In this article, we take a look at the best affordable online Master’s in Homeland Security and Emergency Management degrees. The growing number of threats to national security, property, and people means there is a greater need for experienced homeland security professionals. These people focus on concerns like cyberthreats, terrorism, and both man-made and natural disasters. Many colleges and universities offer degrees that train future homeland security and emergency management experts. Possible career titles include law enforcement officer, information security analyst, and emergency manager. We have outlined the top 30 best affordable online Master’s in Homeland Security and Emergency Management below to get you started.
Methodology
To help you find the best school, we awarded points based on tuition, student-to-faculty ratios and graduation rates. We know that there are many factors to think about when you make your decision. So, we wanted to compare the three most common to help you make the best decision possible. To develop our initial list of colleges and universities, we searched for homeland security and emergency management master’s degree on the National Center for Education Statistics’ College Navigator website. We then narrowed down the 55 results into the top 30 schools based on the methodology below.
Average Cost of Attendance
We know that the first thing you will look for in a school is probably the cost of tuition. While tuition is important, try not to pick the cheapest college just to save money. Instead, compare the cost with what the school has to offer. Look for things like internship opportunities, concentrations offered, and any extracurricular clubs or organizations you can join. For this article, we used tuition information we got from the NCES for an in-state student taking one full year of classes. We listed out-of-state tuition rates as well.
Points:
Under $7,500: 5 points
$7,500 to $15,000: 3 points
$15,001 and above: 1 point
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
A school’s student-to-faculty ratio tells us about the size of the classes at that college. When looking at this number, ask yourself the following questions: Do you learn better in a large class? Do you need to be held accountable for your work? Do you want to develop a relationship with your professor? Are you looking for mentoring or individualized studies? Do you prefer to blend into the background? Depending on your answers, you will find a large university or a small private college may be better for you. It all comes down to individual preferences and learning styles. For this article, we awarded the most points to schools with the lowest student-to-faculty ratios from NCES.
Points:
10:1 or less: 3 points
11:1 to 15:1: 2 points
Greater than 15:1: 1 point
Graduation Rate
The last thing we looked at was each school’s graduation rate. This number tells us a little more about how successful students are and how likely they are to graduate. In most cases, schools with high graduation rates are providing affordable degrees and good academic support. Students are happy, which means they stay enrolled and graduate. On the other hand, schools with low graduation rates are probably falling short in some way. Since students are not happy, they will probably leave and finish their degrees somewhere else. Therefore, schools with the highest graduation rates, according to NCES, earned the most points.
Points
More than 50 percent: 3 points
Between 30 percent and 50 percent: 2 points
Less than 30 percent: 1 point
Ranking Top 30 Best Affordable Online Master’s in Homeland Security and Emergency Management Degrees
30. Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Points: 4
Program Website
Nova Southeastern University was established in 1964 as the Nova University of Advanced Technology. One of the most affordable universities for an online homeland security and emergency management degree, NSU offers a cost-effective Master of Science in Disaster and Emergency Management. From the international to the local level, students at this high-value school examine the theory of emergency management. Classes cover areas like all-hazards recovery, mitigation, response, and prevention. Specialty tracks are offered in fire administration, public health, criminal justice, cybersecurity, and maritime safety and security. A research practicum or internship is required for graduation.
