How to choose a bachelors in homeland security
Written by: Lisa Fritscher, Edited by: Gabriela Pérez Jordán
Last updated: April 7, 2025
If you are passionate about protecting people, a bachelor's in homeland security might be right for you. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security is a broad federal agency encompassing more than 20 federal departments, including Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Secret Service. If you're interested in a career in these departments, read on for a deep dive into how to choose a bachelor's in homeland security program.
Guide to choosing a bachelor's degree in homeland security
Whichever bachelor's in homeland security interests you, make sure you choose a school that is institutionally accredited. If you want to focus on cybersecurity, you might also look into which programs have been designated as National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity (CAE-C) by the National Security Agency.
Follow these steps to choose the right program for you:
Look at concentration options
If you know which area of homeland security you want to pursue, consider programs that offer a related concentration. For example, you might picture yourself joining a counterterrorism task force, responding to national disasters, or protecting our nation's infrastructure from hackers. Although a bachelor's in homeland security is largely transferrable to any department, choosing a related concentration can help you become more competitive in your preferred area. Concentrations include:
- Counterterrorism
- Cybersecurity
- Emergency management
- International relations
Consider the program length
A bachelor's in homeland security is typically a four-year program when you select one concentration and attend full time. However, if you study part time, your degree program may take 5-6 years to complete. Alternatively, you can graduate more quickly if you possess transfer credits or choose an accelerated program. Consider your specific needs and goals.
Determine the costs
Each school sets its own tuition and fees, but many students pay less than the advertised price out of pocket. Nearly every school offers financial aid programs, from scholarships to grants to student loans, but these vary widely by school. Look carefully at the school's financial aid webpage. It should display detailed pricing information, including tuition, technology fees, and any other add-ons. It will also provide information on the available financial aid types. You'll have to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to get a final offer from the school, but you can quickly weed out colleges and universities that are likely to be outside your budget.
Check the admission requirements
Some homeland security programs are more competitive than others. Check the admission requirements for your top picks, such as minimum SAT scores and high school GPA, which are typically found on the school's admissions webpage. From there, you can determine if you're likely to be accepted to a given program.
Consider the future
A bachelor's in homeland security is all that's required for many careers in the field. But if you want to increase your earning potential or work in a highly technical specialization, you might eventually need a master's or doctoral degree. To keep your options open, consider a school that offers advanced degrees.