Homeland Security
Homeland Security is a Bachelor Degree program offered by Keiser University in Port St. Lucie, FL. The program takes 4 Years to complete.
Program Overview
Keiser University’s Bachelor of Arts in Homeland Security offers a comprehensive understanding of the various elements involved in protecting our nation from international and domestic terrorism, cyber threats, and weapons of mass destruction. Coursework for the homeland security degree program explores every aspect of the homeland security industry, including emergency management, criminal law, intelligence community operations, border security, and more. Students examine how federal agencies, state governments, and the private sector work together to protect critical infrastructure, respond to terrorist groups, and manage everything from computer crime to natural disasters. Course materials introduce students to intelligence gathering techniques, signals intelligence, human intelligence, and the analysis of digital evidence. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of the forces shaping the homeland security field.
Request More Info Mission StatementThe mission of the Homeland Security program is to educate students about homeland security organizations at the federal, state, and local government levels; interagency coordination and cooperative emergency management efforts between government agencies and the private sector; government and business continuity planning; and the relationship between security and civil liberties. The program aims to prepare students to contribute to society, encourage and nurture intellectual curiosity, communication skills, and scholarship, and prepare students for employment opportunities or graduate school.
Program Goals- To facilitate the development of students’ proficiency in researching, collecting, and organizing complex data, solving problems, and working collaboratively.
- To develop practical knowledge and communication skills necessary for employment and advancement in Homeland Security related fields.
- Students will be able to provide competent, ethical leadership skills required in the Homeland Security field.
- Students will be able to operate in a climate of tolerance and respect where opposing viewpoints can be openly shared.
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Program Highlights- The homeland security degree program at Keiser University combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications. Students explore topics ranging from bioterrorism and hazardous materials to constitutional law and emergency planning.
- The capstone course in Current Topics in Public Safety brings together everything students have learned throughout the degree program.
- Flexible learning schedule offering online, on-campus, and hybrid options.
- Small class sizes allow for personalized attention and opportunities to develop strong communication skills.
- The program prepares students for both employment opportunities and continued study through a master’s degree in homeland security.
- An academic advisor works with each student to plan their course path and ensure they meet all general education courses and major requirements.
Required and Optional Fees for Programs: Fees are costs set by the university in addition to tuition (and room and board, if applicable). These fees may be required for your program or optional depending on the courses you take, and they support the costs associated with completing an approved program of study. Fees are defined in the university’s catalog or supplement and listed on the school’s billing statement or invoice. Fees that are optional will not be paid using GI Bill® benefits and will be the responsibility of the student choosing these additional options. For additional guidance, please see your Program Director or Admissions Counselor.
Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid Information
Federal financial aid, Florida state aid, institutional scholarships available. Veterans and military scholarship opportunities may apply. Financial aid counselors at all campuses.
Career Outcomes
Graduates of Keiser University’s homeland security degree program stand ready to pursue leadership roles within federal agencies, state and local government, and the private sector. This bachelor’s degree supports both new graduates and career changers by building a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system, emergency management field, and homeland security enterprise. Students learn to conduct risk assessment, analyze terrorist threats, and coordinate response measures across multiple agencies.
Career Pathways in Homeland Security
- Border Patrol Officer
- Customs Agent
- Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Agent
- Federal Emergency Management Agent (FEMA)
- Emergency Management Director
- Intelligence Analyst
- Public Safety Officer
- Special Agent
- Security Risk Assessment Specialist
- Emergency Preparedness Coordinator
- Threat Assessment Analyst
Why Choose Keiser University
Gain Job-Ready Skills for a Homeland Security Career
- Risk analysis and threat assessment techniques
- Emergency response coordination across agencies
- Intelligence analysis and investigation procedures
- Critical infrastructure protection strategies
- Constitutional law and criminal justice principles
- Cybersecurity and digital evidence analysis
- Emergency management planning and execution
- Incident command system operations
- Policy development and strategic planning
- Crisis communication and tactical communications
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.
