Keiser University

Homeland Security and Emergency Management

Fort Myers Campus
Master Degree
Homeland Security and Emergency Management
Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Keiser University offers this program online.
$17,404 per semester. This program spans 3 semesters at full-time enrollment.
To receive a Master of Arts in Homeland Security and Emergency Management, students must earn 30 graduate semester credit hours. The length of this program is approximately 22 months.
A one-time $55 application fee applies on enrollment (subject to annual review).
Keiser University participates in federal Title IV financial aid. Grants are not available at the graduate level — once an undergraduate degree is conferred, students are no longer eligible for them — but federal student loans and scholarships are available to those who qualify.

Homeland Security and Emergency Management is a Master Degree program (100% Online) offered by Keiser University in Fort Myers, FL. The program takes 22 Months to complete, with tuition of $17,404 per semester.

Program Overview

Keiser University’s Master of Arts degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management provides an intensive study of topics related to protecting the U.S. from threats to Homeland Security. The program fosters independent learning and enables students to contribute intellectually to the areas of homeland security, border patrol and cyber security. Students learn to work in areas such as border patrol, airports, seaports and waterways; research and development of the latest security technologies; responders to natural disasters or terrorist assaults; analysis of intelligence reports, and other timely areas related to homeland security and emergency management. Graduates demonstrate a conceptual understanding of homeland security and topics related to protecting the U.S. from threats to homeland security and critically analyze and solve problems based on applied research methods.

Program Goals

Keiser University’s MAHS & EM program enables students to contribute to the homeland security profession and fosters independent learning. Upon completion of this program students are able to:

  • Develop the knowledge and expertise to critically evaluate an agency’s ability to prevent, detect, or respond to local, regional, state, and national incidents and emergencies.
  • Build skilled professionals who are equipped to Evaluate, research, and critically analyze gaps or deficiencies in approaches/strategies to national safety and security.
  • Develop effective leaders who possess the skills to manage and communicate in a professional and ethical manner across safety and security settings in the public and private sector.

What sets this Program apart

Gain Job-Ready Skills for a Homeland Security and Emergency Management Career:

  • Strategic planning and resource planning
  • Emergency preparedness and disaster management
  • Hazard management and recovery operations
  • Critical infrastructure and infrastructure protection
  • Crisis management activities and emergency plan development
  • Leadership skills and public administration
  • Research methods and data analysis
  • Homeland security policies and national security frameworks
  • Transportation security and border security operations

Keiser University offers career-focused degree programs designed to support working adults, traditional students, and career changers. With on-campus, online, and hybrid learning options, experienced faculty, and comprehensive student support, Keiser helps learners achieve their personal and professional goals at all levels.

Admission Requirements and Process

Applicants desiring to enter Keiser University must submit an application to the Admissions Office well in advance of the start date. This permits proper scheduling and ensures availability of classroom space. Applications for Winter, Spring, Summer, or Fall semesters should be made as early as possible, as these entry dates are normally the time of greatest enrollment.

Credit for courses or degrees completed at another institution is subject to approval by the Dean of Academic Affairs. These courses or degrees must be similar in content and duration to those offered in the program for which an applicant has applied. The Dean of Academic Affairs makes the final decision of accepted transfer credits from the received transcript. However, only courses listed on official transcripts receive permanent official transfer credit. To grant such credit, Keiser University must receive official transcript directly from the previous institution by the end of a student’s first semester. Keiser University requires that, at a minimum, a student complete at least one third of the credit hours required for any graduate or post-baccalaureate professional degree through instruction offered by Keiser University. Active duty, reservists, and National Guard service members who are students can complete at a minimum one third of a program at any time through the University. Transfer students are informed in writing of any credits accepted as transferable. Preliminary notification is presented, in most cases, prior to enrollment but in no case later than the end of a transfer student's first semester. Students are responsible for having official transcripts sent to Keiser University from all former institution(s). It may be necessary for students to forfeit some previously earned credit in the transfer process since college philosophies, objectives and programs may vary and change from year to year. Keiser University does not make any blanket assurances or guarantees regarding the acceptance or transferability of credits from other institutions. Each credit evaluation is conducted on a caseby-case basis in accordance with university policy.

