Homeland security careers offer long-term stability, strong government demand, and meaningful public service—but choosing the right degree program matters. Today’s homeland security graduates work not only for DHS, but also in:
- emergency management
- cybersecurity
- intelligence analysis
- private-sector risk management
The best programs combine affordability, real-world training, and strong connections to government and public safety employers.
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Homeland Security Careers in 2026: What’s Changed
By 2026, homeland security careers have expanded far beyond a narrow focus on terrorism prevention. Today’s professionals are increasingly involved in:
- cybersecurity and critical infrastructure protection
- safeguarding power grids, transportation systems
- digital networks from cyber threats and disruption
Disaster response and climate resilience have also become core priorities, as FEMA and state agencies respond to more frequent hurricanes, wildfires, floods, and public health emergencies. In addition, border security and humanitarian response roles have grown, blending national security with immigration processing, asylum coordination, and disaster relief for displaced populations.
This expansion has fueled increased hiring across federal, state, and private sectors. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and FEMA continue to recruit analysts, emergency managers, intelligence specialists, and cybersecurity professionals. At the same time, state and local emergency management agencies are growing to handle climate-driven risks, while private-sector security, risk management, and compliance roles are absorbing homeland security graduates with policy, planning, and analytical skills.
Finally, online and hybrid homeland security degrees are now widely accepted, especially for working adults, military members, and first responders. Employers increasingly focus on accreditation, practical skills, and specialization rather than delivery format, making flexible degree programs a viable and respected pathway into modern homeland security careers.
Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Homeland Security Degree Programs
To rank the best homeland security degree programs in the US, Bachelor’s Degree Center editors sought out bachelor’s degrees focused on national security. From our initial pool, we selected only accredited, trusted institutions that we then ranked based on their Tuition Cost, Student Satisfaction, and Salary Potential.
| School | Degree Title | Delivery Format | Best For | Location / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| George Mason University | Criminology, Law & Society, BS | On-campus | Federal / D.C. career pipeline | Near Washington, D.C. |
| Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University | Homeland Security, BS | On-campus / Online | Aerospace + security combo | Strong expert lecturers |
| University of North Texas | Emergency Administration & Planning, BS | On-campus | Public/private emergency leadership | Affordable TX public |
| LeTourneau University | Political Science/Homeland Security, BS | On-campus | Government + security leadership | Faith-based environment |
| Tulane University | Homeland Security Studies, BA | On-campus / Hybrid | Nontraditional & hybrid learners | Strong alumni network |
| West Texas A&M University | Emergency Management Administration, BAAS | Online | Working professionals | Highly ranked online |
| Mississippi College | Administration of Justice & Homeland Security, BS | On-campus | Faith-based + justice focus | Personalized instruction |
| Virginia Commonwealth University | Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness, BA | On-campus | Emergency + community engagement | Proximity to D.C. |
| Sul Ross State University | Homeland Security, BS | Hybrid | Hands-on + crime focus | Mix of online & in-person |
| Regent University | Criminal Justice/Homeland Security, BS | On-campus | Faith-based + internship access | Strong Washington metro ties |
| Monmouth University | Homeland Security, BS | On-campus | Customized elective pathways | Near NYC / DC / Philly |
| Campbell University | Homeland Security, BS | Online | Adult learners | Low tuition + online flexibility |
| Mercy College | Corporate & Homeland Security, BS | On-campus | Urban internships + leadership prep | NYC location |
| SUNY College of Technology at Canton | Homeland Security, BS | On-campus | Associate-to-BS pathway | Northeast regional program |
| SUNY University at Albany | Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security & Cybersecurity, BA/BS | On-campus | Broad emergency + cybersecurity focus | Large public research university |
1. George Mason University
The Criminology, Law and Society BS program at George Mason University is recognized around the country as one of the best homeland security degree programs. Throughout this course of study, students get more than just a criminology education. They learn to delve into the deep societal problems that cause crime to happen in the first place. Students graduate as esteemed critical thinkers, ready to work with people who struggle with crime to make the world a better place.