Request More InfoFrequently Asked Questions
Can I get a homeland security degree online at Keiser University?
Yes. Keiser University’s Bachelor of Arts in Homeland Security is available online, with the option to study on campus or in a hybrid format if preferred. Students receive the same quality instruction, support, and resources across all delivery methods. The online bachelor’s degree format allows working professionals, military veterans, and other students with demanding schedules to complete coursework on their own timeline while still engaging with faculty and classmates.
What's the difference between the associate, bachelor's, and master's programs in homeland security?
The Associate of Arts in Homeland Security provides foundational knowledge of the Department of Homeland Security, major agencies, and emergency response procedures. The program prepares students for entry-level positions and takes approximately two years to complete.
The Bachelor of Arts in Homeland Security builds on that foundation with 120 credit hours covering management principles, emergency planning, critical infrastructure protection, and advanced topics in terrorism, cybersecurity, and tactical communications. This degree program prepares graduates for supervisory and management roles.
The Master of Arts in Homeland Security and Emergency Management offers graduate-level study for professionals seeking leadership positions within federal agencies, state governments, or the private sector. This advanced degree focuses on policy analysis, research methods, and strategic decision-making.
What careers can I pursue with a Bachelor's Degree in Homeland Security?
Graduates can pursue careers as border patrol officers, customs agents, TSA agents, emergency management, intelligence analysts, public safety officers, immigration officers, special agents, and positions within FEMA, Coast Guard, and other federal agencies. The criminal justice background also opens doors to roles in law enforcement, corrections, and security consulting within the private sector. Your career path depends on your interests, additional training or certifications, and whether you choose to work at the local, state, or federal level.
Can I transfer credits from another institution?
Yes, Keiser University accepts transfer credits for undergraduate and graduate-level programs. Our admissions team will work with you to review your transcripts and determine your transfer eligibility. Credits transfer based on several factors including accreditation and course equivalency. Learn more about credit transfer requirements and eligibility requirements.
Can financial aid cover my homeland security degree online?
Absolutely. Online students in this program may qualify for grants, scholarships, and tuition assistance programs. Military veterans may also qualify for education benefits. Speak with a dedicated financial aid counselor to explore all available options and create a plan that fits your situation. Learn more about Keiser University’s Financial Services.
Does Keiser University's homeland security program hold accreditation?
Keiser University holds institutional accreditation from 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 .
While the Homeland Security BA program does not require specialized programmatic accreditation, the program offers a robust and practical curriculum designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed for successful careers protecting our nation.
Can you become a federal agent with a homeland security degree?
Yes. A bachelor’s degree in homeland security from Keiser University provides strong preparation for federal law enforcement positions. Many federal agencies, including the FBI, Border Patrol, and Department of Homeland Security, require applicants to hold a bachelor’s degree. While specific agency training follows after hiring, the homeland security degree program builds the foundation in criminal justice, emergency management, terrorism, and intelligence analysis that federal agencies seek. Students should research specific agency requirements and maintain strong academic performance.
How long does completing a homeland security degree take?
The Bachelor of Arts in Homeland Security: Approximately 40 months or 4 years. Students who transfer credits from previous college coursework may complete their bachelor’s degree faster. Contact the admissions team for a personalized timeline based on your situation.
How much does earning this degree cost?
Tuition at Keiser University varies by degree program. Keiser offers financial aid, military and veteran benefits, scholarships, and tuition reimbursement to those who qualify. For more detailed cost information, please contact an admissions advisor. Get more information about Keiser University’s tuition and costs.
What courses stand out in the bachelor's program?
