online masters homeland securityIn this article, we profile the top 30 most affordable online master’s in homeland security programs.

Since September 2001, homeland security has emerged as a new and important industry, and jobs have grown rapidly since. Emergency preparedness, homeland defense, and security encompass the broad range of homeland security job duties. With the growing trend and favorable job outlook, an increasing number of schools offer programs designed to equip students for careers as homeland security agents, analysts, and response technicians. Now, master’s in homeland security online programs are available at some of the nation’s top ranked colleges and universities.

Top 30 Affordable Online Master’s in Homeland Security Programs Methodology

We looked at 207 colleges and universities listed by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) College Navigator that offered master’s in homeland security online degrees. We narrowed our selection of schools by choosing only accredited programs. We then applied the following criteria to further narrow our pool of schools: graduate tuition and fees as listed by College Navigator of less than $31,000 per year, and program or school rankings with a major publication like U.S. News and World Report. We then listed schools in order of raw affordability.

Below is our list of the top 30 most affordable master’s in homeland security online programs.

#30 – LIU Riverhead

Online Master’s in Homeland Security Management

Riverhead, New York

Website

LIU - master's in homeland security online
Fully accredited – LIU Riverhead’s master’s in homeland security online degree program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $30,664

Long Island University Riverhead offers a fully accredited master’s in homeland security online through its Homeland Security and Terrorism Institute (HSTI). The program is appropriate for both current and aspiring homeland security professionals seeking a rigorous graduate program combined with the convenience and flexibility of online learning. Admission requirements to the 30-credit program include bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA, copies of transcripts from all institutions attended, two letters of recommendation, and personal statement. Core classes include constitutional issues in homeland security management, domestic and international terrorism, homeland security and the private sector, and the intelligence function in homeland security management.

#29 – Pace University

Online Master’s in Management for Public Safety and Homeland Security Professionals

New York, New York

Website

Pace University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Homeland Security Online Programs + FAQ
The master’s in homeland security online program at Pace University is ranked and accredited.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $30,550

Through its Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, Pace University offers one of the most affordable online degree programs in homeland security. The program is a natural fit for students seeking the rigor of an accredited graduate program combined with the flexibility and convenience of distance education. Pace’s program is geared towards current homeland and security professionals or individuals seeking to make a career change. The entire program is offered online and requires no campus visits, although students are certainly welcome. Curriculum was developed in partnership with the Center for Homeland Security and Defense and reflects current industry needs as stated by employers. Courses include introduction to homeland security, public sector policy analysis and program evaluation, public sector strategic planning and budgeting, and U.S. constitutional and ethical issues. U.S. News and World Report ranks Pace #177 in national universities.

#28 – Monmouth University

Online Master’s in Criminal Justice with Homeland Security Track

West Long Branch, New Jersey

Website

Monmouth University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master's in Homeland Security Online Programs
Ranked and accredited – Monmouth University’s master’s in homeland security online.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $25,824

Monmouth University offers an online master’s in homeland security for students seeking graduate level training and education as part of a distance learning degree. Monmouth is a partner with the Center for Homeland Defense and Security at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California and designed the coursework in partnership. The program is a hybrid design where students take 15 criminal justice credits in a traditional classroom and 15 homeland security courses online. Coursework includes applied data analysis in criminal justice, evaluation strategies for criminal justice, interdisciplinary approach to homeland security, and terrorism causes and consequences. U.S. News and World Report ranks Monmouth #28 in regional universities North.

#27 – Northeastern University

Online Master’s in Homeland Security

Boston, Massachusetts

Website

Northeastern University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Homeland Security Online Programs + FAQ
The master’s in homeland security online program at Northeastern University is ranked and accredited.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $23,688

Northeastern University offers a master’s in homeland security online for current or aspiring homeland security professionals who seek the convenience of online education combined with a rigorous curriculum from a top ranked institution. Students can choose from four concentrations such as geospatial services for homeland security, organization and infrastructure continuity, port security, and emergency management. The program also affords students the opportunity to work with the ALERT Center (Awareness and Localization of Explosives-Related Threats). Students who graduated from the National Guard Bureau Homeland Security Institute will receive 12 credits towards the degree. U.S. News and World Report ranks Northeastern University #44 in national universities.