Keiser University may accept transfer credits from a college or university recognized by the by the U.S. Department of Education (USDE). Coursework must be equivalent in content, level, and credit hours to the corresponding Keiser University course/s.

Qualified, accepted master’s degree seeking students may transfer a maximum of 12 graduate level credits, but no more than two-thirds of the total credit hours (whichever is less), required for the program unless otherwise specified by a programmatic accreditor.

Acceptable courses will be equivalent to a B grade or higher unless otherwise specified by programmatic requirements. Courses represented with a Pass or Satisfactory grade may be transferable at the discretion of the program chair and/or appropriate program Dean.

General Requirements

  • Baccalaureate or Master’s Transcript
    Submission of an unofficial baccalaureate or master's transcript from an accredited school. If transcripts are in a foreign language, student must provide proof of Foreign…
  • Official Transcript Deadline
    Failure to provide an official transcript by the end of the first semester will lead to dismissal from the program and Graduate School.
  • Minimum 3.0 CGPA
    Minimum 3.0 CGPA
  • Resume or Curriculum Vitae
    Resume or Curriculum Vitae
  • Personal Statement (if CGPA is below 3.0)
    If CGPA is < 3.0, Keiser University’s Graduate School requires the submission of a Personal Statement. This personal statement should include an explanation regarding the factors…
  • Supplemental Documents (optional)
    Supplemental documentation may be included to support a prospective student’s application. Supplemental documents may include: ▪ Letter of Recommendation ▪ GMAT or GRE Test Scores
  • Baccalaureate Degree Required
    Candidates for admission to the MACJ and MAHS & EM programs are required to hold a four-year baccalaureate degree (or equivalent) from an accredited institution.
  • Any Undergraduate Major
    An undergraduate degree in criminal justice is not a requirement; qualified students from all backgrounds are encouraged to submit applications.
  • Admission Decision
    An admission decision is based on a combination of a student’s undergraduate and/or graduate academic performance, professional experience, and supplemental documents.

Application Process

  1. 1
    Contact an Admissions Counselor
    Contact one of Keiser University’s friendly admissions counselors.
  2. 2
    Attend an Open House or Campus Visit
    Attend an Open House or plan a campus visit.
  3. 3
    Meet With Your Admissions Counselor
    Schedule a convenient time to meet with your admissions counselor to determine if Keiser University is right for you.
  4. 4
    Submit an Application
    Submit an application and complete your enrollment profile and application.
    Apply Now
  5. 5
    Review Program Requirements
    Review the Graduate School admission requirements for your program.
  6. 6
    Upload Your Admission Documents
    In the Student Enrollment Portal, click on “My Documents” and upload the corresponding documents to fulfil the admission requirements. Then submit the Letter of Recommendation Form and your Personal Statement.
  7. 7
    Schedule Your Financial Aid Appointment
    Your admissions counselor will connect you to your dedicated Financial Aid Officer to schedule your appointment and receive assistance completing the FAFSA. Collect your prior-year income tax returns in preparation. Keiser University’s FAFSA school code is 015159.
  8. 8
    Class Registration
    Once you have accepted your financial aid funding plan, the registrars will schedule your courses throughout your entire degree plan from start to completion. Exceptions may apply if you have transfer credits.
  9. 9
    Order Books
    Your admissions counselor will assist you in ordering your books through the online bookstore. Standard receipt is 3–5 business days unless you order priority.
  10. 10
    Attend Orientation
    Online programs offer a self-paced orientation through Blackboard, or a scheduled live session before each class start date with a second option afterwards. For campus programs, speak with your admissions counselor about orientation requirements at your location.
  11. 11
    Begin Classes
    The class week runs Monday through Sunday, midnight EST. You must log in by Wednesday of week one to confirm attendance, and participate a minimum of three logins per week in the Blackboard classroom for each course. Campus students should see their academic team for attendance requirements by program.

Program Schedule

Courses in the MAHS & EM program are eight weeks in length.