Degree Options:
M.S. in Disaster and Emergency Management
In-State Tuition: $20,620
Out-of-State Tuition: $20,620
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 50 percent
29. National University
San Diego, California
Points: 4
Program Website
Ranked as the largest private nonprofit university in San Diego, National University was founded in 1971 and offers on-campus and online programs designed for adult learners. This inexpensive school’s Master of Science in Homeland Security and Emergency Management consists of four-week classes. The 54-quarter-unit curriculum combines fields like emergency management, terrorism, and homeland security as they relate to natural and manmade disasters. Other areas of study in this low-cost program include immigration issues, information security, infrastructure protection, and emergency/disaster response. Students can complete the program entirely online. A capstone course is required for graduation.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Homeland Security and Emergency Management
In-State Tuition: $15,480
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,480
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 36 percent
28. Bellevue University
Bellevue, Nebraska
Points: 4
Program Website
Founded in 1966, Bellevue University is a nonprofit, private university that focuses on providing educational outreach and adult education to more than 9,500 students. Students looking for an affordable homeland security and emergency management degree might want to take Bellevue’s economical Master of Science in Security Management program. The curriculum focuses on critical infrastructure protection, information security, homeland defense, terrorism, and emerging threats. Students also develop their skills in criminal justice, public safety, security and law enforcement, threat assessment, and crime prevention. This top-value program is available entirely online in a cohort format.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Security Management
In-State Tuition: $11,025
Out-of-State Tuition: $11,025
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 27:1
Graduation Rate: N/A
27. St. John’s University
Queens, New York
Points: 5
Program Website
Established in 1870 by the Congregation of the Mission, St. John’s University is a private, Roman Catholic university and one of the most affordable universities for a homeland security and emergency management degree. The 36-credit Master of Professional Studies in Homeland Security and Criminal Justice Leadership at SJU is available on-campus and online. This top-value program focuses on the study of leadership in all areas of criminal justice and homeland security. This includes corrections, the courts, and the police service. Students in this economical homeland security and emergency management program benefit from internship opportunities, one-on-one academic advisement, leading faculty members who are experts in their fields, and classes that accommodate working professionals.
Degree Options:
Homeland Security and Criminal Justice Leadership, Master of Professional Studies
In-State Tuition: $18,836
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,836
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 61 percent
26. California University of Pennsylvania
California, Pennsylvania
Points: 5
Program Website
The California University of Pennsylvania, founded in 1852, is a public university and a member of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE). If you are looking for an affordable online homeland security and emergency management degree for 2020, consider CUP’s 30-credit Master of Science in Legal Studies with a concentration in homeland security. The program focuses on law, ethics, public policy, and civil liberties. Students from this cost-effective school also examine nuclear, chemical, and biological threats as well as terrorism and domestic extremism. The homeland security concentration teaches students how to prevent and reverse terrorism to protect the country and its citizens. Graduate students can earn their online degree in two years of part-time or one year of full-time study.
Degree Options:
Homeland Security Concentration – M.S., Legal Studies
In-State Tuition: $16,672
Out-of-State Tuition: $22,864
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 53 percent
25. Millersville University of Pennsylvania
Millersville, PENNSYLVANIA
Points: 5
Program Website
Millersville University of Pennsylvania is a public institution of higher learning and one of 14 schools that make up the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE). Established in 1855, MU offers a top Master of Science in Emergency Management completely online. Require coursework covers emergency preparedness, natural hazards, and mental health and trauma. Other areas of study include social dimensions of disaster, professional writing, and the principles of emergency management. The program culminates in a hands-on practicum course at a field location, volunteer position, or current job site. Graduate students from this best-value emergency management program might also choose to create and defend a thesis. Students take 30 credit hours of courses and can graduate in two years.
Degree Options:
M.S. in Emergency Management
In-State Tuition: $15,882
Out-of-State Tuition: $22,074
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 60 percent
24. Southern Illinois University-Carbondale
Carbondale, Illinois
Points: 5
Program Website
Founded in 1869, Southern Illinois University-Carbondale is a public research university and the oldest campus in the Southern Illinois University System. Graduate students looking for a cheap homeland security and emergency management degree can pursue the online Master of Public Safety and Homeland Security Management program at SIU. Two tracks are available: the In-Service track for students who have graduated from the National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer (EFO) program and a traditional track for students who are not EFO graduates. This economical program consists of 30 or 39 semester hours of classes, respectively, and students can graduate in as few as four semesters or 16 months.
Degree Options:
Master of Public Safety and Homeland Security Management
In-State Tuition: $15,626
Out-of-State Tuition: $32,528
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Graduation Rate: 41 percent
23. University of Massachusetts-Lowell
Lowell, Massachusetts
Points: 5
Program Website
One of the most affordable universities for an online homeland security and emergency management degree for 2020, the University of Massachusetts-Lowell is a public research university. It is also a member of the University of Massachusetts System. UMass Lowell offers a best-value Master of Arts in Security Studies with a concentration in homeland defense. This program covers areas like maritime and land border protection, national and regional security intelligence, and critical infrastructure protection. Other topics of study from this inexpensive school include homeland security policy development and strategy as well as the use of new technologies in homeland security. Students must complete 10 classes for a total of 30 credits to graduate from the program.
