Guide to the associate degree in homeland security

Accredited colleges and universities offer associate degree training in homeland security. Learn more about the degree itself and what it can mean for your career.

Why earn an associate degree in homeland security?

An associate degree in homeland security gives you the targeted base of knowledge you need to find employment in many competitive industries, both government and private. Working in homeland security and related careers means working in your community to keep people safe against outside threats.

While some federal law enforcement agencies require a bachelor's degree and related work experience, an associate degree in homeland security can get you started. Many bachelor's degree-granting schools allow students to transfer credits from an associate degree program; be sure to research your options before committing to a particular program.

Homeland security careers can be found in U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, U.S. Secret Service, Federal Protective Service, Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, Transportation Security Administration, and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Explore associate degree programs in homeland security and find out where an education can fit into your career future.

Careers for homeland security degree graduates

An associate degree in homeland security can be your first step towards more education and federal career opportunities with a bachelor's degree, or it could meet minimum requirements for a range of rewarding careers.

For example, state and local police officers are often encouraged to have some law enforcement training after high school, and an associate degree in homeland security may be considered ideal. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), police and sheriff's patrol officers earned mean annual wages of $55,180 in 2009.

Qualifying to work as a fish and game warden requires at least two years of full-time study in all states. Research your local state requirements for more detailed information. The BLS reports that fish and game wardens earned mean annual wages of $54,950 in 2009.

Customs and border protection workers earned average wages of $92,558 in 2009, according to the BLS. With many careers in customs requiring at least a bachelor's degree, an associate homeland security degree can be a great start towards a rewarding career.

Pursue an online associate degree in homeland security

Make the commitment to pursue a degree without putting your career and family life on hold with an online associate degree in homeland security. Distance learning gives you the power to prioritize your schooling into your schedule, logging on from anywhere to complete your education.

Homeland security degree programs will typically include coursework in infrastructure and international security issues, foundations of information system security, global public management, antiterrorism and more. Some schools will offer an internship requirement, giving you hands-on training in the field.

Wondering how you'll pay for an associate degree? Consider your financial aid options, including federal and state grants, loans, and scholarships designed to help take some of the stress out of paying for a homeland security degree. Explore your homeland security degree options today.

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