#26 – Pennsylvania State University

Online Master’s in Homeland Security

University Park, Pennsylvania

Website

Pennsylvania State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Homeland Security Online Programs + FAQ
Penn State’s master’s in homeland security online program consists of 33 credits.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $20,974

Pennsylvania State University offers one of the most affordable online homeland security programs at the graduate level. The 33-credit program is delivered exclusively online and is an excellent choice for busy working professionals who need the convenience and flexibility of distance education. The program takes a global perspective of homeland security, utilizing the latest research on how to combat and decrease threats. The curriculum is designed to teach knowledge and skills needed on the job. Students can choose from a wide variety of specializations, including agricultural biosecurity and food defense, counterterrorism, cyber threat analytics and prevention, geospatial intelligence, information security and forensics, and public health preparedness. U.S. News and World Report ranks Penn State #59 in national universities.

#25 – Excelsior College

Online Master’s in Criminal Justice Homeland Security and Emergency Management

Albany, New York

Website

Excelsior College - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Homeland Security Online Programs + FAQ
No GRE required for the master’s in homeland security online degree at Excelsior College.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $19,350

Excelsior College offers one of the most affordable online degree programs in homeland security designed specifically for working adults who are place-bound or need the flexibility of an online degree allowing them to keep their current obligations. The program is 30 credits and includes a generous transfer credit policy where students can transfer up to 15 credits. Students take 18 credits of core courses and 9 concentration credits. Courses include criminal justice theory and policy, legal and ethical issues in criminal justice, overview of homeland security and emergency management, risk assessment in homeland security, and terrorism and counter terrorism. Application requirements include a bachelor’s degree from accredited institution, and transcripts. The GRE is not required.

#24 – Southern New Hampshire University

Online Master’s in Criminal Justice Concentration in Counterterrorism and Homeland Security

Manchester, New Hampshire

Website

Southern New Hampshire University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Homeland Security Online Programs + FAQ
Ranked and affordable – Southern New Hampshire University’s master’s in homeland security online.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,810

Southern New Hampshire University offers an affordable master’s in homeland security online designed for busy professionals seeking to leverage a graduate degree to improve their career trajectory. The program is designed to teach and train students the knowledge and skills needed for homeland security industry jobs. Students can choose from two concentrations, including public safety administration and advanced counterterrorism and homeland security. Courses include assessing organizational performance, critical issues in the criminal justice system, data driven decision-making in criminal justice, and terrorist techniques and counterterrorism. U.S. News and World Report ranks Southern New Hampshire #112 in regional universities North and #1 in most innovative schools.

#23 – Saint Joseph’s University

Online Master’s in Criminal Justice Homeland Security Option

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Website

Saint Joseph's University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Homeland Security Online Programs + FAQ
30-36 credits – Saint Joseph’s master’s in homeland security online is top ranked.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,401

Saint Joseph’s University offers an online master’s in homeland security for individuals seeking to leverage a graduate degree into career opportunities in the homeland and safety sectors. Graduates have gone on to successful careers in homeland security, emergency preparedness, criminal justice, and more. Graduates are prepared to work in both the public and private sectors at the highest levels. The degree ranges from 30-36 credits with concentrations in behavior analysis, behavior management, federal law enforcement, homeland security, and intelligence and crime analysis. Courses may include homeland security, risk assessment, sociology of disasters, and terrorism threats and strategy. U.S. News and World Report ranks St. Joseph’s #12 in regional universities North.

#22 – California University of Pennsylvania

Online Master’s in Legal Studies Homeland Security Option

California, Pennsylvania

Website

California University of Pennsylvania - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Homeland Security Online Programs + FAQ
No residency requirements – California University of Pennsylvania’s master’s in homeland security online.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,203

California University of Pennsylvania offers one of the most affordable online homeland security programs for students seeking a graduate distance learning degree that allows them to keep their current obligations. The program is delivered entirely online with no residency requirements. Courses may include domestic extremism in the United States, intelligence practice in homeland security, law and ethics, and law and public policy. Admission requirements include bachelor’s degree with 3.0 minimum GPA, unofficial transcripts, resume with contact information of three professional references, and 500-word essay. U.S. News and World Report ranks California University of Pennsylvania #142 in its 2019 cohort of regional universities North.

