Homeland Security Associate Degrees

This two-year degree can help you start exploring criminal justice and assist you in figuring out if this field is a good fit for you. As an associate degree in homeland security student, you may address many different learning goals. Your education may prepare you for entry-level careers in this field or give you the broad base of knowledge you need to get started in a Bachelor’s degree program. If you’re interested in earning an associate degree in homeland security, get started by contacting schools near you now.

Curriculum for Associate’s in Homeland Security Programs

While earning an associate degree in homeland security, you may take courses to help you function in the different roles required in this field. You may learn how professionals handle civil and criminal cases relating to the safety of the country, how to prepare for different threats that may arise throughout the duration of your career, and how to assess various situations and threats.

To tackle the many learning goals posed by associate programs in homeland security, you may take courses like Homeland Security and Critical Infrastructure, Homeland Security Legal Issues, Emergency Management, and Terrorism & Weapons of Mass Destruction. After you have completed all your required courses, you may have the chance to complete an internship at a local criminal justice agency. An internship can put you in contact with working homeland security professionals, test your ability to put your knowledge to use, and help you add relevant experience to your CV.

The curriculum of your homeland security program may be designed to build specific skills in this industry. Upon graduating, you may know more about enhancing security on a statewide and nationwide level, preventing or stopping terrorism, enforcing immigration laws, responding to natural disasters, and protecting the country’s borders.

Career Outlook for Homeland Security Majors

With an associate degree in homeland security, you may have the education and training needed for an entry-level career in criminal justice. With further education, training, and seniority, you may then be ready to expand your responsibilities and job duties accordingly.

Transportation security is a major priority in this specialty. After completing your associate degree, you may decide to work as a transportation security screener. Transportation security screeners may search baggage and cargo, use screening equipment or search techniques to examine travelers, or enforce security protocols. O*Net reports that the average salary for a transportation security screener is $47,710 per year (2022). Through 2032, O*Net expects job openings for security screeners to remain steady. As this field continues to evolve and change, transportation agencies may be on the lookout for trained graduates that can work with the newest technology and detect the most common threats.

2022 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and employment figures contained here reflect national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed November 2023.

Homeland security is a growing field that demands dedication from its professionals. Contact associate degree programs in your area to find out how to get started.