Degree Options:
Master of Arts in Security Studies: Homeland Defense Concentration
In-State Tuition: $15,060
Out-of-State Tuition: $26,840
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 63 percent
22. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide
Daytona Beach, Florida
Points: 5
Program Website
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is the largest accredited university system that specializes in aerospace and aviation. Established in 1926 as Embry-Riddle Flying School, ERAU offers a best-value online Master of Science in Emergency Services that focuses on three areas: homeland security, emergency management, and emergency services. Other topics of study from this low-cost online master’s in emergency services include recovery, disaster response, and hazard mitigation and preparedness. The 33-hour program is offered completely online. Students can network with experienced faculty members with years of experience as well as with professionals from around the world.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Emergency Services
In-State Tuition: $7,980
Out-of-State Tuition: $7,980
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 19 percent
21. Monmouth University
West Long Branch, New Jersey
Points: 6
Program Website
Founded as Monmouth Junior College in 1933, Monmouth University is a private university and a solid choice for graduates seeking a cost-effective homeland security and emergency management degree for 2020. The school offers a 30-credit Master of Arts in Criminal Justice that includes a 15-credit track in homeland security. Students of this economical school develop their knowledge of both the criminal justice system as well as core homeland security areas such as strategic planning, intelligence analysis, and anti-terror strategies. Monmouth works with the Center for Homeland Defense and Security at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California and provides opportunities for research and hands-on learning.
Degree Options:
Master of Arts in Criminal Justice, Homeland Security Track
In-State Tuition: $26,814
Out-of-State Tuition: $26,814
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Graduation Rate: 69 percent
20. Thomas Jefferson University
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Points: 6
Program Website
A private institution of higher learning, Thomas Jefferson University was established in 1824 but combined with Philadelphia University in 2017. The school offers an economical homeland security and emergency management degree in the form of a top-value Master of Science in Disaster Medicine and Management. Core classes cover topics like disaster exercises and drills, the psychological aspects of disasters, and the public health implications of disasters. A capstone experience is required, including a master’s project with or without an internship. The cost-effective, 12-course, 36-credit curriculum is available on-campus or online and can be completed in one to three years.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Disaster Medicine & Management
In-State Tuition: $21,600
Out-of-State Tuition: $21,600
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 64 percent
19. Saint Joseph’s University
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Points: 6
Program Website
Founded by the Society of Jesus in 1851, Saint Joseph’s University is the seventh-oldest Jesuit university in the U.S. Students looking for a high-value homeland security and emergency management degree may consider pursuing SJU’s master’s degree in criminal justice with a concentration in homeland security. Topics of study in the inexpensive 30-credit program include risk management and assessment as well as the sociological effects of disasters. Students will also learn about the effects and causes of terrorism from historical, religious, and political views. Graduates are prepared for careers in response and prevention, travel security and immigration, law enforcement, and mission support.
Degree Options:
Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice: Homeland Security Concentration
In-State Tuition: $16,992
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,992
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Graduation Rate: 80 percent
18. Lander University
Greenwood, South Carolina
Points: 6
Program Website
Lander University, established in 1872, is a public institution of higher learning and a great choice for graduate students seeking a high-value homeland security and emergency management degree in 2020. Lander University’s cheap online Master of Science in Emergency Management trains students in the science of management during manmade and natural disasters. Topics of study include information technology management, transportation logistics management, business management, and nonprofit management. Students also learn about public administration and government planning. The curriculum includes four electives, six core courses, and one capstone for a total of 31 credit hours of study. Graduate students can earn their degree within two years if they take two classes per term.
