If you want to become a Homeland Security agent, it all starts with a degree in Homeland Security.
But how do you know this is a wise investment for your career goals?
After all, some programs might not be as good as other training courses.
Find out the benefits of a Homeland Security degree to help you determine if you should pursue this career.
What Are The Benefits of a Homeland Security Degree?
As a graduate with a degree in Homeland Security, you can earn more than $100,000 a year.
You can also access high-profile security assignments for border patrol agents, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the US government.
You might even work for a celebrity or someone in upper-level politics.
Some people are drawn to this type of work, which can be dangerous.
If you are interested in a job in this career field, starting with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Homeland Security can be beneficial.
However, you will have to pay more for additional training, which might be a roadblock for some people.
Homeland Security Training Programs and Schools
There are a lot of online classes and in-person universities that have Homeland Security training.
Along with professional certificates in 100 percent online formats, students can train in Homeland Security and get a degree.
Schools that offer Homeland Security training and programs include:
- George Mason University
- Grand Canyon University
- Saint Leo University
- George Washington University
- Mercer University
- Keiser University
- Michigan State University
- Capella University
Choose the school, learning format, and tuition price that best suits your needs.
You can earn a Homeland Security degree in one to four years, depending on the degree and program.
This is also an option if you want to get a certificate in Homeland Security.
However, a certificate program differs from a degree program in the amount of training and education you receive.
You will have more credentials and get further with a degree in Homeland Security compared to a certificate from a professional program.
In addition, employers, especially the DHS, will expect you to have at least a four-year degree, such as a bachelor’s degree in science in Homeland Security.
This will most likely be the minimum requirement for you to be eligible as a candidate for employment.
What Do You Learn With a Homeland Security Degree?
You can apply for training at the Department of Homeland Security with a Homeland Security degree.
This training will further your career and help you get your foot in the door with the primary employer for someone with your degree–Homeland Security.
Subject areas that you will learn with a Homeland Security degree include:
- Cybersecurity
- Boating and marine safety
- Civil liberties and human rights training
- Law enforcement security
- National infrastructure planning
- Infrastructure security
- School safety
You can work in one of these areas with a degree in Homeland Security and advance your career.
There are many routes for a career to take when you have a Homeland Security degree.
This training is highly advanced and necessary in many fields, such as with schools and law enforcement.
When you have this degree, you will have plenty of job opportunities.
How Long Will It Take to Earn a Homeland Security Degree?
To get a Homeland Security degree, you will need at least two years of school.
A formal degree, including an associate of science in Homeland Security, will take two years minimum.
However, you can apply those credits to a degree program if you already have a college education.
You may be able to complete a Homeland Security degree in a year and a half.
This can save you time and money on getting an education.
If you are going to school for a Bachelor of Science degree in Homeland Security, this will take at least three years but typically four years to complete.
You will gain a general education covering more than just Homeland Security.
However, your geography, political science, chemistry, and English courses will also prepare you to be more competent at your job.
You will be ready to do fieldwork with a wealthy knowledge of the world around you.
In addition, a bachelor’s degree is required to get a master’s degree.
If you want to be a lawyer with a master of law degree and sit for the bar exam, you must start with a degree like a BS in Homeland Security.
What Can You Do With This Degree?
With a Homeland Security degree, you can ideally work for the US Department of Homeland Security.
The DHS is responsible for saving lives and preventing terrorism, including cyberterrorism.
If you want to work in a job or field where you are a community resource, saving innocent lives, consider a Homeland Security degree.
Along with starting a formal education that leads to a career in Homeland Security, you also gain specializations.
You can get employment as a politician, police officer, or community resource officer with a degree in Homeland Security.
Other areas that need more Homeland Security degree-holders include the FBI and the federal government.
Work in Area 51 or for high-profile security projects when you have your Homeland Security degree.
This degree is the baseline for anyone who wants to have a job in law enforcement, security, or the government.
You could also supplement your existing training by adding a degree in Homeland Security.
Along with training provided by the DHS, you can build up your career and become a security professional.
What is Homeland Security and Should I Work In This Field?
Homeland Security is the department of the US Government involved with national security.
This is the federal government’s division responsible for protecting US citizens and our borders.
When you earn a degree in Homeland Security, the primary job position you will want is with the DHS, which is the Department of Homeland Security.
The security sector of the Federal Bureau of Investigation is another place where you can seek employment with this degree.
Is It Worth It to Get a Homeland Security Degree?
Yes, it is worth it to get a degree in Homeland Security.
You can work for many areas of interest and science, including forensics, law enforcement, and with the FBI.
You can apply for jobs with the Homeland Security agencies that need your help in fighting terrorism and in determining security risks.
If you have the compassion and qualifications to work with the US Homeland Security, you should consider this job for your subsequent occupation.
With a degree in Homeland Security, you are a prime candidate for a job with this US federal agency.
I think it is worth it especially if you love what you do as a homeland security agent. Plus, the salary is quite great!
This was very informative! Do you have any success stories of individuals who have significantly benefited from a Homeland Security degree? Hearing real-life examples can be very motivating.
Given the rapid advancements in technology, how do you see the role of cybersecurity in Homeland Security evolving? Should students focus on tech skills alongside their degree?