Are Online Homeland Security Degrees Legitimate?

Pursuing a degree in homeland security through distance learning can lead to lucrative career opportunities in emergency management and intelligence analysis, with jobs offering six-figure salaries.

Online homeland security degrees are legitimate and respected by many, and several accredited institutions offer reputable programs to advance your academics.

Explore how employers view online degrees, the advantages of distance learning, and featured programs offering higher education in homeland security. Also, keep in mind many affordable online homeland security degrees are available.

Do Employers Respect Online Homeland Security Degrees?

Yes, online homeland security degrees are generally respected by employers, as there is little difference between them and in-person programs. In most cases, distance learning degrees follow the same curriculum and are taught by the same professors as those on campus. Students must ensure that they are pursuing an online degree from an accredited institution to gain the respect of their employers.

What To Look For in an Online Homeland Security Degree Program

Some important factors for students to look for when enrolling in an online homeland security degree program include the institution's accreditation status and reputation to ensure it meets certain standards. Their graduation rates and whether the school is nonprofit or for-profit also impact the degree program's quality, as described below.

Accreditation

Accreditation assures students that the institution delivers a high-quality education that meets standards set by recognized agencies. Individuals must be sure the online homeland security degree program they enroll in is accredited to be respected by employers or transfer credits to another school.

Reputation

The reputation of the school significantly impacts the quality of its homeland security degree program, and students need one that is highly regarded. Ranking lists, such as those provided by US News and World Report, can offer valuable insights and analysis on the educational value you can receive.

Nonprofit Vs. For-Profit Degrees

Nonprofit colleges typically have lower tuition fees and provide various degrees that prioritize their students' success. In comparison, for-profit colleges usually offer career-focused programs that can be completed quickly and generate profits.

Graduation Rates

A school's graduation rates matter and can depict how valuable an education you will get when pursuing its online homeland security degree program. The higher the rate, the better to guarantee you earn legitimate instruction.

Differences Between Online Homeland Security Degrees and Traditional Homeland Security Degrees

The main difference between online and traditional homeland security degrees is the format in which they are offered. Distance education delivers the flexibility and convenience of finishing coursework at your own pace and around your schedule, while traditional programs require in-person attendance and set class times.

Getting a degree online may also mean less face-to-face interaction with classmates and professors, while on-campus programs provide potential for in-person networking.

Benefits of Earning Your Homeland Security Degree at an Online School

The most significant benefit of earning your degree in homeland security at an online school is its flexibility and convenience. Many adult learners are working professionals with busy schedules, and distance education is ideal for getting a college degree. Online learning also allows students to expand their horizons and earn a degree from a school across the nation.

Featured Online Homeland Security Degree Programs

Listed below are respected online homeland security degree programs available from accredited institutions.

1. University of Maryland Global Campus

The University of Maryland Global Campus provides a range of homeland security degrees through distance education to accelerate careers in the field. It is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) and is known for being the nation's largest online public institution.

The following online homeland security degrees are offered:

• Homeland Security - BS
• Homeland Security Management - MS Information Technology
• Homeland Security Management - MS Management

2. Eastern Kentucky University

Eastern Kentucky University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). It delivers a Bachelor of Science in homeland security through flexible online learning focusing on:

• disaster management
• intelligence studies
• security operations

Recognized consistently by US News & World Report as one of the nation's best colleges, it offers in-demand degrees taught by world-class instructors.

3. Columbia Southern University

Columbia Southern University, located in Alabama, is SACSCOC-accredited and recognized for delivering high-quality and affordable education. It offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees in homeland security, which consist of rigorous academic programs that provide comprehensive knowledge of the field.

The following online homeland security degrees are offered:

• Homeland Security - BS
• Homeland Security - MS (three concentrations available)

4. Wichita State University

Wichita State University in Kansas is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Its Bachelor of Science in homeland security is available through 100% online learning, with instruction provided by distinguished faculty. This program gives students a broad education in the field that prepares them for lucrative careers in the security industry.

Their online bachelor's degree in homeland security offers these specializations:

• emergency management
• terrorism studies
• cybersecurity

5. The University of Arizona

The University of Arizona offers a Bachelor of Arts in homeland security and emergency management through distance learning, backed by accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). Coursework covers emergency planning and response protocols, preparing individuals for jobs as security management specialists and intelligence analysts. This reputable institution provides student-focused education and consistently earns recognition for its exceptional academics and value.

6. Thomas Edison State University

Thomas Edison State University in New Jersey is accredited by MSCHE and widely recognized for its educational integrity. This comprehensive institution offers a wide range of academic programs to cater to the diverse interests and career aspirations of students, including its homeland security degrees accessible through distance education.

The following online homeland security degrees are offered:

• Homeland Security - BS
• Homeland Security - MS

7. Keiser University

Keiser University in Florida is SACSCOC-accredited and offers several options for obtaining a homeland security degree through the convenience of online learning. The university provides career-oriented academics, where students participate in hands-on learning opportunities and benefit from personalized attention in small classes taught by industry professionals.

The following online homeland security degrees are offered:

• Homeland Security - AA
• Homeland Security - BA
• Homeland Security - MA