Is a Homeland Security Degree Right for Me?
A homeland security degree can prepare you for jobs in law enforcement and crisis management. Determine if homeland security is a good choice for your goals.
Interested in a career in public safety? Do you want to gain the skills and knowledge needed to help protect your community, state, or nation from natural and manmade threats? A homeland security degree may be the right choice for you.
Homeland security degrees prepare students to work for an agency within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), as well as in other public and private sectors. Those who obtain this degree work to provide protection from threats, such as terrorism, cybercrimes, and natural disasters.
Keep reading as we take a closer look at this type of degree program.
What Is a Homeland Security Degree?
A homeland security degree focuses on a wide array of safety and security issues. It is a relatively new type of degree as it pertains to the Department of Homeland Security, which was created in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Homeland security programs were established as a result.
Though many homeland security graduates go on to work for the agencies within the DHS, they can work in various settings. They may work for city, county, state, and national government agencies, as well as nonprofit organizations. Grads can also work as security professionals in companies and corporations.
What Does a Homeland Security Major Study?
Students can choose from different types and levels of homeland security degrees. They may opt to obtain an associate degree, bachelor's degree, or master's degree in the subject. It generally takes two years for an associate degree, four years for a bachelor's degree, and about two years for a master's degree, though this can vary depending on the course load.
Coursework will vary depending on the program level and the school offering the program. Regardless of the specific required courses, students typically complete coursework relative to crisis management and prevention and community protection. Common topics may include:
- terrorism and counterterrorism
- local and national security
- intelligence analysis
- cybersecurity
- critical infrastructure
- infrastructure protection
- emergency planning
- security threats
Why You Should Consider a Degree in Homeland Security
There are many good reasons why someone might be considering a homeland security degree. Let's take a look at some of the more common reasons.
Various Career Paths
Homeland security careers range from entry-level positions at companies and nonprofits to highly advanced or specialized careers within the federal government. Homeland security graduates can work anywhere in the world: on land, in the sea, and in the air. Whatever type of work environment you prefer, you'll likely be able to find a job suited for you with a homeland security degree.
Better Job Prospects
Specific homeland security degrees aren't always necessary, but having one can make it easier to find a job in the field. Having a homeland security degree can also qualify you for a wider variety of careers, including more lucrative or desirable positions you may not be able to get without a specialized degree.
Competitive Pay
Not all homeland security careers provide lucrative salaries; some pay significantly more than others, especially for those with years of experience. That said, most jobs in the field provide competitive pay thanks to the skills required and potential risks involved in the work.
Job Security
Many of the fields you can pursue with a homeland security degree are growing steadily. For example, some jobs in the protective services field are increasing at a rate of 3%. In contrast, jobs involving disaster relief are said to be growing 'faster than average' according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Rewarding Career
For those who want to help people or who are protective, a homeland security degree can lead to a rewarding career and high job satisfaction.
Job Opportunities for Homeland Security Degree Majors
As noted earlier, homeland security professionals have various career opportunities available to them. Government agencies that commonly employ these professionals include:
- Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
- Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
- Transportation Security Administration (TSA)
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Those with homeland security degrees can also work in state and local government agencies, private businesses, and nonprofit organizations. Homeland security graduates can work in various positions as recovery specialists, security consultants, crime prevention specialists, business continuity managers, and even federal air marshals. Some other common homeland security careersinclude:
- emergency manager
- intelligence analyst
- special agent
- information security analyst
- cybersecurity analyst
- Secret Service agent
- fraud investigator
- environmental manager
- city planner
- homeland security officer
Homeland Security Degree: Questions To Ask Yourself
Still wondering if a degree in homeland security is right for you? Consider asking yourself the following questions to help you decide.
What Are My Career Goals?
Though a homeland security degree is quite versatile, it may not be the best choice for every career path. For example, if you're hoping to become a nurse or other healthcare professional, pursuing a degree more specific to your career interests might be better.
A homeland security degree can lead to careers in criminal justice, public administration, private business, and many other sectors. If you're interested in a career in one of these fields, then a degree in homeland security can help you get there.
Am I Interested in Public Service?
Homeland security degrees commonly lead to careers in public service. This requires strong communication and interpersonal skills, a teamwork mentality, and the willingness to work with many different people.
If you don't currently have these skills, ask yourself whether you're willing to put in the work to develop them.
Am I Willing to Put It All on the Line?
As with law enforcement and criminal justice careers, homeland security jobs often involve putting yourself in harm's way to protect others. Even if you are not facing active threats daily, your job may include preparing for worst-case scenarios, which can be mentally and emotionally challenging.
Determine whether you're willing to risk your life or face other hazards of the job. Is a career in homeland security still worth it to you? If so, then getting a degree in the field may be the ideal educational pathway for you.