Best Online Master’s in Homeland Security Programs
Updated October 10, 2023
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A master's degree in homeland security gives students the knowledge and skills they need to work in areas like cybersecurity, emergency management and preparedness, border control, and law enforcement.
Professionals in these areas enjoy strong job prospects. For example, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects jobs for police officers and detectives to grow 5% between 2018 and 2028. These professionals earned median annual salaries of $63,380 in 2018, with the top 10% of earners making more than $100,000 during the same period.
Featured Online Schools
Best Online Master's in Homeland Security Programs
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Best Online Master’s in Homeland Security Programs
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus
University Park, PA - 4 years
- Online
Graduate students seeking an online homeland security degree can enroll in the master of professional studies in homeland security at Pennsylvania State University-World Campus, located in University Park. The program helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can also help graduates pursue new careers.
The curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. Applicants without a homeland security background may need to complete prerequisites.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their local area. Graduate students also participate in networking events to expand their professional connections.
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 76%
Total Online Master's Programs: 52
Program Name: Master of professional studies in homeland security
Graduate Tuition In State: $21,682
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $21,682
#2 Best Online Master’s in Homeland Security Programs
Angelo State University
San Angelo, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online master's in homeland security, offered by Angelo State University from its San Angelo, Texas, campus, ranks as a top degree. The program builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing learners for leadership positions with increased salary potential. With a master's degree, graduates can advance their current career or pursue new careers.
The curriculum explores advanced methodologies and research in homeland security. Learners prepare for focused careers by choosing electives and concentrations. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in homeland security or a related field.
Online enrollees gain real-world experience through local internships. These and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.
Angelo State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 77%
Total Online Master's Programs: 13
Program Name: Master's in homeland security
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,059
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,655
#3 Best Online Master’s in Homeland Security Programs
Towson University
Towson, MD - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Towson University, located in Towson, Maryland, offers a flexible online master's in integrated homeland security management. The program builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing enrollees for leadership positions with increased salary potential. With a master's degree, graduates can advance their current career or move into new careers.
The curriculum explores homeland security research and methodologies. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in homeland security or a related field.
Online enrollees gain hands-on experience during professional internships in their local area. Internships and other networking events help graduate students expand their professional network.
Towson University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 76%
Total Online Master's Programs: 5
Program Name: Master's in integrated homeland security management
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,902
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,344
#4 Best Online Master’s in Homeland Security Programs
Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Huntsville, Texas, Sam Houston State University offers an online master of science in homeland security studies. Enrollees prepare for advanced roles in the field during the rigorous program. Earning a master's degree can also help degree-seekers pursue new careers.
The curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. The master's program recommends a background in homeland security or a related field when applying.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
Sam Houston State University at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 83%
Total Online Master's Programs: 27
Program Name: Master of science in homeland security studies
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,765
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,361
#5 Best Online Master’s in Homeland Security Programs
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Natchitoches, LA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Natchitoches, Northwestern State University of Louisiana enrolls students in its top-ranked online master of science in homeland security. The program strengthens specialized skills, preparing enrollees for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. With a master's degree, graduates can also pursue new careers.
The curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to homeland security. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. The program recommends that applicants bring a background in homeland security or a related field.
Online enrollees work with the program to find local internships. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
Northwestern State University of Louisiana at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, 4-year or above
Admission Rate: 82%
Total Online Master's Programs: 17
Program Name: Master of science in homeland security
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,738
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,526
Online Master's in Homeland Security Programs Ranking Guidelines
We selected the following degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Choosing an Online Master's in Homeland Security Program
Prospective students should weigh several factors when searching for the best online master's in homeland security program. The following list outlines several important considerations for students.
- Program Cost: Typically, public schools cost less than private schools, and in-state learners pay less than out-of-state learners. However, some programs allow all online students to pay the same tuition rate regardless of residency.
- Transfer Policies: Many schools offer transfer credit for prior academic work, professional experience, and military training, which can save students time and money on a degree.
- School Size and Type: A school's size and type can impact a student's learning experience. For example, small private schools may cost more, but they also offer more individualized attention than a larger public school.
- Program Length: Most online master's in homeland security programs take two years of full-time study to complete, but some programs also offer accelerated timelines.
- On-Campus Requirements: Some online programs have on-campus requirements, which students should ensure they can meet before committing to a program.
- Thesis, Fellowship, and Work Requirements: Many programs have thesis or internship requirements. Students should ensure their chosen programs have requirements that are aligned with their career goals.
What Is Homeland Security?
Homeland security explores the practices, procedures, and theories designed to protect the country from various threats. Master's in homeland security programs cover topics like U.S. foreign policy and national security, intelligence collection and analysis, and interagency cooperation. Some programs allow students to specialize their degrees through concentrations in areas such as counterterrorism, information security, public health preparedness, and biosecurity.
Homeland security explores the practices, procedures, and theories designed to protect the country from various threats.
Successful homeland security professionals have a strong desire to uphold the Constitution. They are detail-oriented problem-solvers who enjoy seeing projects through to completion. These professionals can assume a variety of roles. For instance, they may run security for a large corporation, develop emergency preparedness protocols for metro governments, or consult with the federal government on domestic and international terrorism threats.
The overarching goal for any homeland security professional should be to protect American citizens and their rights.
What Is a Master's in Homeland Security Degree?
