Interest in Homeland Security Jobs has greatly increased since the terrorist attacks of 9/11. Since then, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has been established, bolstering efforts to protect the country from terrorist threats and enforcing immigration laws. People interested in this line of work can expect to find several career opportunities.
Hundreds of Homeland Security Degree Programs in community colleges and universities have been developed, some specializing in certain areas of homeland security while others offer broader degree programs. One example includes The University of Maryland University College’s undergraduate and graduate degree programs in Homeland Security. This program provides a lesser credit requirement for those desiring to complete both courses. Another example is Penn State University’s degree program, which gives students the option to specialize in five different homeland security fields, including information security and agricultural biosecurity in preparation for a variety of Homeland Security Jobs.
Popular Homeland Security Jobs
As programs for earning a Homeland Security Degree increase and become more readily available, so do Homeland Security jobs for graduates interested in making a career out of ensuring the safety of our country and its citizens. Listed below are five of the most popular Homeland Security jobs.
Cyber Security Specialist: With the invention of higher quality computers, hackers from enemy governments, organizations and those operating independently can potentially compromise national security through the use of viruses and other cyber activities. Cyber security specialists are needed to respond and investigate this situations, as well as engineer security systems to protect valuable data. Salaries in this field can range from $74,000 to $175,000.
Nuclear Medicine Specialist: Scientists specializing in nuclear medicine research ways to protect border patrol agents, soldiers and the secret service who might come into contact with hazardous biological and chemical substances. Scientists in this field can work under various armed forces branches, state and federal agencies. Salaries can range from $60,000 to $75,000.
Border Patrol Agent: Border patrol agents specialize in protecting our borders from people unlawfully attempting to move into the country or traffic illegal products, ranging from drugs to guns. Border patrol agents spend much of the time outside, traveling to areas most in need. They are expected to remain calm under stressful situations including potentially dangerous encounters and possess a high degree of adaptability in a constantly changing work environment. Salaries in this field can range from $39,000 to $46,000.
Emergency Management Director: Emergency management directors play a crucial role in preparing communities for technological and natural disasters. Working in accordance to local, state and federal agencies, they oversee early alert procedures and evacuations, coordinate with emergency response organizations and high-level officials and act in advisory positions during a crisis. Salaries in this field can range from $30,000 to $80,000.
Intelligence Officers: Intelligence officers work alongside local, state and federal agencies coordinating with various groups to combat potential terrorist threats. Job duties can include observing potential threats, interrogation, directing security operations and participating in secret operations. Based on the information gathered, intelligence officers can recommend and implement additional procedures in homeland security. Salaries in this field can range from $70,000 to $96,000.
Homeland security plays an integral role in terrorist threat prevention, border security, advances in medicine and crisis management. For people who desire to serve in a field of heightened importance, Homeland Security Jobs can provide a challenging, yet rewarding career.