Homeland Security Careers

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is made up of several divisions or components. Each of these components is critical to maintaining security and safety in their respective areas. The components of the DHS are: Directorate for National Protection and Programs, Directorate for Science and Technology, Directorate for Management, Office of Policy, Office of Health Affairs, The Office of Intelligence and Analysis, Office of Operations Coordination, Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, Domestic Nuclear Detection Office, Transportation Security Administration (TSA), United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP), United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), United States Coast Guard, Federal Emergency Management (FEMA), and the United States Secret Service. State and local law enforcement also coordinate with the DHS to develop strategies to deter acts of terrorism and protect the citizens of the United States from acts of terror. These organizations also act in the event of natural disasters and other states of emergency. Given the numerous organizations, there are a variety of career opportunities for those wanting to work in the field of homeland security.

The agencies operating under the umbrella of the Department of Homeland Security usually require employees to hold a bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Most any degree will be relevant based on the many components of the DHS, but if there is a certain area of interest, make sure to research the education, experience and related requirements for that position.

Click Here to request information from Everest University Online's Homeland Security Degree Programs.

Homeland Security Employment

Homeland Security employment is projected to maintain a strong growth pattern based on the current level of threat the United States is facing and will continue to face going forward. Typical Homeland Security related jobs for graduates with a Homeland Security Degree, Criminal Justice Degree or related degree include, Law Enforcement, FBI, ATF, Secret Service, DEA, ICE, Border Patrol, and Homeland Security Officer with the Department of Homeland Security. Many corporations have developed Homeland Security initiatives or divisions and individuals with a Homeland Security Degree are in high demand for these positions. Career opportunities in private security have sky rocketed for talented and educated individuals. Examples of industries implementing Homeland Security initiatives are finance corporations, insurance agencies and security consulting agencies. The job opportunities for graduates with a Homeland Security degree are vast. A Homeland Security Degree will give an individual a clear advantage over a non-degree holding individual applying for jobs in law enforcement or national security. A degree holder can also expect to earn, on average, $15,000 a year more than a non-degree holder. Salaries usually depend on one’s skills and position. For those interested in private security or corporate security management level careers, a B.S. in Organizational Security & Management is an excellent option.

A Criminal Justice Degree prepares students for many of the same jobs as a Homeland Security Degree will, but with a more broad focus. Make sure to check out the schools below that offer degrees in Criminal Justice.

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