Homeland Security Certificate Online Advanced Counterterrorism Graduate Courses
Program Overview Why get a homeland security certificate online?
In today's climate, the threat of terrorist attacks and natural disasters can't be ignored. Southern New Hampshire University's Advanced Counterterrorism and Homeland Security Graduate Certificate examines key challenges, strategies, principles and theories used to help keep the United States safe. You'll learn in-demand techniques like intelligence analysis, threat management, advanced surveillance and anti-terrorism, so you can position yourself for success in the fields of counterterrorism and defense.
Skills you'll learn:
- Intelligence gathering and interpretation tactics
- Counterterrorism responses and actions
- Human motivation and behavior theory analysis
- Policy comprehension
Courses & Curriculum Homeland security certificate online classes that teach you how to protect others
Whether you have your bachelor's degree and want to try advanced-level coursework or you already have a master's degree and want to supplement your education, this 4-course certificate is a great option for building expertise in the field of counterterrorism. It can help you gain a strong understanding of emergency management planning, threat assessments, constitutional rights and civil liberties, and the role elected officials play in shaping public policy.
Courses may include:
Global Terrorism
Course ID:
CJ 530
Explore how geopolitics and terrorist attacks influence the world today. Examine historical events and the impact on foreign and domestic policy. Students dispel misconceptions and create a new evidence-based response to address global terrorism.
Terrorist Techniques and Counterterrorism
Course ID:
CJ 681
Deconstruct biases and mindsets about terrorism. Explore modern international and domestic counterterrorism as techniques to mitigate actions by terrorist organizations and extremists. Students gain a comprehensive view of the motivation and nature behind terrorism.
Threat Assessment
Course ID:
CJ 682
Analyze international and domestic terrorist threats utilizing threat assessment techniques. Examine viable responses and communication strategies identified from a critical assessment. Using these responses and strategies, scrutinize intelligence to create a viable solution to mitigate a terrorist threat.
Intelligence Collection and Analysis
Course ID:
CJ 683
Examine and interpret intelligence gathered using industry standard practices. Apply structured analytic techniques to review data and information for the purpose of synthesizing and communicating findings to a variety of audiences. Students acquire the know-how in applying the right technique(s) to produce the type of information needed to take action in addressing terrorism related problems.
Visit the course catalog to view the full Advanced Counterterrorism & Homeland Security Graduate Certificate curriculum.
PC (Windows OS) Technical Requirements
| Component Type | PC (Windows OS) |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Currently supported operating system from Microsoft. |
| Memory (RAM) | 8GB or higher |
| Hard Drive | 100GB or higher |
| Antivirus Software | Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
| SNHU Purchase Programs | Visit Dell |
| Internet/ Bandwidth | 5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100ms Latency |
Apple (Mac OS) Technical Requirements
| Component Type | Apple (Mac OS) |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Currently supported operating system from Apple. |
| Memory (RAM) | 8GB or higher |
| Hard Drive | 100GB or higher |
| Antivirus Software | Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
| SNHU Purchase Programs | Visit Apple |
| Internet/ Bandwidth | 5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100ms Latency |
Additional Information:
- Laptop or desktop? Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.
- Note: Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device. SNHU does, however, have an affordable laptop option that it recommends: Dell Latitude 3301 with Windows 10.
- Office 365 Pro Plus is available free of charge to all SNHU students and faculty. The Office suite will remain free while you are a student at SNHU. Upon graduation you may convert to a paid subscription if you wish. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion. Review system requirements for Microsoft 365 plans for business, education and government.
- Antivirus software: Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.
Licensure and Certification Disclosures
SNHU has provided additional information for programs that educationally prepare students for professional licensure or certification. Learn more about what that means for your program on our licensure and certification disclosure page.
Apply for free in minutes
Our no-commitment application can help you decide if SNHU is the right college for you and your career goals. Apply up until 2 days before the term starts!
Upcoming term starts: March 24, 2025 | June 9, 2025
Next term starts:
Jan. 6, 2025
Online Student Experience What’s it like going to SNHU?
Attending college online at SNHU can be a life-changing experience. In fact, 93.2% of online students would recommend SNHU according to a 2023 survey with 21,000+ respondents.
What to expect:
10-week terms
Learn around your schedule
24/7 online support
What does an online course look like?
You’ll take your courses within SNHU’s Brightspace platform. This is where you’ll find your:
- Schedule of weekly assignments
- Discussion boards
- Grades
- Instructor announcements
What support services are available?
- Chat with your advisors
Get hands-on help from dedicated academic and career advisors. - Drop in for tutoring
Work with a tutor, any time of the day or night – no appointment necessary. - Learn from industry professionals
Instructors lead discussions and offer guidance – and they’re just an email away. - Use the online library
Access 600,000+ resources or chat with a librarian 24/7. - Reach out for accessibility help
Receive accommodations as an eligible student with disabilities. - Focus on your well-being
Connect with professionals to improve your health and wellness.
Learn From Instructors With Industry Experience
Our faculty carry with them decades of experience in criminology. By bringing real-world insights to the classroom, they can help position graduates for success in a field that's always changing.
Featured Faculty
James Henderson
James Henderson is a retired master police officer with specializations in explosives detection, threat assessment, Joint Terrorism Task Force and counterterrorism training.
Position
Adjunct Faculty
Joined SNHU
2016
Education
- Bachelor's in Criminal Justice from Chapman University
- Master's in Criminal Justice with a specialization in Crisis Management from Nova Southeastern University
"Our advanced counterterrorism students learn threat assessment skills by analyzing terrorist attack methodology. Using real-world scenarios and analytics, students not only study the topic but gain further confidence by applying the risk framework process to protect national critical infrastructure."