Degree Options:
M.S. in Emergency Management
In-State Tuition: $12,800
Out-of-State Tuition: $23,500
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 43 percent
17. Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Natchitoches, Louisiana
Points: 6
Program Website
Established in 1884, Northwestern State University of Louisiana began as the Louisiana State Normal School. It was the first school in the state to offer degrees in business education and nursing. Today, graduate students earning NSU’s best-value Master of Science in Homeland Security have their choice of two options: a 36-semester-hour, non-thesis track or a 30-semester-hour thesis track. Both programs focus on topics like intelligence analysis, international and domestic terrorism, network security and cyberforensics, and transnational security issues. Students of this inexpensive homeland security degree program also learn how to intervene and de-escalate looming disaster situations.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Homeland Security
In-State Tuition: $8,909
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,697
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 45 percent
16. Wilmington University
New Castle, Delaware
Points: 6
Program Website
One of the most affordable universities for an online homeland security and emergency management degree in 2020, Wilmington University is a private, doctoral, research university that began as Wilmington College in 1968. Offered 100 percent online, Wilmington University’s inexpensive Master of Science in Homeland Security guides students through in-depth classes that explore information security, public safety, and risk management. Students may also customize the 33-credit degree through one of three concentrations: military leadership, information assurance, or organizational leadership. This low-cost program culminates in a capstone project that involves a research project, a field practicum, and/or the submission of a final portfolio/paper.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Homeland Security
In-State Tuition: $8,636
Out-of-State Tuition: $8,636
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 24 percent
15. Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, Virginia
Points: 7
Program Website
Graduate students looking for a best-value homeland security and emergency management degree might consider attending Virginia Commonwealth University. Founded in 1838, VCU is a public research university that offers a low-cost Master of Arts in Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness entirely online. It is the only program in the U.S. to specialize in both homeland security and emergency preparedness. Topics of study at this economical university include emergency management, cybersecurity law and policy, and terrorism. Students will also learn about public health and risk assessment. The 36-credit program includes simulations and case studies for real-world experience. A capstone and assessment course is required for graduation.
Degree Options:
Master of Arts in Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness
In-State Tuition: $14,496
Out-of-State Tuition: $27,311
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 67 percent
14. Thomas Edison State University
Trenton, New Jersey
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1972, Thomas Edison State University is a public university that educates the state’s adult learners through mostly online programs. TESU offers a cheap Master of Science in Homeland Security degree that consists of 36 credits. It is designed for adults interested in leadership careers in emergency preparedness and homeland security. This low-cost curriculum focuses on global and domestic issues in security. Students also develop competencies in policymaking, practice, analysis, and theory. Other areas of study include public administration, biosecurity and cybersecurity, intelligence and law enforcement as well as emergency management, legal issues, and terrorism.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Homeland Security
In-State Tuition: $12,024
Out-of-State Tuition: $12,024
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 41 percent
13. Eastern Kentucky University
Richmond, Kentucky
Points: 7
Program Website
Eastern Kentucky University is a public university and one of the most affordable universities for a top online master’s degree in homeland security and emergency management in 2020. Established in 1906, EKU offers a high-value Master of Science in Safety, Security and Emergency Management that includes a multidisciplinary track or a concentration in a specific subject area like emergency management and disaster resilience, occupational safety, or corporate security operations. Graduates are prepared to apply for the Associate Safety and Health Manager (ASHM) certification. With two more years of experience in the field, graduates may become Certified Safety and Health Managers (CSHM).
Degree Options:
Safety, Security & Emergency Management Master of Science
In-State Tuition: $10,570
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,070
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 47 percent
12. Towson University
Towson, Maryland
Points: 7
Program Website
Towson University is a public university that was founded as Maryland’s first training school for teachers in 1866. A member of the University System of Maryland, Towson offers an affordable Master of Science in Integrated Homeland Security Management that allows students to specialize in one of three areas: security policy, information assurance, or health preparedness. The cost-effective curriculum teaches students how to research, develop, and analyze security strategies. They also learn how to create, employ, and allocate their organizations’ material and human resources. This top program is available entirely online for residents of certain states and culminates in a capstone research project.
Degree Options:
Integrated Homeland Security Management (M.S.)