#21 – University of Massachusetts

Online Master’s in Security Studies

Lowell, Massachusetts

Website

University of Massachusetts - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Homeland Security Online Programs + FAQ
UMASS Lowell offers a master’s in homeland security online program that requires the GRE for admission.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,040

The University of Massachusetts at Lowell offers one of the most affordable online degree programs in homeland security for individuals seeking upward career mobility within the homeland security and defense sector. The curriculum was developed by homeland security experts with years of research and teaching experience along with advanced industry experience working in the field. Coursework combines theoretical and practical knowledge needed to effectively perform job duties and manage teams. Courses may include comparative terrorism and counterterrorism, crisis and emergency management, intelligence analysis policy and practice, and scientific and technological dimensions of national security. Admission requirements include bachelor degree with 3.0 GPA, statement of purpose, three letters of support, and official GRE or MAT scores. UMass Lowell is ranked #157 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.

#20 – National University

Online Master’s in Homeland Security and Emergency Management

La Jolla, California

Website

National University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Homeland Security Online Programs + FAQ
Only 12 courses – National University’s master’s in homeland security online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,976

National University offers one of the top online homeland security programs for individuals seeking a distance graduate degree where they are able to keep their current obligations while attending school. The program is 54 credits (12 courses) that include classes such as communication and security, fundamentals of recovery, global lessons in security, leading complex environments, and policies of homeland security. A total of 13.5 credits can be transferred from another institution on approval. The curriculum focuses on teaching knowledge and skills needed for top management and field positions. U.S. News and World Report includes National University in its 2019 cohort of regional universities West.

#19 – Colorado Technical University

Online Master’s in Criminal Justice Homeland Security

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Website

Colorado Technical University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Homeland Security Online Programs + FAQ
The master’s in homeland security online program at Colorado Tech offers an affordable pathway to the degree.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,803

Colorado Technical University offers an online master’s in homeland security for students seeking advanced teaching and training within various criminal justice contexts including homeland security, law enforcement, and more. The program is a total of 48 credits divided into 4 credit classes such as advanced review of criminal justice, criminology and public policy, homeland security and government, and terrorism and homeland security management. The program blends current research and skills needed to succeed on the job. Graduates have gone on to work in both the public and private sectors including border patrol, homeland security, emergency preparedness, cyber security, and military.

#18 – Virginia Commonwealth University

Online Master’s in Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness

Richmond, Virginia

Website

Virginia Commonwealth University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Homeland Security Online Programs + FAQ
The master’s in homeland security online program at Virginia Commonwealth University is ranked and affordable.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,633

Virginia Commonwealth University offers one of the top value homeland security online degree programs in the United States. The 36-credit program is primarily a distance learning degree and can be attended part-time or full-time. The curriculum focuses on domestic and international terrorist threats as well as natural disasters. Students learn all aspects of the industry including preparation, mitigation, and policy analysis and implementation. The program takes an interdisciplinary approach to give students a broad perspective to problem solving. Offered through the Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs, coursework includes emergency management response planning and incident command, government industry and community strategic planning, law enforcement policy and judicial precedent, and research methods for government and public affairs. U.S. News and World Report ranks VCU #157 in national universities.

#17 – Tiffin University

Online Master’s in Criminal Justice Concentration in Homeland Security

Tiffin, Ohio

Website

Tiffin University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Homeland Security Online Programs + FAQ
Tiffin University’s master’s in homeland security online program blends research with real world experience.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,900

Tiffin University offers one of the most affordable homeland security online degree programs for students seeking additional training and education in the homeland security field. The program is taught by leading faculty with years of research and real-world experience. The program combines theory and praxis, in that students learn the theoretical underpinnings of homeland security and criminal justice that enable them to make smart decisions on the job that mitigate security threats and natural disasters. Curriculum includes cyber security and technology in homeland security, contemporary criminal justice issues and trends, legal and ethical issues in homeland security, and practical application of policy in homeland security. Tiffin is ranked #128 in regional universities Midwest by U.S. News and World Report.

#16 – Thomas Edison State University

Online Master’s in Homeland Security

Trenton, New Jersey

Website

Thomas Edison State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Homeland Security Online Programs + FAQ
36 credits and fully online – Thomas Edison State’s master’s in homeland security online degree.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,024

Thomas Edison State University offers one of the most cost-efficient online degree programs in homeland security for students looking for an excellent return on their investment. The program includes 36 credits and is offered completely online, allowing students to keep their current professional and personal obligations while completing a graduate degree. Coursework includes administration and finance for security professionals, domestic and global intelligence for security management, natural disasters and search planning, the psychology and sociology of disaster, and terrorism and homeland security in the U.S. Thomas Edison State is accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education and was established by the New Jersey Board of Higher Education on July 1, 1972.