All students at George Mason take part in the Mason Core program requirements, a set of core general education courses designed to give students a well-rounded education. These classes let employers know that graduates of George Mason are ready to take on more than just tasks related to their major.
What We Like: George Mason’s proximity to Washington, D.C. gives students unmatched access to federal agencies, policy internships, and homeland security career pipelines while still earning a broadly respected public university degree.
Degree: Criminology, Law and Society, BS
Criminology, Law and Society BS program — George Mason University
2. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Embry Riddle Aeronautical University’s Homeland Security BS program is one of the best security degrees available in the South, and is the perfect fit for students who want to combine their love of aerospace with their love of homeland security. Students have the opportunity to take two minors, to take one minor and one concentration throughout their homeland security education. This gives them the chance to specialize their degree to meet their career goal needs.
At Embry Riddle, the curriculum for the homeland security program changes constantly. Faculty watch changes in world conditions and update the program to reflect the condition and needs of world security.
What We Like: At Embry Riddle, guest lecturers are frequently the star of the show. Homeland security experts regularly come to provide guest lectures and even teach entire courses.
Degree: Homeland Security, BS
Embry Riddle Aeronautical University Homeland Security BS
3. University of North Texas
The Emergency Administration and Planning BS degree at University of North Texas is one of the best homeland security degree programs available today. Students in this program don’t just learn the basics of how to handle an emergency — they emerge prepared to be leaders in the field. The program prepares students to communicate effectively with other leaders. Students are also required to take a minor to create a well-rounded education.
After studying at University of North Texas, many students go on to work for the Red Cross as disaster specialists. Students are well prepared for work in both the public and private sectors after successful completion of the program. Many students go on to work for other nonprofit organizations as well.
What We Like: UNT’s emergency administration program emphasizes leadership and real-world disaster response, with strong placement into nonprofits, public agencies, and emergency management roles nationwide.
Degree: Emergency Administration and Planning, BS
Emergency Administration and Planning BS — University of North Texas
4. LeTourneau University
The Political Science/Homeland Security BS program at LeTourneau University is one of the best security degree options currently available to students who are interested in eventually working for the Department of Homeland Security. This program prepares students to work with government, public, and private organizations, and emphasizes leadership and the intersection of politics and security.
Esteemed professor Dr. John Barrett has years of experience working in homeland security, both domestically and abroad. Students who get to study under Dr. Barrett benefit from both his years of experience and his excitement to share what he’s learned with others.
What We Like: LeTourneau University is a Christian school, perfect for students who want to grow in their faith while also learning how to keep the nation safe.
Degree: Political Science/Homeland Security, BS
Political Science/Homeland Security BS — LeTourneau University
5. Tulane University
At Tulane University, the Homeland Security Studies BA program is widely respected as one of the best homeland security degree programs in the country.
Students have the option of earning their degree either on campus or in a hybrid on-campus/online program. The second option is the perfect fit for nontraditional students who want to continue to advance in their careers while also furthering their education. Tulane welcomes nontraditional students and works to make the accommodations necessary for people with busy schedules to earn their degrees.
What We Like: Located in the bustling metropolis of New Orleans, students have the opportunity to meet many local alums working in the field. Tulane’s widespread alumni network sets students up for success post-graduation.
Degree: Homeland Security Studies, BA
Tulane University Homeland Security Studies BA
6. West Texas A&M University
The Emergency Management Administration BAAS at West Texas A&M University is one of the best homeland security degree programs available to students today. This program focuses on turning students into expert first responders, training them to make important decisions at a fast, life-saving pace. Leadership and community development are also focuses of the program, making students into important parts of their community who can contribute to growth.
This online program allows students to learn on their own time, at their own pace, and is perfect for busy professionals who want to continue to advance their careers while also working toward getting their degrees. The program is built for both full and part-time students. The program primarily focuses on nontraditional students who are currently working in the emergency services field.
