Most Affordable Online Master’s in Homeland Security Programs 2021

Homeland security professionals help protect the nation’s infrastructure and citizens from terrorist attacks and natural disasters. A master’s in homeland security qualifies graduates to work in homeland security and related fields, like criminal justice, law enforcement, and emergency management. 

Graduates with a master’s degree in homeland security enjoy strong salary potential and job prospects. For instance, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), information security analysts earn an annual median salary of $99,730. The BLS also projects job growth for information security analysts to grow 31% between 2019-2029, which is considerably higher than the 4% average growth rate for all occupations. 

This guide ranks the most affordable online master’s in homeland security programs. It also covers other important information for prospective students, including common courses and scholarships for homeland security students.

Top 10 Affordable Online Master’s in Homeland Security Programs

Why Get a Degree in Homeland Security?

A master’s in homeland security offers many benefits, several of which we outline below.

Courses in Homeland Security

Master’s in homeland security degrees typically comprise 30-48 credits. Some schools offer a broad interdisciplinary curriculum that includes coursework in criminal justice, law enforcement, terrorism, and homeland security and emergency. Programs may also allow students to specialize in areas such as cybersecurity, emergency management, and intelligence studies.

In addition to technical skills, students develop leadership, analytical, and decision-making skills. Students often culminate the degree with a capstone project or thesis. Courses vary by program, but the following list outlines several courses commonly found in master’s in homeland security programs.

• Contemporary Issues in Homeland Security
• Survey of Terrorism
• Risk Assessment
• Critical Infrastructure Protection
• Cyber Threats and Homeland Security

Contemporary Issues in Homeland Security

This course reviews contemporary homeland security events, issues, and legislation, such as 9/11 and the U.S. Patriot Act. Students learn about the federal and state agencies involved in homeland security, and the efforts they coordinate in safety and security, preparedness, and terrorism response.

Survey of Terrorism

This course covers the strategies and tactics that terroristic organizations and states employ. Learners explore the relationship between terrorism and religion, how terrorists build their networks, and the technologies and tools terrorists use to disseminate information and carry out attacks. Learners also study counterterrorism measures.

Risk Assessment

This course explores risk assessment and planning for terrorist and natural disaster events. Students examine the methodologies that practitioners use to establish, quantify, mitigate, and respond to security risk. They also learn about the roles that governmental agencies play in planning and responding to threats.

Critical Infrastructure Protection

This course examines how homeland security professionals protect critical infrastructure from terrorist threats, natural disasters, and other events. Students explore the strategies and tools used to conduct vulnerability assessments.

Cyber Threats and Homeland Security

This course explores the nature of cyber threats, including digital crimes, hacking, cyber warfare, and digital espionage. Students learn how to assess risk, gather evidence, and perform counterattacks. Students also learn about national policies for securing cyberspace.

Certifications and Licensure for Homeland Security

Homeland security professionals can bolster their career through licenses and certifications. Nongovernmental organizations award certifications, while governmental agencies award licenses. The following list highlights several professional credentials for homeland security professionals.

Scholarships for Homeland Security Students

Homeland security students can take advantage of scholarships to help offset the cost of their degree. Unlike loans, scholarships do not require repayment, making them ideal forms of financial aid. The following list outlines several scholarship opportunities for homeland security students.

Most Affordable Online Master’s in Homeland Security Programs 2021