Best Online Bachelor’s in Homeland Security
Updated October 10, 2023
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Homeland security professionals help to protect national security.
They may work in roles such as federal law enforcement officer, cybersecurity specialist, and emergency manager. These career paths offer above-average salaries and advancement opportunities.
An online bachelor's degree in homeland security meets the education requirement for many homeland security jobs. The flexibility and accessibility of an online learning format appeals to working professionals and students with personal responsibilities. Online learners can choose from the best programs in the country without relocating or leaving their current job.
The Best Online Bachelor's in Homeland Security Programs
These rankings include
#1 Best Online Bachelor’s in Homeland Security
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide
Daytona Beach, FL - 4 years
- Online
Students looking for a flexible bachelor's-level education should consider Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide. The private college supports distance learners across 16 online bachelor's programs. Distance learners can enroll in the bachelor of science in homeland security to complete a college degree online.
The program balances rigor with flexibility, proving beneficial to working professionals, busy students, and other learners. Enrollees can also customize their studies by working with an academic advisor.
Undergraduate tuition at the institution costs $9,912. Degree candidates can benefit from scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities.
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 12,828
Total Online Programs: 42
Online Bachelor's Programs: 16
Admission Rate: 62%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Homeland Security
Angelo State University
San Angelo, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Angelo State University supports 4,333 distance learners across 24 fully online programs. Undergraduate students can choose from four online bachelor's degrees, including a bachelor of security studies in border and homeland security. Degree-seekers benefit from flexible study, with the option to enroll full or part time.
Degree candidates complete foundational and advanced coursework relevant to the homeland security field. The program also incorporates general education requirements that strengthen critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Majors choose electives, minors, and concentrations to customize their course of study.
The value of a bachelor's degree is clear. Graduates can increase their job opportunities and earning potential. The institution reports that graduates six years out from their degree earn a median salary of $36,100. The average undergraduate pays $12,169 in tuition and fees yearly. Interested applicants can contact the homeland security department to learn more about admission requirements, application materials, and financial aid opportunities.
Angelo State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 4,333
Total Online Programs: 24
Online Bachelor's Programs: 4
Admission Rate: 77%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#3 Best Online Bachelor’s in Homeland Security
SUNY College of Technology at Canton
Canton, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
As a leader in online education, SUNY College of Technology at Canton supports 2,072 distance learners across 18 remote programs. Undergraduate students from across the globe can pursue one of the college's 12 fully online bachelor's degrees. The bachelor's in homeland security is an attractive option for students seeking to advance in the homeland security field. This program offers customization to help students earn a degree that meets their needs.
Enrollees attend industry-relevant lectures while completing homeland security-specific coursework. Degree-seekers also attend general education classes to gain a well-rounded education. Learners can choose electives, minors, and degree concentrations.
Bachelor's degree-holders can increase their job opportunities and earning potential. The institution reports a median salary of $31,500 earned by graduates six years after completing their studies. Learners typically pay $13,285 for tuition and fees, on average, per year. To learn more about funding opportunities and eligibility requirements, students should contact the financial aid office.
SUNY College of Technology at Canton at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 2,072
Total Online Programs: 18
Online Bachelor's Programs: 12
Admission Rate: 85%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#4 Best Online Bachelor’s in Homeland Security
Eastern Kentucky University
Richmond, KY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Looking to earn a flexible online degree in homeland security? Consider Eastern Kentucky University. The college offers 17 online bachelor's degrees, reaching 6,661 distance learners worldwide. From its campus in Richmond, the school offers an online bachelor's in homeland security. Working professionals and busy students benefit from the program's flexible study options and class customization.
Enrollees complete both foundational and advanced coursework, granting them the knowledge and skills needed to advance in the field. Learners can customize their studies by working with their academic advisor to choose electives, minors, and degree concentrations.
A bachelor's degree enables graduates to access higher-paying jobs and more employment opportunities. The college notes a median salary of $32,700 for graduates six years after finishing their studies. Undergraduate students eligible for financial aid can expect to pay $14,674 in tuition and fees, on average. Before applying, prospective students should connect with the homeland security department to learn more about admission requirements and application materials.
