In today’s rapidly changing world, the demand for skilled professionals in homeland security has never been higher. As threats to national and international security evolve, the need for well-trained experts who can respond to and mitigate these challenges is critical.
Online homeland security programs provide a flexible and accessible way for individuals to pursue a career in this vital field. This guide highlights ten top online homeland security schools that offer comprehensive education and training to prepare students for various roles within the industry.
From managing cybersecurity threats to coordinating disaster response efforts, these programs equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to protect and serve communities effectively.
Online Homeland Security Schools
1. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide
Location: Daytona Beach, FL
Program Length: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, established in 1925 and based in Daytona Beach, Florida, offers a comprehensive online bachelor’s degree in homeland security.
The curriculum includes foundational courses in information security, intelligence studies, and two capstone courses that enable students to work with real clients to solve practical problems. Students can tailor their education with two minors or a minor and a focused 15-credit block of courses.
Additionally, ambitious students can begin master’s-level courses while completing their bachelor’s, potentially earning both degrees in five years.
Program Snapshot
Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security
Tuition: $250 per credit (active-duty military); $447 per credit (civilian)
Credit Requirements: 123 credits
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
GPA Requirement: 2.5 minimum
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Retention Rate: 64%
Acceptance Rate: 70%
Percent Online Enrollment: 98%
2. DeSales University
Location: Center Valley, PA
Program Length: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus
DeSales University, a Catholic institution in Center Valley, Pennsylvania, offers a fully online bachelor’s degree in homeland security. Courses cover topics such as homeland security, critical infrastructure protection, digital forensics, and cybercrime.
Students can transfer up to 75 credits and may earn credits through prior learning assessments. A senior seminar is required to complete the degree, and students can start graduate-level coursework during their undergraduate studies, enabling them to complete both degrees in five years.
Program Snapshot
Program Name: Accelerated Bachelor of Arts in Homeland Security
Tuition: $523 per credit
Credit Requirements: 120 credits
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Retention Rate: 78%
Acceptance Rate: 77%
Percent Online Enrollment: 45%
3. Mercer University
Location: Macon, GA
Program Length: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus
Mercer University, founded in 1833 and located in Macon, Georgia, provides an online bachelor’s degree in homeland security and emergency management.
Graduates can pursue careers as air marshals, border patrol agents, and emergency management planners. The program includes courses in ethics and public safety, intelligence gathering, and the societal impact of disasters.
Two field mastery courses offer hands-on experience in real-world settings. Students can choose from five start dates throughout the year, with courses lasting eight weeks.
Program Snapshot
Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security and Emergency Management
Tuition: $485 per credit
Credit Requirements: 120 credits
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
GPA Requirement: 2.25 minimum
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Retention Rate: 86%
Acceptance Rate: 74%
Percent Online Enrollment: 34%
4. Marian University
Location: Fond Du Lac, WI
Program Length: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus
Marian University, located in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, offers an online bachelor’s degree in homeland security. Courses cover topics such as homeland security, terrorism, and disaster perspectives.
The program includes field experience opportunities and a capstone project. Courses last seven weeks each, and students typically enroll in one course per term.
The curriculum aligns with the Department of Homeland Security’s guidelines. Transfer credits are available for military or related work experience.
Program Snapshot
Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security
Tuition: $470 per credit
Credit Requirements: 120 credits
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
GPA Requirement: 2.0 minimum
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Retention Rate: 65%
Acceptance Rate: 76%
Percent Online Enrollment: 34%
5. Angelo State University
Location: San Angelo, TX
Program Length: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus
Angelo State University in San Angelo, Texas, offers an online bachelor of security studies in border and homeland security. The curriculum includes courses on cybersecurity, wildlife crimes, and communications infrastructure.
The 120-credit program also addresses contemporary security issues, immigration, and trafficking. An additional online bachelor of border security program is available for students with an associate degree or active-duty status.
Program Snapshot
Program Name: Bachelor of Security Studies in Border and Homeland Security
Tuition: $2,758 per semester (in-state); $8,893 per semester (out-of-state)
Credit Requirements: 120 credits
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Retention Rate: 73%
Acceptance Rate: 79%
Percent Online Enrollment: 49%
6. Keiser University
Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL
Program Length: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus
Keiser University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, provides an online bachelor’s degree in homeland security. The program covers management-level skills necessary for homeland security careers at various government levels.
