an AFCEA-related field, including cybersecurity, intelligence, or telecommunications. |
The Colonel Sully H. De Fontaine Scholarship Award |
$1,200 |
The Association of Former Intelligence Officers offers this scholarship to undergraduate students. Applicants must show interest in pursuing a career in the U.S. intelligence community. Submission requirements include a cover letter. |
CyberCorps Scholarships for Service |
$25,000 |
Students interested in working for the U.S. government in cybersecurity qualify for this scholarship. In return for the scholarship, recipients must work for the government after graduation. |
Online Associate in Homeland Security Programs 2022
#1 Online Associate Degree In Homeland Security
Trident Technical College
- Charleston, SC
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
Situated in Charleston, South Carolina, Trident Technical College educates associate degree-seekers online and on campus. The institution offers affordable and accessible online associate programs, including an associate of applied science in homeland security.
Many students choose online learning for its flexibility. Associate degree-seekers fulfill general education and major requirements. Students can research the institution's website for program information. Online learners work with advisors, IT support professionals, and other support staff at the school. Associate degree-seekers enhance their resume through practical training experiences.
After completing an associate program, graduates can immediately apply learned skills to entry-level positions. To qualify for more advanced positions, associate degree-holders can pursue a bachelor's degree. Students in associate programs at the institution pay affordable per-credit tuition rates. After factoring in financial aid, degree-seekers pay an average of $2,559 to attend the school. The cost-effective two-year homeland security degree program also helps students enter the workforce quickly.
The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, a regional accrediting body.
Out-of-state
Not provided
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
#2 Online Associate Degree In Homeland Security
Georgia Military College
- Milledgeville, GA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Georgia Military College, located in Milledgeville, operates as a public institution. Distance learners can enroll in the associate in homeland security and emergency management, one of the school's 25 online associate programs. Learners can gain admission to the two-year program with a high school or GED diploma. Depending on their prior college experience, incoming students may take placement tests to determine their class selections. The program provides additional information about admission requirements and start dates.
The distance learning format appeals to degree-seekers who require a flexible schedule. The program's asynchronous classes let learners complete coursework at any time, from any place.
Graduates can transfer their credits into a bachelor's program and earn their degree sooner. The school maintains articulation agreements with four-year colleges, which means that graduates can transfer more credits toward a bachelor's degree.
Georgia Military College at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 3,902
Rate of Undergraduate Admission: N/A
Student Graduation Rate: 28%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $6,165
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,165
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
45%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Online Associate Degree In Homeland Security
Campbell University
- Buies Creek, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A private institution in Buies Creek, North Carolina, Campbell University offers on-campus and online degrees. At the institution, degree-seekers select from eight online associate programs, which include an associate of science in homeland security. Applicants need a high school or GED diploma. Depending on their prior college experience, incoming students may take placement tests to determine their class selections. Contact the program for more information on start dates and admission requirements.
The homeland security program offers coursework on a flexible, online schedule. Learners can arrange coursework around their schedule rather than attending in-person classes at a set time.
With an associate degree in homeland security, students enter the workforce or transfer into a bachelor's program. The accredited institution maintains articulation agreements with four-year colleges, making it easier for graduates to apply their credits toward a bachelor's degree.
Campbell University Facts:
Online Enrollment: 948
Percent of Students Accepted: 78%
Percent of Undergrads who Graduate: 55%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $32,380
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $32,380
Percent Online Enrollment
15%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Online Associate Degree In Homeland Security
Keiser University-Ft. Lauderdale
- Fort Lauderdale, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Keiser University-Ft. Lauderdale, a private institution in Florida, offers on-campus and online degrees. A leader in online education, the school offers 13 online associate programs. Prospective students can enroll in the online associate of arts in homeland security program with a high school or GED diploma. The school may require placement tests for some incoming students. Prospective enrollees work with admission advisors to complete the application process.
The homeland security program offers a flexible, online format that helps students stay on schedule to earn their degree. The program's asynchronous classes let learners complete coursework at any time, from any place.
With an associate degree, professionals can pursue homeland security careers or transfer into a bachelor's program. The school maintains articulation agreements with local four-year colleges. This helps students transfer their credits toward a bachelor's degree.
Keiser University-Ft. Lauderdale at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 9,207
Acceptance Rate: Not Known
Undergrad Graduation Rate: 69%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $19,808
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $19,808
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
#5 Online Associate Degree In Homeland Security
Hawaii Pacific University
- Honolulu, HI
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
From its Honolulu campus, Hawaii Pacific University enrolls learners as a private institution. The school offers eight online associate programs, including an associate of science in homeland security. Applicants need a high school or GED diploma. Candidates may need to take a placement test, such as ACCUPLACER, to determine their class selections. Applicants meet with admission advisors to learn more about the enrollment process.
An online associate degree gives students the flexibility to maintain a job while in school. Many programs use a fully asynchronous format, which allows online learners to complete coursework at any time of day.
Graduates can transfer their credits into a bachelor's program and earn their degree in less time. Students interested in a bachelor's degree save money by first completing an associate degree at the accredited institution.
Hawaii Pacific University Fast Facts:
Online Enrollment: 1,627
Percent of Students Admitted: 75%
Undergrad Graduation Rate: 45%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $27,000
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $27,000
Percent Online Enrollment
39%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
Exploring a Degree in Homeland Security?
What can you do with a degree in homeland security?
An associate degree in homeland security can lead to many career paths. Many graduates work in cybersecurity, immigration services, and information analysis for the government.
How long does it take to get a degree in homeland security?
The length of time students take to get a homeland security associate degree depends on the program. Most students complete an associate degree in homeland security in two years.
What do homeland security jobs pay?
Salaries for homeland security jobs vary by job type and level. Police and detectives earn a $65,170 median annual salary while transportation security screeners earn $40,580.
What do you study in homeland security?
Curriculums for homeland security programs vary, but many cover terrorism, cybersecurity, and weapony. Students also learn the laws and ethics of homeland security.
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