In-State Tuition: $10,062
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,108
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 73 percent
11. Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, Texas
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1879 as Sam Houston Normal Institute, Sam Houston State University is the third-oldest public institution of higher learning in Texas. SHSU’s low-cost online Master of Science in Homeland Security Studies requires 36 credit hours of study. The curriculum provides factual knowledge of homeland security and helps students develop their policymaking and strategic thinking skills. Required areas of study include security and management, law and ethics, crisis management, and critical infrastructure protection. Graduates of this cheap homeland security degree program are prepared to work in the private sector as well as in homeland security at all government levels.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Homeland Security Studies
In-State Tuition: $7,791
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,261
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Graduation Rate: 52 percent
10. Endicott College
Beverly, Massachusetts
Points: 8
Program Website
Endicott College is a private institution of higher learning and recognized among the top schools for an affordable distance education degree in homeland security and emergency management in 2020. Endicott provides a low-cost Master of Science in Homeland Security Studies that builds a foundation in homeland security and covers other critical areas like cybersecurity, emergency management, and terrorism. Students benefit from networking opportunities, job placement support, personal advising, experienced faculty, and a collaborative learning environment. The 36-credit program culminates in a capstone course in which students apply what they have learned to a real-world situation.
Degree Options:
Homeland Security Studies Program (M.S.)
In-State Tuition: $12,191
Out-of-State Tuition: $12,191
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 76 percent
9. Mississippi College
Clinton, Mississippi
Points: 8
Program Website
Founded in 1826, Mississippi College is the oldest college in Mississippi and the second-oldest Baptist-affiliated college in the country. MC offers a top-value Master of Social Science in Homeland Security that is available 100 percent online. The curriculum builds a foundation in justice administration, and graduate students take elective classes that focus on issues in the field of homeland security. Coursework examines topics such as cyber, international, and domestic terrorism. Other areas of study include special issues in homeland security, legal aspects of homeland security, and grant writing for homeland security. Graduates of this best homeland security program are prepared for careers in immigration and customs enforcement, transportation and security, federal emergency management, and citizenship and immigration services.
Degree Options:
Master of Social Science in Homeland Security
In-State Tuition: $11,630
Out-of-State Tuition: $11,630
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 53 percent
8. Salve Regina University
Newport, Rhode Island
Points: 8
Program Website
Students seeking a best-value homeland security and emergency management degree may consider Salve Regina University. Founded in 1934 as Salve Regina College by the Sisters of Mercy, Salve offers an inexpensive 36-credit Master of Science in Administration of Justice and Homeland Security composed of 12 courses. Students will investigate areas like terrorism, homeland security, public policy, constitutional issues, and theories of justice. Courses are taught by seasoned faculty members who are experts in their respective fields. Graduate students may also select one of three concentrations: cybersecurity and intelligence, digital forensics, or leadership in justice.
Degree Options:
Administration of Justice and Homeland Security (M.S.)
In-State Tuition: $10,650
Out-of-State Tuition: $10,650
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Graduation Rate: 72 percent
7. Saint Leo University
St. Leo, Florida
Points: 8
Program Website
Saint Leo University, established in 1889, is a private, liberal arts, Roman Catholic university and a popular choice for an affordable homeland security and emergency management degree. The school offers a cheap online, 36-credit-hour master’s degree in emergency and disaster management that trains students on how to identify threats, minimize risks, and lead organizations in times of disaster and crisis. Topics of study include hazard mitigation, financial management, organizational leadership, risk identification and assessment, and terrorism. This low-cost curriculum is available as a two-year traditional program and as an accelerated option. A fire science administration specialization is also offered.
Degree Options:
Online Master’s Degree in Emergency and Disaster Management
In-State Tuition: $8,498
Out-of-State Tuition: $8,498
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 51 percent
6. Angelo State University
San Angelo, Texas
Points: 8
Program Website
Established in 1928 as San Angelo College, Angelo State University is a public university and the second-largest campus in the Texas Tech University System. Students taking ASU’s best-value Master of Science in Homeland Security will gain practical and theoretical knowledge in the field of homeland security. Courses from this cheap degree program focus on areas like emergency management, cybersecurity, law, and terrorism. Students will also investigate drug and human trafficking, cybersecurity, and critical infrastructure protection. Classes are delivered entirely online by nationally recognized faculty members in an eight-week format. Graduates are prepared for careers in emergency management, law enforcement, and criminal justice.
Degree Options:
Homeland Security Master’s Degree (M.S.)