What We Like: This program is designed specifically for working emergency professionals, offering a flexible online format with coursework that directly applies to real emergency management scenarios
Degree: Emergency Management Administration, BAAS
Emergency Management Administration BAAS — West Texas A&M University
7. Mississippi College
At Mississippi College, the Administration of Justice, Homeland Security BS program is known as one of the best security degrees available in the South. While students get a well-rounded education in crime and justice throughout the program, they’re also pushed to develop their critical thinking skills. Students question the way crime and justice are handled in the United States today and debate how to improve the future of the country.
Created in 1984, the Administration of Justice program has created decades of leaders in security, law enforcement, and government leadership positions. Faculty members work closely with students to help them develop courses of study that will lead them toward their long-term career goals.
What We Like: Mississippi College combines justice studies and homeland security with small class sizes and faculty mentorship—ideal for students seeking a close-knit, values-driven academic environment.
Degree: Administration of Justice, Homeland Security, BS
Mississippi College Homeland Security BS
8. Virginia Commonwealth University
The Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness BA at Virginia Commonwealth University creates graduates who are well prepared to take on the complex realities of homeland security today. Known as one of the best security degree programs, students learn to excel both in the classroom and as leaders. As a BA program, students also must complete a foreign language component, making them even more career-ready after they graduate.
Since November 11th, Virginia, New York, and Pennsylvania have become hot spots for people who want to study homeland security. The area has attracted top-notch faculty who are able to share their experiences both from this terrorist attack and other world events that have shaped the way we view the world.
What We Like: Virginia Commonwealth University is highly dedicated to serving their community — students complete over 1 million hours of community service each year. The school’s close proximity to Washington, D.C., make it a perfect location for students who are interested in eventually working for the government in the Department of Homeland Security.
Degree: Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, BA
Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness BA — Virginia Commonwealth University
9. Sul Ross State University
At Sul Ross State University, the Homeland Security BS is known as one of the best security degree programs available to students who are interested in working in either the public or the private sector. The program focuses on how terrorism has affected the government, and how governmental restructuring can help to protect the nation against terrorist attacks. This specialized program is perfect for students who want to go on to work in the government, or in the public/ private sectors.
This degree offers a hybrid course of study, allowing students to take some of their classes online. This option is perfect for nontraditional students who are working to balance their career and other responsibilities while also earning their degree. Hybrid programs are a perfect combination of in classroom and online studies, allowing students to enjoy valuable face time with their professors and classmates while also balancing the needs of their day-to-day lives.
What We Like: Sul Ross offers a rare blend of homeland security theory and hands-on criminal investigation experiences, appealing to students who want applied learning alongside academic study.
Degree: Homeland Security, BS
Sul Ross State University Homeland Security BS
10. Regent University
At Regent University’s Criminal Justice/Homeland Security BS program, students get to earn one of the best homeland security degrees available in the United States today. The program doesn’t just cover traditional homeland security topics — it also delves into juvenile justice, ethics, constitutional law, criminal law, terrorism, and more.
As a Christian school, Regent University anchors its teachings in faith and Christian principles. This program is perfect for students who want to grow in their faith while also learning how to make the country (and world) a safer place.
What We Like: Regent’s Virginia location is perfect for students who want to eventually work for the Department of Homeland Security in Washington, D.C. The school’s location lends itself to providing students with internship opportunities they may not have in other locations.
Degree: Criminal Justice/Homeland Security, BS
Regent University Criminal Justice/Homeland Security BS
11. Monmouth University
The Homeland Security BS degree at Monmouth University is one of the best homeland security degree programs available in the country. Students on the Homeland Security, BS track at Monmouth have the opportunity to take up to 31 elective credits, allowing them to design a program that makes sense for their future career goals.
Unlike many BS programs, the Homeland Security, BS degree at Monmouth requires that students take classes in cultural diversity/ global understanding or foreign language, helping them to become global citizens with a deeper understanding of the world at large. At most schools, these requirements are only found in BA programs.