The Bachelor of Arts in Homeland Security includes distinctive courses such as:
- Bio Terrorism: Hazardous Materials and Weapons of Mass Destruction
- Introduction to Cyber-Terrorism
- Domestic & International Terrorism
- Critical Infrastructure Protection
- Catastrophic Event Response Planning
- Homeland Security Threat Strategy
- Recognition and Investigation of Terrorism
- Tactical Communications
- Emergency Planning and Security Measures I and II
These specialized courses, combined with foundational study in criminal justice, constitutional law, and emergency management, prepare students for the complex challenges they’ll face in homeland security careers. The curriculum balances theoretical knowledge with practical applications used by professionals in the field.
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Location
Accreditation
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. While the Homeland Security BA program does not require specialized programmatic accreditation, the program offers a robust curriculum designed to equip students with knowledge and real world skills needed for successful careers in homeland security, emergency management, and related fields. In addition, 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 degrees for graduate programs and employers. This accreditation signifies that the institution adheres to standards that ensure educational quality and institutional effectiveness.
Required Courses
| Name | Credits |
|---|---|
| Homeland Security Major Courses – Lower Level (24.0 credit hours) | |
| Introduction to Criminal Justice | 3 |
| Introduction to Homeland Security | 3 |
| Constituional Law For the H.S. Professional | 3 |
| Bio Terrorism: Hazardous Material & Weapons of Mass Destruction | 3 |
| Domestic & International Terrorism | 3 |
| Introduction to Cyber-Terrorism | 3 |
| Emergency Planning & Security Measures I | 3 |
| Organizing the War on Terrorism | 3 |
| Subtotal | 24 |
| General Education Courses (36.0 credit hours) | |
| American History Pre 1876 | 3 |
| American History Since 1876 | 3 |
| Political Science | 3 |
| Introduction to Psychology | 3 |
| Sociology | 3 |
| Subtotal | 15 |
| Communications (3.0 credit hours) | |
| Speech Communications | 3 |
| Subtotal | 3 |
| Computers (3.0 credit hours) | |
| Introduction to Computers | 3 |
| Subtotal | 3 |
| Economics (3.0 credit hours) | |
| Microeconomics | 3 |
| Macroeconomics | 3 |
| Subtotal | 6 |
| English (6.0 credit hours) | |
| English Composition I | 3 |
| English Composition II | 3 |
| Subtotal | 6 |
| Humanities/Fine Arts (3.0 credit hours) | |
| American Literature | 3 |
| English Literature | 3 |
| Subtotal | 6 |
| Mathematics (6.0 credit hours) | |
| College Algebra | 3 |
| College Mathematics | 3 |
| Applications of Mathematics | 3 |
| Statistics (required) | 3 |
| Subtotal | 12 |
| Natural Science (6.0 credit hours) | |
| General Biology | 3 |
| General Biology Laboratory | 1 |
| Advanced Biology | 3 |
| Advanced Biology Laboratory | 1 |
| Environmental Science | 3 |
| Subtotal | 11 |
| Upper Division Homeland Security Courses (42.0 credit hours) | |
| Preparation and Response for Terrorism | 3 |
| Recognition and Investigation of Terrorism | 3 |
| Issues in Disaster Response | 3 |
| Emergency Planning and Security Measures II | 3 |
| Homeland Security Policy and Law | 3 |
| Tactical Communications | 3 |
| Catastrophic Event Response Planning | 3 |
| Critical Infrastructure Protection | 3 |
| Homeland Security Threat Strategy | 3 |
| Current Topics in Public Safety / Capstone | 3 |
| Introduction to Management and Organizational Behavior | 3 |
| Cross-Cultural Management | 3 |
| Criminal Justice Managment | 3 |
| Terrorism | 3 |
| Subtotal | 42 |
| Upper Division General Education Courses (18.0 credit hours) | |
| Computers In Criminal Justice | 3 |
| Critical Thinking | 3 |
| Sociology of the Urban Community | 3 |
| Professional Writing | 3 |
| Intermediate Statistics | 3 |
| Workforce Diversity | 3 |
| Subtotal | 18 |
| Program Total | 146 |