Eastern Kentucky University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 6,661
Total Online Programs: 52
Online Bachelor's Programs: 17
Admission Rate: 94%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#5 Best Online Bachelor’s in Homeland Security
Mercer University
Macon, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Mercer University, located in Macon, Georgia, offers 18 online programs. Undergraduates can choose from five online bachelor's degrees at the private not-for-profit institution. Students looking for an individualized education relevant to the homeland security field can pursue the bachelor's in homeland security and emergency management. The program supports students from all walks of life through flexible study options.
Degree-seekers complete foundational and advanced coursework relevant to the homeland security field. In consultation with their academic advisor, students can customize their studies through electives, minors, and concentration areas.
With a bachelor's degree, graduates increase their job opportunities and earning potential. The school reports a median salary of $40,400 for graduates six years after completing a bachelor's degree. Applicants can meet with the homeland security department directly to inquire about admission requirements, application materials, and more.
Mercer University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 2,233
Total Online Programs: 18
Online Bachelor's Programs: 5
Admission Rate: 74%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#6 Best Online Bachelor’s in Homeland Security
DeSales University
Center Valley, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students seeking to enroll in a competitive bachelor's program should consider DeSales University. Located in Center Valley, Pennsylvania, the private institution boasts 11 online bachelor's degrees. The bachelor's in homeland security appeals to students seeking to advance in the field.
The curriculum enables flexible study. Enrollees can modify their coursework by working with their academic advisor. Students can choose electives and minors to supplement their learning.
Undergraduates pay a tuition rate of $37,200 at the school. Distance learners can pursue financial aid opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships, to offset educational expenses.
DeSales University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 1,240
Total Online Programs: 46
Online Bachelor's Programs: 11
Admission Rate: 79%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#7 Best Online Bachelor’s in Homeland Security
Campbell University
Buies Creek, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners seeking competitive online study in homeland security should consider Campbell University in Buies Creek, North Carolina. The institution prides itself on its leadership in online learning, offering 13 online bachelor's degrees. One option includes a bachelor's in homeland security.
The program supports flexible study for students from all walks of life. The curriculum equips learners with industry-relevant knowledge. Electives, minors, and other modifications can benefit students and meet career goals.
Undergraduates pay a tuition rate of $32,380. While at the college, enrollees can explore funding opportunities to apply toward their studies.
Campbell University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 948
Total Online Programs: 28
Online Bachelor's Programs: 13
Admission Rate: 78%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#8 Best Online Bachelor’s in Homeland Security
Marian University
Fond Du Lac, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Marian University, a private not-for-profit college in Fond Du Lac, Wisconsin, offers 52 bachelor's degrees. The bachelor of science in homeland security is one of the college's 13 online bachelor's degrees. The program supports flexible, rigorous study.
By working with their academic advisor, students can modify their course load to suit their needs. Learners can customize their learning through electives, minors, and other modifications.
The school reports undergraduate tuition as $27,500. The school's accreditation status allows degree-seekers to access funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships.
Marian University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 422
Total Online Programs: 25
Online Bachelor's Programs: 13
Admission Rate: 65%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#9 Best Online Bachelor’s in Homeland Security
Keiser University-Ft. Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Florida-based Keiser University-Ft. Lauderdale provides numerous top-tier bachelor's degrees. The private school supports 24 online bachelor's programs. Distance learners interested in the homeland security field can pursue the school's bachelor's in homeland security.
The online program prioritizes flexibility. Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to adjust their course load. Learners can also choose electives and pursue interdisciplinary study to fit career goals.
Tuition costs about $19,808 annually. Students can receive financial aid to offset degree costs.
Keiser University-Ft. Lauderdale at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 9,207
Total Online Programs: 65
Online Bachelor's Programs: 24
Admission Rate: Data not available
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#10 Best Online Bachelor’s in Homeland Security
Mercy College
Dobbs Ferry, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students seeking to enroll in a competitive bachelor's program should consider Mercy College. Located in Dobbs Ferry, New York, the private institution boasts 14 online bachelor's degrees, including a bachelor of science in corporate and homeland security.