Courses include introduction to homeland security, constitutional law, terrorism response, disaster issues, and infrastructure protection. Students learn management principles, emergency planning, and threat analysis.
Program Snapshot
Program Name: Bachelor of Arts in Homeland Security
Tuition: $9,504 per semester
Credit Requirements: 120 credits
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Retention Rate: 68%
Acceptance Rate: 97%
Percent Online Enrollment: 50%
7. Campbell University
Location: Buies Creek, NC
Program Length: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus
Campbell University in Buies Creek, North Carolina, offers an online bachelor’s degree in homeland security. The program emphasizes intelligence, border and transportation security, counterterrorism, and emergency response.
Courses include cybersecurity, terrorism, and infrastructure protection. Students complete 124 credits and gain expertise in intelligence and emergency preparedness. Military service members can transfer up to 12 credits.
Program Snapshot
Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security
Tuition: $250 per credit (military); $450 per credit (non-military)
Credit Requirements: 124 credits
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
GPA Requirement: 2.0 minimum
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Retention Rate: 75%
Acceptance Rate: 89%
Percent Online Enrollment: 27%
8. SUNY College of Technology at Canton
Location: Canton, NY
Program Length: 4 years
Format: Online + Campus
SUNY Canton offers an online bachelor of technology in homeland security. The program prepares students to respond to natural disasters and terrorism, with career opportunities in various federal departments.
Courses include homeland security fundamentals, security threats, and emerging issues. Students can complete a field experience course in criminal justice as part of the 122-credit program.
Program Snapshot
Program Name: Bachelor of Technology in Homeland Security
Tuition: $295 per credit (in-state); $353 per credit (out-of-state)
Credit Requirements: 122 credits
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
GPA Requirement: 2.5 minimum
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Retention Rate: 69%
Acceptance Rate: 95%
Percent Online Enrollment: 82%
9. Excelsior College
Location: Albany, NY
Program Length: 4 years
Format: Online
Excelsior College in Albany, New York, offers an online bachelor’s degree in homeland security and emergency management. The program features flexible scheduling and covers natural disaster response, terrorism, and other emergencies.
Courses include emergency management, national security analysis, and a capstone project. Students can transfer up to 113 credits, with the typical student transferring about 70 credits.
Program Snapshot
Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security
Tuition: $510 per credit
Credit Requirements: 120 credits
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
10. National University
Location: San Diego, CA
Program Length: 4 years
Format: Online
National University in La Jolla, California, offers an online bachelor’s degree in homeland security and emergency management. Each class lasts four weeks, allowing students to focus on one course at a time.
The curriculum includes courses on security management, crisis management, and network defense. Students must complete a senior project addressing a modern security issue. Applications are accepted year-round.
Program Snapshot
Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security and Emergency Management
Tuition: $370 per quarter credit
Credit Requirements: 180 quarter credits
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
GPA Requirement: 2.0 minimum
Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
Retention Rate: 64%
Acceptance Rate: 55%
Percent Online Enrollment: 80%
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What career opportunities are available with a degree in homeland security?
A degree in homeland security opens doors to various career paths in both the public and private sectors. Graduates can pursue roles such as emergency management directors, intelligence analysts, cybersecurity specialists, border patrol agents, and disaster response coordinators. Additionally, there are opportunities in federal agencies like the Department of Homeland Security, FBI, CIA, and local law enforcement.
2. Are online homeland security programs as credible as on-campus programs?
Yes, online homeland security programs are just as credible as their on-campus counterparts, provided they are accredited by recognized accrediting bodies. Accreditation ensures that the program meets rigorous academic and professional standards, providing students with a high-quality education that is respected by employers and other educational institutions.
3. What should I consider when choosing an online homeland security program?
When choosing an online homeland security program, consider factors such as accreditation, curriculum, faculty expertise, flexibility, cost, and available resources for online students. It’s also important to look at the program’s retention and graduation rates, as well as the success of its alumni in the job market. Ensuring the program aligns with your career goals and offers support services such as career counseling and internship opportunities is crucial.
Conclusion
Choosing the right online homeland security program is a significant step towards a rewarding career in a field that plays a crucial role in maintaining national safety and security.
The programs highlighted in this guide represent some of the best options available, each offering unique strengths and opportunities for students. Whether you are looking to advance your current career or transition into a new one, these programs provide the flexibility and comprehensive education needed to succeed.
By carefully considering your options and selecting a program that aligns with your goals, you can embark on a path to making a meaningful impact in the field of homeland security.