On the Frontlines of Homeland Security

For almost 200 years, homeland security jobs fell primarily to members of the U.S. Coast Guard, the National Guard, and the national intelligence community. But following the 9/11 attacks, our state and federal governments have consolidated training and hiring for these critical occupations via the Homeland Security Act of 2002. If you're considering homeland security job training, here are three common questions and answers about the field.

Q: Which state or federal agencies are offering jobs to trained homeland security experts?
A: Here are just a few of the agencies that hire homeland security graduates:

• The Federal Bureau of Investigation
• Food and Drug Administraton
• Immigration and Naturalization Service
• Transportation Security Administration
• U.S. Customs Service
• U.S. Capitol Police
• United States Secret Service
• United States Coast Guard
• Center for Disease Control and Prevention
• Pentagon Police
• United States Park Police

Q: What types of schools or colleges offer homeland security training?
A: You'll find an extensive range of comprehensive programs offering certifications, diplomas, and degrees in homeland security. Security trade schools, community colleges, government agencies, and four-year colleges offer both campus-based and distance learning programs. In addition to earning a homeland security specialization, you can earn AA, MS, and PhD degrees in Criminal Law, Criminal Justice Administration, and Police Studies. The Federal Law Enforcement Training Center is the nation's lead organization for training of federal law enforcement personnel.

Q: What is the long-term job outlook for homeland security graduates?
A: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the state and local governments, police agencies, and private security firms have now planned for additional security hiring. Consequently, security jobs will be among the fastest-growing professions through 2012.