3 answers
1
Question
Updated
811 views
What bachelors degrees would pair well with a Bachelor's in Homeland Security? #Spring25
I possess prior experience in this career field, and would like advice on how to progress further in my field.
Login to comment
3 answers
Updated
Gregory’s Answer
Having a degree in Homeland Security is a great start! There are many other degrees/minors that may help, such as a language(s), cyber and technology, accounting, or even an English degree! Special agents/law enforcement do a lot of report writing, writing affidavits etc., so improving writing skills is a plus! Good luck.
Updated
Easton’s Answer
Hi there!
It depends on what your goal is, one of my previous professors who was also the director of NCIS (the program not the TV show) only ever had a BS in Criminology (from what I recall) so it's not necessary to have higher degrees for many parts of law enforcement.
Having said that, if you have an interest in other fields, it may be worth perusing the degree. If you are interested in computer forensics a computer science degree might be useful, or if you are interested in Cybersecurity (as an HSI investigator possibly) a cybersecurity degree might be useful. This one is also particularly poignant as a massive number of daily attacks occur on both US companies as well as US infrastructure from foreign actors.
One thing that's overlooked would be a basic criminology degree, because this focuses on both policy as well as the science behind criminal/deviant behavior it might assist you in obtaining higher levels within the DHS structure.
It depends on what your goal is, one of my previous professors who was also the director of NCIS (the program not the TV show) only ever had a BS in Criminology (from what I recall) so it's not necessary to have higher degrees for many parts of law enforcement.
Having said that, if you have an interest in other fields, it may be worth perusing the degree. If you are interested in computer forensics a computer science degree might be useful, or if you are interested in Cybersecurity (as an HSI investigator possibly) a cybersecurity degree might be useful. This one is also particularly poignant as a massive number of daily attacks occur on both US companies as well as US infrastructure from foreign actors.
One thing that's overlooked would be a basic criminology degree, because this focuses on both policy as well as the science behind criminal/deviant behavior it might assist you in obtaining higher levels within the DHS structure.
Updated
Gregory’s Answer
There is not set course of study to work for Homeland Security. There are many different types of jobs or skills that are required such as accounting, language skills, cyber and technology skills etc. While the normal path students take is criminal justice which prepares you well, it is not the only path that best prepares you for law enforcement. Federal Law enforcement agencies often recruit individuals with specific skills such as being a CPA etc. To become a Special Agent in Homeland Security Investigations, one will most likely require a BA degree as well as prior law enforcement experience working as a police officer or detective. Best of luck.