Keiser University publishes this program as 30.0 graduate semester credit hours, approximately 22 months in length (this will vary if a student transfers in credits).

Keiser University’s Graduate School Academic Calendar runs three semesters a year, beginning in January, May and August, and each semester is made up of two eight-week terms — six start dates a year.

New cohorts start regularly throughout the year. Our start dates are as follows:
  • October 26th, 2026
  • January 11th, 2027
  • March 08th, 2027
  • May 10th, 2027
  • July 05th, 2027

Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid Information

Per Semester Tuition
≈ $17,404
FAFSA Code
Net Price Calculator

Keiser University charges tuition and education fees per semester, based on scheduled credit hours. Each semester is 16 weeks. The rates below are the university’s published Tuition and Fee Disclosure for the Graduate School, effective Fall Semester 2026, and are subject to annual review.

This program is charged at the rate for Master’s degree and graduate-level certificate programs.

Semester credit loadTuition per semester
Full time (12+ credits)$17,404.00
Three-quarter time (9 to 11.99 credits)$13,053.00
Half time (6 to 8.99 credits)$8,702.00
Less than half time (3 to 5.99 credits)$4,351.00

An education fee of $750.00 per semester is charged for all graduate-level programs. One-time charges on enrolment are an application fee of $55.00 and a registration fee of $145.00.

Curriculum

To receive a Master of Arts in Homeland Security and Emergency Management, students must earn 30 graduate semester credit hours. The length of this program is approximately 22 months.

Required Courses

Subject #NameCredits
MACJ501Seminar in Criminal Justice (taken in first semester)3
MACJ540Professionalism, Leadership and Ethics in CJ3
MACJ571Seminar in Homeland Security3
MACJ573Domestic and International Terrorism3
MACJ574Cyber Security3
MACJ576Border Security: Policies and Intervention3
MACJ585Crisis & Emergency Management3
MACJ586Intelligence and Investigations3
MACJ590Research Methods in CJ3
MACJ610Capstone3

Career Outcomes

Career Pathways in Homeland Security and Emergency Management

Graduates of Keiser University’s online master’s degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management prepare to pursue leadership roles across federal and local government agencies, law enforcement, emergency management programs, and the private sector. This graduate program supports criminal justice professionals and emergency managers by strengthening their ability to analyze security risks, conduct research, develop homeland security policies, and coordinate recovery operations at every level. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for emergency management directors and homeland security professionals continues to grow as organizations seek qualified leaders capable of managing natural and manmade disasters, terrorist threats, and global threats to public safety.

  • Customs Agent
  • Border Patrol Director
  • Coast Guard Director
  • Immigration and Naturalization Service Agent
  • Federal Emergency Management Agent (FEMA)
  • Homeland Security Program Manager with the DHS
  • Emergency Management Professional
  • Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Officer
  • Intelligence Analyst
  • National Security Specialist
  • Emergency Management Director

What to expect as a Keiser University student

Keiser University’s graduate program in Homeland Security and Emergency Management prepares experienced professionals to advance through master’s study with flexible online delivery and a career-focused curriculum. Built to align with the goals of emergency management professionals, criminal justice professionals, and homeland security professionals alike, the program develops the leadership skills, practical skills, and foundational knowledge needed to pursue senior roles across government agencies and the private sector. Whether the goal involves leading disaster response, shaping homeland security policies, or directing emergency management programs, Keiser provides the quality education and professional development needed to make a lasting impact.

Campus Address

Fort Myers Campus
9100 Forum Corporate Pkwy
Fort Myers, FL 33905

Why Accreditation Is Important

Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, master’s, educational specialist and doctorate degrees.