The program supports flexible study, meeting the needs of every learner. Enrollees can modify their coursework by working with their academic advisor. Students can also choose a minor and select electives as part of their curriculum.
When calculating degree costs, students should note the current tuition rate of $18,934. Learners can access numerous funding opportunities through the accredited institution.
Mercy College at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 3,814
Total Online Programs: 43
Online Bachelor's Programs: 14
Admission Rate: 82%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
Online Bachelor's in Homeland Security Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Our Methodology
Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.
Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools cannot buy better rankings at TBS.
While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.
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Academics -
Affordability -
Online Enrollment
Data Sources
The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.
The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the College Navigator.
Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from AcademicInfluence.com, subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.
Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology
About Our Ranking Factors
Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.
Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.
We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.
Academics - 75%
Affordability - 15%
Online Enrollment - 10%
In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.
If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through contact page.
We thank you for your readership and trust.
Featured Online Bachelor's in Homeland Security Programs
Choosing a Homeland Security Program
Prospective students should consider several factors when researching online homeland security programs, including accreditation status, course delivery, and concentrations. The top homeland security degree programs hold regional accreditation. Accreditation expands employment, education, and financial aid opportunities for students.
Prospective students should also research course delivery options. Some programs offer asynchronous courses, which don't require set login times, while others require set class times. Students with professional and personal obligations may prefer the flexibility of asynchronous courses.
Additionally, learners should ensure that prospective programs offer concentrations aligned with their career goals. Potential homeland security concentrations include terrorism, emergency management, and cybercrime.
What is Homeland Security?
Homeland security focuses on protecting and defending national security. At the federal level, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) responds to national security threats while working with other government agencies.
Homeland security professionals may investigate potential threats to national security, maintain safe conditions for airplane travel, respond to emergencies and natural disasters, and/or create plans to prepare and prevent national security threats. Specialists in emergency management, for example, design response plans and coordinate recovery efforts after a natural disaster or emergency.
Homeland security professionals need several key skills, such as strong decision-making skills, to effectively respond to emergencies. Critical thinking abilities help homeland security professionals anticipate problems and address national security threats. These professionals also rely on communication skills when interacting with other law enforcement officials and the public. A bachelor's in homeland security builds these skills while providing specialized training in the field.
What Can I Do with a Bachelor's in Homeland Security?
A bachelor's degree in homeland security prepares students to investigate, prevent, and respond to national security threats. Graduates may work for federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies in roles such as police officer and detective. They can also work as emergency managers, intelligence analysts, and cybersecurity specialists. DHS has a hiring program for recent graduates.
During an online bachelor's degree in homeland security, students take courses on topics like emergency management, terrorism response and prevention, and intelligence analysis. Many programs also offer criminal justice classes and specialized coursework in areas like cybercrime and emergency planning.
After earning a bachelor's degree, students can also pursue a master's degree in homeland security to increase their employment opportunities and salary potential.
Related Articles
Homeland Security Jobs
Homeland security jobs include police officer, emergency management director, and federal law enforcement officer. Homeland security professionals may also work in cybersecurity, intelligence, and transportation security. Many of these positions offer above-average salaries and career advancement opportunities.
Police and Detectives
| Median BLS Salary (2020) | $92,970 |
|---|---|
| Projected Job Outlook (2019-2029) | 5% |
Police officers and detectives conduct criminal investigations, respond to emergency calls, and collect evidence at crime scenes. They also interview witnesses and suspects, write case reports, and testify in court.
Emergency Management Directors
| Median BLS Salary (2020) | $76,250 |
|---|---|
| Projected Job Outlook (2019-2029) | 5% |
Emergency management directors lead the response to natural disasters and other emergencies. They coordinate with public safety professionals, elected officials, and government agencies to promote safety. Emergency management directors also create plans and procedures to respond to emergencies.
Transportation Security Screeners
| Median BLS Salary (2020) | $44,300 |
|---|---|
| Projected Job Outlook (2019-2029) | 1% |
Transportation security screeners inspect passengers, baggage, and cargo at airports. They must follow Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulations to promote the safety of air travel. Also called TSA screeners, airport security screeners, and flight security specialists, transportation security screeners operate security equipment, such as x-ray machines and hand wands.
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