In-State Tuition: $6,696
Out-of-State Tuition: $14,166
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Graduation Rate: 34 percent
5. Arkansas Tech University
Russellville, Arkansas
Points: 8
Program Website
Students looking for an inexpensive online Master’s in Homeland Security and Emergency Management might consider attending Arkansas Tech University. Established in 1909, Arkansas Tech offers an inexpensive online Master of Science in Emergency Management and Homeland Security that focuses on the economic, legal, political, and social aspects of the field. Students of this top-value degree program must complete 36 semester hours of study, including required classes in emergency management, emerging and new technologies, and research design and methods. Before finishing their degrees, students must choose either a thesis option and write a master’s thesis or a practicum option that involves a hands-on, real-world learning experience.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Emergency Management & Homeland Security
In-State Tuition: $6,485
Out-of-State Tuition: $11,597
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 41 percent
4. Arizona State University
Tempe, Arizona
Points: 8
Program Website
Established in 1885, Arizona State University is a public research university and one of the largest universities by enrollment in the country. ASU offers a best affordable online Master of Arts in Emergency Management and Homeland Security for 2020 that consists of 10 total classes for a total of 33 credit hours of study. Each class lasts approximately seven and a half weeks, and the program can be completed in one year. In this top EMHS program, students can choose one of five concentrations: cybersecurity policy and management, biosecurity and threat management, homeland security, emergency management, or community resilience.
Degree Options:
Master of Arts in Emergency Management and Homeland Security (EMHS)
In-State Tuition: $6,462
Out-of-State Tuition: $6,462
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 23:1
Graduation Rate: 48 percent
3. Arkansas State University
Jonesboro, Arkansas
Points: 8
Program Website
Arkansas State University is a public research university and the flagship campus of the Arkansas State University System. Established in 1909, it is the second-largest institution of higher learning in the state. ASU offers a top-value Master of Science in Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management that is available 100 percent online. Students complete 36 credit hours, including three emphasis classes, six core courses, a practicum experience, and a final project like a thesis, internship, or research. Areas of study from this best emergency management program include crisis communications, research design and methodology, healthcare issues and policies, and global perspectives.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management
In-State Tuition: $6,210
Out-of-State Tuition: $11,016
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 48 percent
2. University of Texas at El Paso
El Paso, Texas
Points: 8
Program Website
Taking the number two spot on our list of the best affordable online Master’s in Homeland Security and Emergency Management degrees for 2020 is the University of Texas at El Paso. Established in 1914, UTEP offers a top online Master of Defense and Strategic Studies degree for students looking to work in national security and defense. This high-value 36-semester-credit program is available 100 percent online and features accelerated seven-week courses. The curriculum emphasizes strategy development as well as regional security issues, diplomacy, military operations, and inter-agency processes. Faculty members are experienced in all areas of national security, including modern warfare, counterterrorism, legal psychology, and national security law.
Degree Options:
Online Master of Defense and Strategic Studies
In-State Tuition: $6,170
Out-of-State Tuition: $14,878
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Graduation Rate: 39 percent
1. Marian University
Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
Points: 10
Program Website
Formerly Marian College of Fond du Lac, Marian University was founded by the Congregation of Sisters of Saint Agnes in 1936. Today, Marian tops our list for the most affordable online Master’s in Homeland Security and Emergency Management degrees for 2020. The school’s 31-credit Master of Science in Professional Practice in Public Safety is available entirely online and features a rigorous curriculum and competency-based, hands-on learning experiences. Areas of study from this best program include management, organizational, and public communication as well as budgeting, public safety, leadership, and employee wellness. This top program culminates in a research-based capstone project in which students apply what they have learned in real-world situations.
Degree Options:
Master of Science in Professional Practice in Public Safety
In-State Tuition: $5,130
Out-of-State Tuition: $5,130
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Graduation Rate: 53 percent
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Career Options for an Online Master’s in Homeland Security and Emergency Management Degree?