#15 – Arizona State University

Online Master’s in Emergency Management and Homeland Security

Tempe, Arizona

Website

Arizona State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Homeland Security Online Programs + FAQ
Only 11 courses – ASU’s master’s in homeland security online degree program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,938

Arizona State University provides a master’s in homeland security online consisting of 33 credits grouped into 11 courses. Classes include applied data analysis in criminal justice, geographic information systems and analysis, information technology in emergency management, and urban design for safe and healthy cities. The program is delivered via the College of Public Service and Community Solutions and requires students have a 3.0 undergraduate GPA, a bachelor’s degree in a related discipline, related work experience of two or more years, two letters of recommendation, and a personal statement when applying. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical skill-based coursework students need to be successful on the job. Areas of concentration include biosecurity and threat management, community resilience, emergency management, and homeland security. ASU is ranked #115 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.

#14 – Mississippi College

Online Master’s in Homeland Security

Clinton, Mississippi

Website

Mississippi College - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Homeland Security Online Programs + FAQ
Ranked and accredited – the master’s in homeland security online program at Mississippi College.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,222

Mississippi College provides one of the top value online homeland security programs delivered entirely online. The program is constructed to provide students with the knowledge and skills to compete for top jobs in the public, private, and non-profit sectors of the homeland security industry. The program includes a broad-based curriculum with interdisciplinary perspectives, giving the students a comprehensive and well-rounded view. Mississippi College is also one of the few institutions to interweave Christian principles into coursework. Classes include grant writing for homeland security, introduction to homeland security, legal aspects of criminal justice, and special issues in homeland security. Mississippi College is ranked #32 in regional universities South by U.S. News and World Report.

#13 – Bellevue University

Online Master’s in Security Science

Bellevue, Nebraska

Website

Bellevue University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Homeland Security Online Programs + FAQ
The master’s in homeland security online program at Bellevue University is designed for working students.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,770

Bellevue University provides an online master’s in homeland security for students seeking careers in law enforcement, crime prevention, threat assessment, public safety, and criminal justice. The curriculum offers a balance of theory and practitioner-based learning to provide students with practical skill-sets and reasoning within the context of homeland security issues. In the security program, students will delve into complex case studies to apply best practices needed to succeed on the job. Courses include critical infrastructure analysis and strategies, emergency preparedness and management, homeland security principles and practices, principles and theories of security management, and vulnerability assessment and risk analysis. Bellevue is recognized in the U.S. News and World Report cohort of best regional universities Midwest.

#12 – Anna Maria College

Online Master’s in Public Administration: Homeland Security Concentration

Paxton, Massachusetts

Website

Anna Maria College - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Homeland Security Online Programs + FAQ
Affordable and ranked – Anna Maria College’s master’s in homeland security online degree program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,530

Anna Maria College offers one of the top value homeland security online degree programs in country that prepares students for top positions in the homeland security field. The program is delivered entirely online, making it an excellent option for place bound or working professionals who want to maintain their current obligations while attending graduate school. The homeland security option of the public administration degree includes courses such as foundations of homeland security, international threat and policy analysis, and partnership for homeland security. Graduates go on to work for such agencies as The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Central Intelligence Agency, and more. Anna Maria College is ranked #142 in regional universities North by U.S. News and World Report.

#11 – Eastern Kentucky University

Online Master’s in Safety with Concentration in Homeland Security

Richmond, Kentucky

Website

Eastern Kentucky University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Homeland Security Online Programs + FAQ
Accredited and highly affordable – EKU’s master’s in homeland security online program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,270

Eastern Kentucky University provides students with a master’s in homeland security online. It is a plausible option for those seeking an affordable graduate degree delivered entirely online. The majority of students are working professionals seeking increased education while maintaining their current obligations. The degree program provides both depth and breadth of knowledge to those seeking a career path or promotion in national safety. Eastern Kentucky University is accredited by The Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. U.S. News and World Report ranks Eastern Kentucky University #76 in regional universities South for its recently published 2019 cohort of institutions.