  • Eligible for federal Title IV financial aid
  • Credits earned toward a respected credential

Images

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Homeland Security and Emergency Management

Top Questions About Earning a Master’s in Homeland Security and Emergency Management

Can I complete this emergency management degree online at Keiser University?
Yes. Keiser University’s Master of Arts in Homeland Security and Emergency Management is available online, giving working professionals the ability to pursue graduate study without interrupting their careers. Students receive the same quality education, faculty support, and career services across all delivery formats.
What sets this program apart from a criminal justice degree?
A criminal justice degree focuses on law enforcement, courts, corrections, and the broader justice system. The Master of Arts in Homeland Security and Emergency Management concentrates on national security, emergency preparedness, disaster management, border security, and interagency coordination. The program also includes a criminal justice foundation through its Seminar in Criminal Justice course, making it a strong fit for criminal justice professionals seeking to specialize in homeland security and emergency management.
What careers can I pursue with this graduate degree?
Graduates who complete this homeland security degree pursue careers as emergency management directors, intelligence analysts, border patrol directors, transportation security officers, federal emergency management agents, public safety officers, and national security specialists. Roles exist across federal government agencies, state and local emergency management programs, and the private sector.
Can I receive credit for courses completed at another institution?
Keiser University’s Graduate School welcomes transfer credits from accredited institutions, subject to evaluation and approval. Key transfer credit policies include: Credit transfer benefits: students who have earned credits at other institutions may be able to apply them toward their degree, helping reduce overall tuition costs and time to completion. Credit transfer is subject to evaluation and approval. For full details, refer to the Graduate School transfer of credit FAQ and Transfer Credits Policy Master’s degree students may transfer up to 12 graduate-level credits (master’s or doctoral level) from an accredited college or university, provided the courses are equivalent to relevant Keiser University courses. Doctoral degree students may transfer up to 18 graduate-level credits (master’s or doctoral level) with evaluation and approval. Undergraduate credits are not transferable to graduate-level programs. Credits from non-accredited institutions that are substantially equivalent in content may be granted on a course-by-course basis. Transfer credits from non-U.S. institutions are evaluated through an approved educational evaluator service confirming equivalency to coursework at a U.S. accredited institution. Acceptable courses must be equivalent to a grade of B or higher; courses with a Pass or Satisfactory grade may be considered at the discretion of the Dean.
Is financial aid available for online students?
Yes. Online students may access financial aid resources. Scholarships are available to those who qualify. Keiser offers scholarship options for eligible military, teachers, first responders/emergency management professionals, and previous graduates. Simply ask your Financial Aid Officer for more information during the financial aid process. For more details, refer to the Graduate School Prospective Students FAQ.
Does Keiser University hold accreditation as an institution?
Yes. Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Learn more about Keiser University accreditation. The SACSCOC accreditation ensures Keiser University meets rigorous quality standards, which is crucial for students as it affects access to federal financial aid, the transferability of credits to other accredited schools, and recognition of graduate degree programs. This accreditation signifies that the institution adheres to standards that ensure educational quality and institutional effectiveness.
Who should consider a master's in emergency management and homeland security?
This program suits criminal justice professionals, law enforcement officers, military veterans, first responders, public administration professionals, and recent bachelor’s degree graduates who want to move into leadership roles in homeland security and emergency management. The curriculum prepares students for direct disaster response, strategic planning, and government agency coordination.
How long does the application process take?
The application process at Keiser begins with submitting an online application. After connecting with an admissions team member and providing the necessary documentation, an enrollment advisor can walk through each step, answer questions about the admissions process, and help identify financial aid opportunities before a start date is confirmed.
How much does it cost to earn this degree?
Tuition at Keiser University varies by degree program. Keiser offers financial aid, military and veteran benefits, scholarships, and tuition reimbursement to those who qualify, which can affect total tuition cost. For more detailed cost information, please contact an admissions counselor. Get more information about Keiser University’s tuition and costs.
What core courses make up the program?
Core courses in the Master of Arts in Homeland Security and Emergency Management include Seminar in Criminal Justice, Seminar in Homeland Security, Domestic and International Terrorism, Cyber Security, Border Security: Policies and Intervention, Crisis and Emergency Management, Intelligence and Investigations, Research Methods in CJ, and a Capstone. Each course runs eight weeks, and students typically take two courses at a time.
Ready to get started?
Apply to Homeland Security and Emergency Management at Fort Myers Campus.
Homeland Security and Emergency Management