What We Like: Monmouth University’s coastal location in New Jersey makes New York City, Baltimore, Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia just a quick train ride away. These locations provide students with fantastic cultural and internship opportunities.
Degree: Homeland Security, BS
Homeland Security BS — Monmouth University
12. Campbell University
Campbell University’s Homeland Security BS is one of the best homeland security degree programs available in the United States today. The broad areas of study included in the program are intelligence and writing, domestic counterterrorism, border/ transportation security, emergency preparedness and response, protecting critical infrastructure and key areas, and defending against catastrophic threats. Together, these focus areas create a well-rounded education that leaves graduates prepared for any career in homeland security.
Geared toward adult and nontraditional students, the Homeland Security, BS program at Campbell University is perfect for busy professionals who want to earn their degree while also continuing to work toward their career goals. This program is available online, making it simple for students to work on their own time, at their own pace. Campbell is dedicated to helping adults get the education they want, without interfering with their career goals.
What We Like: Campbell University’s low tuition rates make the school perfect for people who want to go back to school on a budget.
Degree: Homeland Security, BS
Campbell University Homeland Security BS
13. Mercy College
At Mercy College, students in the Corporate and Homeland Security BS program get to earn one of the best homeland security degrees. The program focuses on leadership, including how to build a team in stressful situations. Business and security concepts classes can also be an important part of this degree if the student chooses to branch out and specialize in these areas.
Faculty at Mercy work closely with students to help them move toward their career goals. Whether that means helping them choose electives or connecting them with professionals in the field for internship opportunities, the world-class faculty at Mercy can help students take the steps they need to succeed after graduation.
What We Like: Mercy’s New York City location gives students direct exposure to corporate security, infrastructure protection, and private-sector homeland security roles.
Degree: Corporate and Homeland Security, BS
Mercy College Corporate and Homeland Security BS
14. SUNY College of Technology at Canton
At SUNY College of Technology at Canton, students in the Homeland Security BS program get to earn one of the best homeland security degrees in the Northeast. The program works to teach students how to anticipate and fight against domestic terrorism, how to understand and appropriately apply the concepts of The Patriot Act, how to apply the constitution and civil liberties to terrorism scenarios, and how to use intelligence analysis to effectively fight terrorism
At SUNY College of Technology at Canton, faculty work closely with students to provide hands-on experiences that show them what it will be like to work with homeland security concepts in the real world. Faculty are readily available to answer questions and work closely with students to help them work toward their career goals.
What We Like: This program is built perfectly for students who have earned their associate’s degree and are ready to take the next step in furthering their education.
Degree: Homeland Security, BS
SUNY College of Technology at Canton Homeland Security BS
15. University at Albany (SUNY)
The Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security, and Cybersecurity BA/BS program at SUNY University at Albany is one of the best homeland security degree programs available to students today. Encompassing a wide variety of homeland security concepts, this program allows students to graduate fully ready to take on the changes and developments in the homeland security arena.
The program sets students up to be ready to step up as leaders in hard situations. SUNY at Albany recognizes that there’s more that goes into a homeland security degree than just understanding security concepts. Students need the confidence and ability to lead when things get hard, and the program prepares them to do exactly that.
What We Like: One of the hallmarks of SUNY at Albany is the living-learning communities offered on campus. Students can live and take classes with groups of students who share similar interests, deepening their learning.
