Security Management Degrees
In today's post-9/11 world, companies, governments and individuals are feeling more vulnerable to external threats and are putting more emphasis on protecting assets and people resulting in a greater need for professionals trained to provide security. Degree programs in security management provide an education which covers physical security, asset and information security and human resource safety. Students learn how to prevent security breaches and how to respond in the instance that one does occur.
Security management degree graduates will find they can work in government agencies in areas such as homeland security, aviation security or border security. Many also work for private companies' security departments or work for a private security firm that provides consultation and services to a wide variety of businesses and individuals.
Degree Options
- Associate's Degree – An associate's degree will prepare graduates for entry-level security positions, primarily in private companies.
- Bachelor's Degree – Graduates of a bachelor's degree program will be eligible for many positions in security services fields in private security companies, corporate security departments and government agencies.
- Master's Degree – Master's degree programs will enable graduates to take leadership roles in the security services field.
- Doctoral Degree – Graduates of a doctoral program will be ready to pursue executive leadership roles, become a security consultant or teach at the university level.
Schools
Security management degree programs are offered by a few campus-based schools but are most commonly available at online schools and through online programs at traditional schools. Schools that specialize in law enforcement and criminal justice programs are typical providers as are broad-based online schools.
Coursework
Security management programs will include courses such as those described below:
- Physical Security and Access Control – Course covers detection, delay and response to physical intruders using physical security, electronic sensors, biometrics and other methods.
- Security Administration – Topics include physical identification and verification protocols, securing information systems and addressing emergency threats.
- Security of Information Systems - Students learn prevention and detection security measures to prevent computer hardware, software, networks and data from theft or destruction.
- Security Assessment and Risk Analysis – Examines how to recognize and assess vulnerabilities and risks and how to allocate security resources appropriately.
- Emergency Preparedness – Students learn the process of preparing for, responding to and recovering from security breaches, emergencies and disasters.
Aptitudes and Interests
Individuals interested in this field should be responsible, methodical and analytical and be able to respond reliably in emergency situations. Physical fitness, a clean background and US citizenship may be necessary for some positions in this field.
Career Options
Security management careers can be pursued in both private companies and local, state and federal agencies. Some of possible career options are listed below:
- Detective or Criminal Investigator
- Emergency Management Specialist
- Corporate Security Analyst/Manager
- Information Assurance Manager
- Private Security Manager
- Security Consultant
- Air Marshall
Related Majors
- Homeland Security - Programs focus on national security and emergency preparedness.
- Emergency Management - Students learn how to prepare for and respond to wide array of emergency situations.
- Criminal Justice - Educates students in preparation for law enforcement, corrections and parole and probation careers.
- Law Enforcement - Teaches law enforcement principles for those pursing this career.
How To Evaluate Security Management Degree Programs
When choosing a security management degree program, the following factors should be considered:
- Program Focus – Programs vary in their focus with some better suited to private security careers and others that have a broader focus including national security.
- Faculty Profiles - Schools often provide faculty profiles which allow students to compare the relevance of each instructor's education and experience.
- Career Placement - The level of service a school provides to students looking for a job should be considered.
- Graduate Success - Learning about what jobs graduates have found after completing the program will help determine if the program matches a student's career goals.
- Accreditation - Schools and programs should be accredited by a regional accreditation agency or an agency that is recognized by the US Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
Resources
US Department of Homeland Security
International Security Management Association
International Association of Professional Security Consultants
National Council of Investigation and Security Services
Online Course Finder
Find the path to your
education in 3 easy steps.