Homeland Security - myFootpath

Homeland Security Basics
Homeland Security, a career field that has seen massive expansion in recent years, involves a wide and varied set of professions, all related to the basic goal of maintaining national security. Some people work for private firms in industries related to Homeland Security, but the frontlines are manned by government employees.

The Department of Homeland Security has many responsibilities, and its employees include such professions as immigration officers, emergency managers, chemists, border patrol agents, and secret service agents.

How to get started in Homeland Security
A key difference between work in homeland security and many other jobs is in the rigorous background checks candidates must undergo. The need for security clearances can mean tougher requirements and a longer waiting period for hiring decisions.

Educational requirements will of course depend on the particular role within the Department of Homeland Security, but a Bachelor’s degree is a safe baseline. (Some positions, such as Border Patrol Agents, accept qualifying experience as a substitute for college training.) Other positions, such as some of those held by the tens of thousands of chemists who work for the department, may require graduate degrees.

Featured Online Schools with Criminal Justice Degrees and a Specialization in Homeland Security:

• Kaplan University – Specialization in Homeland Security – Request Information
• Saint Leo University – Request Information
  

Compatible Personality Traits
Diligent, perceptive, focused, brave, courageous, adaptive, dynamic, intelligent, calm, resourceful.

Salary Expectations for Homeland Security
Salaries vary widely in homeland security employment. For example, border patrol agents start at at least $25,195 a year, while emergency management specialists earn a median salary of $45,670 a year.

As a general rule, employees of the Department of Homeland Security can expect excellent benefits, strong job security, and plenty of overtime pay.

Job Outlook for Homeland Security
Estimates vary depending on particular homeland security position, but general growth should be strong. For example, employment in emergency management is expected to grow by 14 to 20% by 2016. Border Patrol growth has been spectacular recently, with the number of agents employed nearly doubling over the last eight years.

As the U.S. government continues to develop new ways to respond to natural disasters and security threats, homeland security will continue to be a field full of great employment opportunities.

Homeland Security Associations and Resources
U.S. Department of Homeland Security

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Sources: bls.gov/opub/ooq/2006/summer/art01.pdf