Homeland Security Degree Worth It?


An online homeland security degree is worth it to earn a higher salary and advance your career in security. In 2001, the US government created the Department of Homeland Security. The field of Homeland Security has exploded since then. But, is an online Homeland Security degree worth it? Yes, it’s one of the best professions for those interested in criminal justice and focusing on terrorism and disaster relief.

Today, DHS is one of the largest federal agencies with more than 185,000 employees; the private sector has seen some growth as well. Do you want to learn more about how to make your online Homeland Security degree worth it, in terms of time, money, and energy? Keep reading.

What Can You Do With a Homeland Security Degree?

So, what can you do with a Homeland Security degree? Professionals in Homeland Security protect the United States from dangers ranging from terrorist attacks to cyber terrorism and crime to hurricanes by anticipating problems and preparing plans to mitigate them. What about Homeland Security’s salary? Data from the Bureau of Labour and Statistics (BLS) shows that a career in Homeland Security can be lucrative. The average Homeland Security jobs salary is $70,500.

DHS is always on the lookout for talented and committed professionals. So, students who earn a Homeland Security degree can pursue employment with private companies or the federal, state, and local government. Homeland Security bachelor’s degree programs help students to develop the problem-solving, management, and also critical thinking skills they need in this unpredictable field. So, what about Homeland Security job requirements?

Homeland Security Education and Certification Requirements

After completing your online Homeland Security bachelor’s degree program, you’ll need various certifications to improve your chances of securing employment. Certifications in Homeland Security demonstrate proficiency and also knowledge in one’s profession. One of the most respected certifying bodies for Homeland Security is the American Board for Certification in Homeland Security which offers the following certification programs:

  • National Threat Analyst
  • Disaster Preparedness
  • Certified in Homeland Security
  • Anti-Sabotage Certified

The National Domestic Preparedness Coalition in partnership with National Sheriffs’ Association also offers certification programs in Homeland Security. These are the Certified Homeland Protection Associate (CHPA) and Certified Homeland Protection Professional (CHPP) programs. Certification through industry organizations such as the American Board for Certification in Homeland Security and the National Domestic Preparedness Coalition is geared towards denoting current knowledge.

Is a Homeland Security Degree Worth It?

What can you do with a Homeland Security degree? If that question is still ringing in your mind, you’ll be happy to know that there are numerous career opportunities in the Homeland Security industry. Homeland Security’s salary varies depending on the profession. According to the BLS, detectives and police officers have a median annual wage of $66,020 as of May 2021. However, those who prepare for and respond to disasters and civil emergencies earn around $72,760 as emergency management directors.

With a bachelor’s degree in Homeland Security, you can work for local law enforcement agencies, the federal government, as well as private companies and non-profit organizations. As you can see, a degree in Homeland Security offers a high ROI. Furthermore, online Homeland Security bachelor’s degree programs prepare the students for entry-level government jobs. When added to previous education and combined with relevant work experience, an online Homeland Security degree is valuable.

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