#10 – Towson University

Online Master’s in Integrated Homeland Security Management

Towson, Maryland

Website

Towson University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Homeland Security Online Programs + FAQ
The master’s in homeland security online degree program at Towson University is for working students.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,504

Towson University offers one of the most affordable homeland security online degree programs for current practitioners seeking upward career mobility through increased education. The program is an excellent option for those seeking to keep their current commitments while attending graduate school. In addition to the core curriculum, students can choose an area of concentration such as health preparedness, information assurance, and security policy. Admission requirements include three-years of post bachelor’s degree work experience in a related field, bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, 3.0 minimum GPA, resume, statement of purpose, three-page essay discussing a current homeland security policy response, and two reference letters. Towson is ranked #50 in regional universities North by U.S. News and World Report.

#9 – Liberty University

Online Master’s in Criminal Justice with Specialization in Homeland Security

Lynchburg, Virginia

Website

Liberty University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Homeland Security Online Programs + FAQ
Liberty University offers a master’s in criminal justice with a specialization in homeland security. All online!

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,723

Liberty University offers one of the top value online degree programs in homeland security due to its affordable tuition and flexible online delivery. The curriculum provides students with a wide breadth of criminal justice theory and skills along with specific knowledge through a specialization in forensic psychology, homeland security, or public administration. Homeland security courses may include administration of justice organizations, homeland security, homeland security organization and administration, and legal issues in homeland security. The 36-credit program is delivered via 8-week courses and is entirely online. Students can finish in as little as 1.5 years. Liberty University ranks #230 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.

#8 – University of Maryland University College

Online Master’s in Homeland Security Management

Adelphi, Maryland

Website

University of Maryland University College - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Homeland Security Online Programs + FAQ
Only 36 credits – University of Maryland’s University College – master’s in homeland security online degree.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,514

University of Maryland University College offers an online master’s in homeland security as part of its graduate management degree program. The program focuses on management knowledge and skills within the context of homeland security. Students learn high-level skills such as risk assessment, operational recovery, critical infrastructure analysis, and more. Courses may include biosecurity and bioterrorism, concepts in homeland security, information technology in emergency management, and resilience planning and preparedness for disaster response and recovery. The entire degree consists of 36 credits, with UMUC accepting up to six transfer credits from other programs and institutions upon approval. UMUC is recognized in the 2019 cohort of regional universities North by U.S. News and World Report.

#7 – Northwestern State University of Louisiana

Online Master’s in Homeland Security

Natchitoches, Louisiana

Website

Northwestern State University of Louisiana - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Homeland Security Online Programs + FAQ
The master’s in homeland security online program at Northwestern State University offers a fully ranked and accredited degree.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,487

Northwestern State University of Louisiana offers one of the most affordable online homeland security programs from an accredited institution for students seeking a rigorous graduate education. The program offers a global worldview as it pertains to emerging security threats both domestic and foreign. Featured courses include constitutional issues and global security, domestic terrorism prevention and analysis, network security and cyber-terrorism, and research design and methods in homeland security. The program is appropriate for current or aspiring homeland security professionals. Students without a related degree or background in the discipline are encouraged to apply and must take HS5050 Homeland Security during their first year. NSULA is ranked #107 in regional universities South by U.S. News and World Report.

#6 – Wilmington University

Online Master’s in Homeland Security

New Castle, Delaware

Website

Wilmington University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Homeland Security Online Programs + FAQ
Entirely online – the master’s in homeland security at Wilmington University is ideally designed for working students.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,483

Wilmington University offers one of the most cost-efficient and value driven online degree programs in homeland security accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The program is consistently a top choice among working professionals such as military and law enforcement along with a wide variety of other occupational categories. The program is delivered entirely online, making it both flexible and convenient. Students can choose from a specific specialization including organizational leadership and safety and security. Courses may include analysis of decision-making, border and transportation security, fundamentals of bioterrorism, leadership development and change management, and strategy in organizations. Wilmington University ranks #230 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.

#5 – Sam Houston State University

Online Master’s in Homeland Security

Huntsville, Texas

Website

Sam Houston State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Homeland Security Online Programs + FAQ
Top ranked program! Sam Houston State University’s master’s in homeland security online.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,575

Sam Houston State University offers one of the top ranked homeland security online degree programs for individuals seeking affordable tuition and the flexibility of a distance learning degree. The 36-credit program allows students to matriculate in fall or spring. Application components include an undergraduate degree from a related field, transcripts, three letters of recommendation from undergraduate professors, current resume, and an essay. Courses may include foundations of homeland security, global perspective in homeland security, law and ethics in homeland security, and research methods in homeland security studies. U.S. News and World Report ranks Sam Houston State #1 in best online graduate criminal justice programs.