Degree: Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security, and Cybersecurity BA / BS
Homeland Security Salary & Job Outlook (2026)
| Role / Specialization | Typical Employer | Entry-Level Salary | Mid-Career Salary | Senior Salary Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emergency Management Coordinator | Local / State Government | $45,000–$55,000 | $60,000–$75,000 | $85,000–$100,000 |
| Emergency Management Director | FEMA / State Agencies | $55,000–$65,000 | $75,000–$90,000 | $95,000–$110,000+ |
| Cybersecurity Analyst (Homeland Security) | DHS / Federal Contractors | $55,000–$65,000 | $75,000–$90,000 | $100,000–$120,000+ |
| Infrastructure Protection Specialist | DHS / Private Sector | $50,000–$60,000 | $70,000–$85,000 | $95,000–$115,000 |
| Intelligence Analyst | Federal Agencies | $50,000–$60,000 | $65,000–$80,000 | $90,000–$105,000 |
| Border Security / Immigration Analyst | DHS / CBP / ICE | $45,000–$55,000 | $60,000–$75,000 | $85,000–$100,000 |
| Homeland Security Program Manager | Federal / State Agencies | $55,000–$65,000 | $75,000–$90,000 | $95,000–$110,000+ |
| Risk & Compliance Manager | Private Sector / Contractors | $50,000–$60,000 | $70,000–$85,000 | $95,000–$115,000 |
| Disaster Response Planner | FEMA / NGOs | $45,000–$55,000 | $60,000–$75,000 | $80,000–$95,000 |
| Homeland Security Administrator | State & Local Government | $45,000–$55,000 | $60,000–$70,000 | $75,000–$90,000 |
Homeland security continues to offer stable, well-paid careers in 2026, especially as government agencies and private employers respond to cybersecurity threats, climate-driven disasters, and evolving national security risks. Salaries vary by role, specialization, and employer level, but overall compensation trends remain strong.
Homeland Security Salary Ranges (2026)
- Entry-level roles ($45,000–$60,000)
Common titles include program assistants, emergency management coordinators, security analysts (junior), intelligence technicians, and compliance specialists. These roles are often filled by recent bachelor’s graduates or military veterans transitioning to civilian service. - Mid-career analysts & managers ($65,000–$85,000)
Professionals with 5–10 years of experience typically move into roles such as emergency management planners, cybersecurity analysts, intelligence analysts, risk managers, and program managers. Supervisory responsibilities and specialized expertise drive pay increases. - Senior or specialized roles ($90,000–$110,000+)
Senior emergency managers, cybersecurity leads, intelligence supervisors, homeland security directors, and federal GS-13+ roles can exceed six figures—especially in high-cost metro areas or federal agencies.
Pay Differences by Role & Employer
- Federal vs. State/Local
- Federal roles (DHS, FEMA, TSA, CBP): Generally higher salaries, structured GS pay scales, stronger benefits
- State & local agencies: Slightly lower base pay, but often balanced by pension systems, job stability, and local leadership opportunities
- Emergency Management vs. Cybersecurity
- Emergency management: Strong demand nationwide, salaries typically in the mid-range unless in leadership roles
- Cybersecurity & infrastructure protection: Among the highest-paid homeland security tracks due to technical skill shortages
- Intelligence vs. Administration
- Intelligence & analysis roles: Higher pay tied to clearance level, specialization, and federal placement
- Administrative & program coordination roles: More stable but generally lower salary ceilings
Job Outlook Through 2026
Employment growth in homeland security is driven by:
- Increased federal funding for disaster preparedness and climate resilience
- Persistent cybersecurity threats to critical infrastructure
- Expansion of border operations, immigration processing, and humanitarian response
- Greater reliance on data analysis, policy coordination, and interagency planning
According to projections from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), emergency management, cybersecurity, and intelligence-related occupations are expected to grow at or above the national average. DHS workforce reports and USAJobs postings continue to show consistent hiring across analyst, planner, and management roles.
FAQs
Why Should I Get a Homeland Security Degree?
The US Department of Homeland Security is tasked with keeping the nation safe. Established just several days after the infamous 9/11 attacks, the DHS is primarily concerned with preventing and responding to terrorism. However, they also respond to other US safety threats. For example, during the COVID-19 crisis, the DHS put together a response team to help minimize risk and protect the US from as much damage as possible.
This mission includes a lot of factors, including air safety, cyber safety, and more. The DHS is made up of several organizations, such as the TSA, FEMA, etc. With all of these organizations under their umbrella, the DHS has a lot of roles to fill. It will always need smart, capable people to fill those roles and help keep Americans safe. That’s where having a homeland security degree can help you. With a homeland security major, you’ll learn everything it takes to protect the nation on a day-to-day basis.