If you are thinking about working in law enforcement and you are wondering what homeland security does or what you can do with this degree, keep reading. When we say “homeland security,” we mean the people, resources, and systems that respond to emergency situations like natural disasters and terrorist attacks. Since many people work in different sectors to protect people and property, there are lots of career options available like:
- Disaster Recovery Coordinator
- Emergency Response Coordinator
- Emergency Management Specialist
- Security Consultant
- Logistician
- Information Security Analyst
- Emergency Management Director
Keep in mind that the jobs you can apply for will also depend on whether you picked a specialization for your degree. For example, if you follow a track in disease prevention or epidemiology, you might be looking at a career in public health. On the other hand, if you want to work in information technology, you might want to focus on digital forensics and cybersecurity classes.
Within the Department of Homeland Security, you will find many roles and jobs that fall into these groups: intelligence, infrastructure protection, and disaster preparedness and response. Other organizations and agencies that hire students with a master’s degree in homeland security include:
- Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI)
- Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
- U.S. Customs Services
- U.S. Coast Guard
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- Transportation Security Administration (TSA)
Something else to think about: Some jobs in homeland security, law enforcement, and counterterrorism require you to be fit enough and physically strong to work in an active role. Other jobs like security screeners are not as physically demanding. Think about your strength and physical ability and limitations, if any, when choosing a future career.
What is the Salary Potential for an Online Master’s in Homeland Security and Emergency Management Degree?
Since there is a growing need for homeland security professionals, the job outlook and salary potential are both high. Also, students who earn a master’s degree usually earn more than those with only a bachelor’s degree. Your salary will depend on a few things like where you want to work, the agency you are working for, if you earned a bachelor’s or master’s, how much experience you have, and your specialization. To get a better idea of how much money a master’s degree in homeland security and emergency management will bring, we looked at data for three careers at the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
First, information security analysts earned $98,350 per year as of May 2018. The highest 10 percent earned more than $156,580, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $56,750. The following industries paid information security analysts the most in May 2018:
- Computer systems design and related services: $102,620
- Insurance and finance: $101,130
- Information: $96,580
- Management of enterprises and companies: $94,180
- Support and administrative services: $94,120
Next, logisticians saw an average annual salary of $74,600. According to the BLS, the top 10 percent brought home more than $119,950, and the lowest 10 percent earned less than $44,440. Top-paying industries for logisticians include the federal government, manufacturing, and management. Logisticians were also paid well if they worked in wholesale trade or in technical, scientific, and professional services.
Finally, the BLS reported that emergency management directors earned $74,420 per year as of May 2018. According to the data, the highest 10 percent saw $141,130 annually, and the lowest 10 percent earned less than $40,460. Students looking to become an emergency management director might want to look into the technical, scientific and technical service industry to get paid the most. Other top-paying sectors like hospitals and the government offer higher salaries, too.
What Will You Study in an Online Graduate Homeland Security and Emergency Management Degree Program?
Online homeland security degree programs focus on the procedures, ethics, and laws that nonprofit and federal agencies must follow. Each college and university is different, and the classes you take will depend on the school you choose. Most courses cover topics related to homeland security’s different branches like crisis communication, infrastructure, resource protection, health, and terrorism. Also, some schools let students concentrate their studies on a certain area of homeland security. This might include public health, narcotics, chemical warfare, or cybersecurity. Other concentrations are:
- Port Security
- Emergency Management
- Cyber Intelligence
Students who follow a specific track may have better luck finding a job in their niche. Undergraduates can get a job with a bachelor’s degree, but a master’s degree is better for students looking for a leadership position. Doctorates in homeland security and emergency management are pretty hard to find.
Most graduate students will have to complete a capstone course to graduate. In this class, students use what they have learned over the program to find a solution to a real-world concern related to public security and safety. Internships might also be required. Keep in mind that online and on-campus programs are usually the same and lead to the same job opportunities. However, studying at home and earning an online degree might be a better option if you have children, a part-time job or other responsibilities to take care of.
Choosing a school for your online homeland security and emergency management master’s degree is a personal decision. Only you can figure out whether a potential school will be able to give you what you are looking for in a program. However, we hope that the above-ranked list of schools serves as a helpful starting point as you look for the best affordable online Master’s in Homeland Security and emergency management degrees.
AS Staff
This concludes our ranking of the top 30 best affordable online master’s in homeland security and emergency management degrees.
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