#4 – American Public University System

Online Master’s in Homeland Security

Charles Town, West Virginia

Website

American Public University System - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Homeland Security Online Programs + FAQ
APU’s master’s in homeland security online program is highly affordable.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,600

American Public University System is one of the most affordable online homeland security programs with tuition costing $350 per credit. The program consists of 36 credits with the ability to transfer up to 15 credits from another program or institution upon approval. The degree can be finished in as little as two years with all courses being delivered online on a monthly basis. Concentrations include business, cyber, intelligence studies, counter-terrorism studies, emergency management and public health, transportation security, and criminal justice. Students can also choose a general option. Featured courses include domestic terrorism and extremist groups, emergency and disaster planning and management, ethical challenges in the intelligence community, and weapons of mass destruction and the new terrorism.

#3 – Angelo State University

Online Master’s in Homeland Security

San Angelo, Texas

Website

Angelo State University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Homeland Security Online Programs + FAQ
No GRE for admission to Angelo State University’s master’s in homeland security online degree program.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,507

Angelo State University is one of the top homeland security online degree programs that combines rigorous and flexible curriculum with affordable tuition rates. The program combines current homeland security research with best practices needed to succeed out in the field. This combination creates a practitioner able to make critical data-driven decisions concerning issues such as terrorism, natural disasters, policy, and law. Admission requirements include a minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA or 3.0 GPA in last 60 hours, at least two letters of recommendation, and an essay of no more than 750 words discussing an important issue in homeland security. The GRE is not required. Angelo State is ranked #96 in regional universities Midwest.

#2 – Arkansas Tech University

Online Master’s in Emergency Management and Homeland Security

Russellville, Arkansas

Website

Arkansas Tech University - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Homeland Security Online Programs + FAQ
Arkansas Tech University’s online master’s in homeland security includes an emphasis in emergency management.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,372

Arkansas Tech University offers an online master’s in homeland security that provides students with an interdisciplinary perspective of homeland security and emergency management that infuses ideas from the fields of sociology, public policy, economics, political science, criminal justice, and psychology. The program is accredited by the Foundation of Higher Education Accreditation. Featured courses include applied data analysis, fundamentals of homeland security, principles of emergency management, and technology for comprehensive emergency management. Admission requirements include bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, undergraduate cumulative GPA of at least 3.0, 500-word letter of intent, and resume. ATU is ranked #102 in regional universities South by U.S. News and World Report.

#1 – Trident University International

Online Master’s in Homeland Security

Cypress, California

Website

Trident University International - Top 30 Most Affordable Master’s in Homeland Security Online Programs + FAQ
Trident University is our #1 most affordable school for a master’s in homeland security online degree.

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,120

Trident University offers a master’s in homeland security online combining affordable graduate education with the convenience and flexibility of distance learning. Because the entire curriculum is delivered online, the program is a top choice for busy working professionals. The entire scope of the curriculum was developed in accordance with the current Department of Homeland Security objectives in mind, which allows graduates to be fully prepared for the challenges and opportunities that await them in the field. In addition to core classes, students can choose concentrations in cyber security, emergency and disaster management, leadership, and logistics. Admission requirements include 2.5 undergraduate GPA, bachelor’s degree, and transcripts. The GRE, MAT, or GMAT is not required.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can I do with a master’s in homeland security online degree?

Individuals who work in homeland security are responsible for anticipating, preparing for, preventing, and responding to emergencies and pandemics that impact populations. Many homeland security jobs are at the state, federal, or local government level. Occupations vary depending on level of education, but most management or leadership roles call for advanced degrees, such as the master’s in homeland security online degree.

Within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, many occupations exist. A master’s in homeland security online degree might lead you to jobs within the following departments: citizenship and immigration services, customs and border protection, federal emergency management, information analysis, transportation and security administration, or the U.S. Secret Service. All departments have needs for homeland security analysts and specialists.