How Do I Choose a Homeland Security Program?
The US has some excellent homeland security schools. When looking into those homeland security schools, there are a few things that you can do to find the one that’s right for you. For example, a “homeland security schools near me” search can help you get started. Other degree options include sociology, law enforcement, and similar majors.
The most important thing, though, is that you look for homeland security approved universities. When you research schools, look for regional accreditation. When a school is accredited, it means that it has met several standards for providing a relevant and challenging education. A non-accredited program won’t necessarily teach you all of the skills that you need, and employers prefer candidates with an accredited education. Plus, if you ever want to transfer schools, you’ll only be able to transfer your accredited courses. If you’ve taken non-accredited courses up until that point, you’ll have to start from scratch. It’s best to look for accredited schools from the start so that you can get the education that you need without wasting any of your time.
What else can you do to get started? You might decide to take some homeland security courses online. Free courses do exist, and they’re a great way to get started, learn some of the basics, and figure out whether or not this degree is right for you. While you can’t earn a full degree with these homeland security courses online, free classes are available to first responders through DHS.
What Will I Learn in a Homeland Security Degree Program?
In your homeland security degree program, you’ll get a broad overview of everything that goes into a homeland security job. Your courses will combine theory and practice. Because the DHS is primarily concerned with terrorism, many of your classes will also focus on terrorism. First, you’ll learn a lot of background information on why terrorism happens. You’ll explore the social, political, and psychological background of terrorist attacks. By understanding why terrorism happens, you’ll be in a better position to prevent it in the future.
Once you’ve learned some background information, your degree will lead you through practical courses that teach you how to respond to terrorism. Classes will focus on both prevention and mitigation.
Homeland security degree requirements include courses on sociology, cybersecurity, and similar subjects as well as some general education courses such as English and science. The average homeland security course description, for example, will include classes like the following:
- Sociology
- Psychology of Terrorism
- History of Terrorism
- Criminal Justice
- Public Safety
These courses prepare students to understand why terrorism happens, the best way to respond to terrorism, and how to prevent these threats from happening in the future. They all come together to form a bigger picture of keeping the nation safe.
Is a Homeland Security Degree Worth It in 2026?
Yes, a homeland security degree is worth it in 2026 for students seeking stable, mission-driven careers in government, emergency management, cybersecurity, and public safety. Demand continues to grow due to expanded focus on disaster response, infrastructure protection, border security, and cyber threats. Homeland security is also considered a recession-resistant field, with strong employment across federal, state, local, and private sectors.
Can I Work for DHS With a Bachelor’s Degree?
Yes. Many Department of Homeland Security (DHS) roles accept candidates with a bachelor’s degree, especially entry-level and analyst positions. Agencies such as FEMA, TSA, Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) regularly hire bachelor’s‑prepared graduates. Some advanced or leadership roles may require experience or a master’s degree, but a bachelor’s is a common starting point.
Are Online Homeland Security Degrees Respected?
Yes. Online homeland security degrees from regionally accredited universities are widely respected by employers in 2026. Federal agencies and government contractors focus on accreditation and skills, not delivery format. Many public universities now offer online or hybrid homeland security programs specifically designed for working adults, military members, and public-sector professionals.
Is Homeland Security the Same as Criminal Justice?
No. While the fields overlap, homeland security and criminal justice are not the same. Criminal justice focuses on law enforcement, courts, and corrections. Homeland security has a broader scope, covering terrorism prevention, disaster preparedness, cybersecurity, border security, emergency management, and critical infrastructure protection.
What’s the Difference Between Emergency Management and Homeland Security?
Emergency management is a subset of homeland security. Emergency management focuses on preparing for, responding to, and recovering from disasters (natural or man-made). Homeland security includes emergency management but also addresses intelligence, counterterrorism, border control, cybersecurity, and national infrastructure protection.
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15 Best Online Bachelor’s in Homeland Security
