Integrated Homeland Security Management (M.S.)

Degree Requirements and Course Descriptions

View degree requirements and course descriptions in the Graduate Catalog.

The program can be completed 100% online with optional courses available in hybrid or in-person format. 

Admission Requirements and Deadlines

View admission requirements and deadlines to apply to the program.

Program Overview

The master’s degree in homeland security balances broad-based knowledge with specific areas of specialization and an applied capstone research experience to provide those working in the homeland security enterprise with the skills needed to craft, allocate and employ the human and material resources of their organizations. The program's core courses constitute the graduate certificate in security assessment and management.

Areas of Specialization

Students will specialize in one of the following areas.

• Security Policy: homeland security, intelligence, law enforcement management, addressing terrorism, political violence and transnational crimes
• Information Assurance: leadership in cyber risk management, network security and information system vulnerabilities
• Health Preparedness: emergency management, disaster response and community health and resilience

To prepare students for the cross-disciplinary demands of homeland security management, students must also take one course in each of the two areas outside their chosen specialization. 

Online Instruction

The program is delivered online to provide working professionals with the resources and flexibility to be a successful graduate student. Through Towson University’s Blackboard platform, students participate in online classroom discussions, access materials and complete coursework with the same requirements and standards as those studying on TU's campus. 

Additional Opportunities

The Order of the Sword and Shield National Honor Society is open to individuals in the Homeland Security, Intelligence, Emergency Management and Protective Security Disciplines. The society has institutional chapters, professional chapters and a national chapter with superior students from schools across the country. 

Why Earn a Master’s Degree in Homeland Security?

Protecting the homeland demands a multifaceted approach that engages every level of American society and its institutions. Threats can arise from human behavior, technological vulnerabilities, natural disasters and environmental causes that often intersect in complex ways. Addressing these challenges requires professionals with a deep understanding of security issues and policies and the capacity to coordinate responses across diverse organizations. 

Towson University's M.S. in homeland security management is specifically designed to prepare qualified practitioners to fulfill critical workforce needs.

Graduates of the program will possess proficiency in:

• leadership and strategic communication in complex environments
• tactical planning, crisis response and risk management
• protection and resilience of critical infrastructure and communities
• development and analysis of security strategies relying on empirical research
• integrated approach to security policies, information assurance and health preparedness

Why Towson University?

Program Advantages

• small classes with exceptional student-faculty interaction
• applied capstone research experience
• industry-relevant areas of specialization
• online and hybrid coursework for maximum flexibility