Emergency management directors and supervisors are among positions for individuals with master’s degrees in homeland security and/or emergency preparedness. These individuals work at the local, state, or federal level to ensure communities prepare for and respond to natural, technological, or other types of disasters. The kinds of disasters that emergency management directors focus their attention on vary. Directors in California may emphasize disaster work in wildfires while those in Florida may focus on hurricane preparedness.

With a master’s in homeland security online degree and solid people skills, the job opportunities in this growing field are favorable.

What is the career outlook for individuals with a master’s in homeland security online degree?

Job prospects in the growing field of homeland security have been favorable since 2001. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average employment growth rate for information security analysts is projected to increase 28 percent over the next several years. The average employment of emergency management directors is projected to grow by eight percent, slightly higher than the growth rate for all other occupations.

A favorable job outlook is expected. As more workers are needed to prepare for and respond to emergencies, filling these positions will be a top priority. Most of the job openings will be with local, state, and federal agencies. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has grown into one of the largest federal government agencies in the country and currently employees nearly 230,000 people.

Individuals with a master’s degree, such as the master’s in homeland security online degree, should find plenty of job prospects over the next ten years. Retirements over the next decade are expected to provide job opportunities and present new openings for qualified candidates. Applicants with advanced degrees and work experience in an emergency management role will have the best job prospects.

How much money do individuals with a master’s in homeland security online degree make?

The average security analyst salary, according to PayScale–a global compensation research organization–is $67,063. The lowest ten percent earned $42,313, and the highest ten percent earned $100,653. Location and experience impact earnings. Also, individuals with more education, such as a master’s in homeland security online degree, earn higher wages than those with only a bachelor’s degree.

According to PayScale, individuals with more experience earn a higher compensation. If you are just starting out as a homeland security specialist or security analyst, you will make less than your seasoned colleagues. An entry-level security analyst with less than five years of experience can expect an average compensation of $61,000. This number includes any bonuses or overtime pay. Individuals with mid-career experience, such as five to ten years, can expect to earn an average compensation of $79,000 per year. Experienced security analysts with employees and ten to twenty years of experience can expect to earn $88,000.

Security analysts and homeland security specialists generally earn more with a master’s degree than those with a bachelor’s degree. Also, certification in specialized areas of cybersecurity, management, and technology can improve earnings. Individuals with an earned master’s degree can negotiate for higher salaries when seeking advancement within an organization.

How long does it take to earn a master’s in homeland security online degree?

The master’s in homeland security online degree generally takes 18 to 24 months, on average, from start to finish. Most programs, such as those profiled on our list, require 30 to 36 credits. To complete the required credit load, two years of schooling is necessary. There are factors that can either increase the length of time needed to finish the degree or decrease it.

Full-time enrollment typically shortens the length of time needed to complete a master’s in homeland security online degree. A full-time course load allows students to work at an accelerated pace, taking more than one class at a time. Also, accelerated programs shorten the average time it takes to complete the master’s degree. Some accelerated programs offer six to eight-week classes and allow students to take two classes at a time. Accelerated programs are designed for completion in 12 to 20 months.

Part-time enrollment offers the most flexibility and is ideal for students with outside obligations, such as work and family. Part-time classes allow students to work at their own pace, stretching out time to complete the degree. In general, part-time enrollment takes at least two years to complete a master’s in homeland security online degree.

What are the admission requirements for a master’s in homeland security online degree?

Admission requirements for a master’s in homeland security online degree vary by schools and programs. In general, most programs require an earned bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university. The undergraduate degree does not need to be in homeland security or a related field. Most master’s in homeland security online degree programs ask that the applicant hold a bachelor’s degree in any discipline.

In addition to the undergraduate degree, a satisfactory undergraduate GPA may be required from some of the top-ranked institutions. Most programs require applicants have an undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or better, but some of the top-ranked programs prefer a higher GPA. If you have an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or better, you are eligible for most all homeland security programs. Of course, additional requirements must also be met.

GRE test scores are not required across the board. Some programs do ask for GRE scores from tests taken within the last five years, though other programs may waive the GRE requirement if a 3.0 undergraduate GPA is met. If you do not want to take the GRE, be sure to look for programs that do not require test scores for admission.

Other admission requirements vary. Letters of recommendation, valid work experience, and writing samples may also be required.

BCO Staff
December 2018

This concludes our list of top 30 most affordable online master’s in homeland security programs.

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