Online master's in homeland security degrees examine national security threats and challenges, including physical threats, natural disasters, cybersecurity problems, and bioterrorism. Learners gain knowledge and skills in areas like biosecurity, public health preparedness, information security, and counterterrorism. Students who pursue this degree typically hold a bachelor's degree and have some related professional experience.
What Else Can I Expect From an Online Master's in Homeland Security Program?
The following sections cover common master's in homeland security coursework and concentrations in addition to relevant homeland security certifications.
Online Master's in Homeland Security Curriculum
Fundamentals of Homeland Security
This foundational course introduces learners to homeland security theories and methodologies. Students learn how emerging policy solutions can help address 21st-century security needs. The course typically includes a mix of individual and group assignments.
Information Systems Protection
Designed for learners who want to focus their efforts on cybersecurity, this course addresses common challenges around keeping networks and cloud-based systems secure from infiltration. Students learn to identify vulnerabilities, address threats, and implement security countermeasures.
Management for Security Professionals
This course covers topics like strategic planning and intelligence techniques, anti-terrorism and emergency preparedness, the National Incident Management System, and threat and vulnerability assessments.
Homeland Security Concentrations
Homeland Security Policy
This concentration appeals to students seeking careers in local, state, and federal governments. Courses explore topics like justice and public policy, national security policy, intelligence analysis and criminological theory, and terrorism and counterterrorism in practice.
Cybersecurity
This concentration gives students the advanced knowledge and skills needed to protect and secure sensitive data. Classes often cover topics like cryptology and communication security, mobile and ubiquitous computing, and software security engineering.
Emergency Management
Emergency management concentrations focus on creating systems and protocols that help communities and governments effectively respond to natural and manmade disasters. Courses may include budgeting for emergencies and disasters, humanitarian crisis management, project management during emergency situations, and risk perception awareness.
Port Security
Designed for students who want to focus on securing a nation's ports from domestic and international threats, this concentration includes classes on aviation security, disposing of hazardous materials, and multifunctional management of port security measures.
Homeland Security Certifications and Licenses
Homeland security credentials demonstrate specialized expertise to current and prospective employers. The following list outlines common homeland security credentials.
- Certified Homeland Protection Professional: The Global Society of Homeland Security Professionals provides this credential for public safety professionals who have at least four years of experience and an associate or bachelor's degree.
- Certified Homeland Protection Associate: This credential offers four different levels to meet the needs of various homeland security professionals. Requirements for the credential vary by level, but each level requires relevant training and an examination.
- Associate Emergency Manager: Emergency management professionals can pursue this credential to demonstrate expertise in the field. Candidates need at least 100 hours of emergency management training and must pass a 100-question exam.
- Certified Emergency Manager: This credential requires more education and training than the lower-level associate emergency manager credential. Candidates need at least three years of relevant experience and a bachelor's in emergency management.
What Can You Do With a Master's in Homeland Security Degree?
An online master's in homeland security prepares graduates for a variety of roles in areas like law enforcement, emergency preparedness, and national security. The following sections outline common jobs and potential salaries for graduates, the importance of attending an accredited school, and professional organizations for homeland security students and graduates.
Homeland Security Jobs
Master's in homeland security programs prepare graduates for leadership roles in areas like counterterrorism, information systems, and emergency preparedness. We outline several common jobs for graduates below.
Police Officers and Detectives
Police officers and detectives work to enforce local laws and monitor communities. They routinely make traffic stops, patrol neighborhoods, and arrest suspects. Detectives investigate crimes, which involves following leads, interviewing witnesses, and collecting evidence.
These professionals need at least a high school diploma, but some departments may require a college degree. Police officers must also complete specialized training at a police academy.
Information Security Analyst
Information security analysts help organizations develop secure networks and systems. They implement new security software and hardware, identify security breaches, teach employees how to maintain secure documentation, and stay up-to-date on industry trends.
These professionals typically need at least a bachelor's degree in computer science or information security, though some employers prefer candidates with a master's degree.
Emergency Management Director
Emergency management directors develop protocols and procedures to address natural or manmade disasters as they occur, including acts of terrorism. They may develop training programs, coordinate resource sharing, implement response plans, and apply for funding.
These professionals need a bachelor's degree at minimum. Some states require emergency management directors to have certification.
Accreditation for Online Master's in Homeland Security Programs
When researching prospective online master's in homeland security programs, students should look for a school's accreditation status. Accreditation indicates that a school meets high standards with respect to faculty qualifications, academic rigor, and student learning outcomes. Schools may receive regional or national accreditation, with regional accreditation generally considered the more prestigious of the two.
Accreditation benefits students in several ways. Only students at accredited schools qualify for federal financial aid, and many schools only accept degrees and credits from accredited institutions. Additionally, many employers prefer to hire candidates with accredited degrees.
Programs within a school may also receive accreditation. For example, the National Centers for Excellence— sponsored by the National Security Agency — awards Center of Academic Excellence designations for qualifying cybersecurity programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is a Master's in Homeland Security?
A master's in homeland security is an advanced degree that examines national security protocols, procedures, practices, and theories.
What Jobs Can I Get With a Degree in Homeland Security?
Graduates with a master's degree in homeland security can pursue leadership roles in areas like criminal justice, anti-terrorism, and emergency preparedness.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Degree in Homeland Security?
Full-time students can typically complete an online master's in homeland security in two years.
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