Why SNHU?
At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 400,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. Our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. Plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities.
Recently, SNHU has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education:
- U.S. News & World Report
Named SNHU the 2024 Most Innovative University in the North - The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)
Awarded SNHU the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology - Google.org
Gave SNHU a $1 million grant to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth
Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 180,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.
Admission Applying to SNHU is fast and free
No application fee. No test scores. And no college essay. Just a simple form with basic information. It’s another way SNHU helps you reach your goals sooner.
All it takes is 3 simple steps
Step 1: Complete the online application – it only takes minutes.
It's easy, fast and free.
Step 2: Submit additional forms.
Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or graduate degree, you’ll fill out a form to verify your previous education experience. As part of our admissions process, we'll help you request transcripts from your previous school(s) to see if you can transfer any credits into your SNHU program! (Also for free!)
Step 3: Make your decision.
After reviewing your official evaluation, you can decide if SNHU is right for you! If you choose to enroll, just pick your start date and get ready for classes to begin.
Talk to an admission counselor: 888.327.SNHU | enroll@snhu.edu
Accreditations
SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). The university also carries specialized accreditations for some programs.
Tuition Cost & Savings College can be more affordable than you think
As a nonprofit university, SNHU offers some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country. And when you work with our Financial Services team, we'll explore ways to help you save even more on your education – and customize a payment plan that works for you.
This certificate is not eligible for federal financial aid. Students seeking alternatives to federal financial aid can explore tuition assistance, grants and scholarships, as well as private loans. To learn more about private loans, visit our Funding Your Education with Student Loans page.
Online certificate tuition
Student
Cost per credit
Cost per course
Cost for 12-credit certificate
Full- and part-time students
$637
$1,911
$7,644
Active-duty military and spouses | Full- and part-time students*
$470
$1,410
$5,640
Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually.
*Note: Students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.
Additional costs: Course materials vary by course.
Career Outlook What can I do with an online homeland security certificate?
This certificate can help you gain the skills needed to compete for government employment – an industry known for its stability, great benefits and opportunity for career advancement. It may also prepare you for work in the private sector, as businesses with sensitive properties – like aerospace, chemicals, cybersecurity and transportation – often search for candidates with counterterrorism knowledge.
Occupations
After completing this program, you may consider the following roles. It's important to note some may required additional education, training and eligibility requirements.
Police Officer
Protect lives and property by carefully observing people and their activities.
Detective
Gather facts and collect evidence of crimes through suspect interviews, record examination and more.
Customs and Border Patrol Officer
Identify and stop threats to national security at the nation's border.
Emergency Management Specialist
Coordinate relief for disasters ranging from hurricanes and forest fires to terrorist attacks.
Law Enforcement Information Systems Specialist
Detect and identify threats at the border using technology like live surveillance video.
Mission Support Specialist
Assess intelligence using sources and documentation to verify its credibility.
$75,570
Median annual pay for federally employed police and detectives as of May 2023, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.1
Understanding the numbers
When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors—like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a certificate in homeland security?
A graduate certificate in homeland security is a highly focused graduate-level program dedicated to building skills and knowledge in counterterrorism and defense.
If you're interested in homeland security and already have your bachelor's or master's degree, a certificate program might be a great next step. Whether your background is in criminal justice, IT, history or something else, a graduate certificate in homeland security can help you gain expertise that sets you apart.
Southern New Hampshire University offers a 4-course homeland security certificate online. With 5 graduate term starts per year and some of the lowest tuition rates in the nation, you can finish the program quickly and affordably.
What do you do with a degree in homeland security?
A degree in homeland security can take you places in your career. But what exactly do those jobs look like? Here's what your duties might look like in some of the different agencies under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security:
- Customs and Border Protection (CBP): With over 300 ports of entry, CBP employees are tasked with enforcing regulations that involve trade, customs and immigration. Agents are responsible for the important task of keeping the country safe by detecting threats at the border.
- Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): Primarily, FEMA is in charge of coordinating responses to disasters – be it extreme weather phenomena or terrorist attacks – states are unable to handle on their own.
- Secret Service: The Secret Service is known for protecting the president. However, they're also in charge of detecting and thwarting threats against other government officials and their families, as well as other country representatives visiting the U.S.
- Transportation Security Administration (TSA): Whether it's by land, air or sea, the TSA is responsible for the safety of public transportation in the U.S. Some TSA jobs include screening officers, federal air marshals and experts in explosives and weapons.
What is the age limit for homeland security?
While there are some exceptions, homeland security agents are generally required to be between the ages of 18 and 37.
It's important to note this maximum age requirement only applies to customs and border protection officer, firefighter or law enforcement officer positions as appointed by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
If you are over 37 and want to work in homeland security, know that there are many other professional staff and support opportunities within DHS that do not have an age limit, including:
- Emergency management
- Government information
- Information technology
- Intelligence operations
- Transportation security
There are also numerous jobs in the private sector available to people interested in homeland security and counterterrorism.
Is homeland security a good career?
Whether homeland security is a good career depends on what you value.
Many people in homeland security are employed by the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The DHS's mission is to secure the nation from the many threats it faces. If this is a mission you believe in, working in homeland security might be a good fit for you.
Another advantage of working for DHS are the notoriously great benefits, including job security, vacation and holidays, health coverage and generous retirement benefits.
Some jobs in DHS can require a lot of traveling or even temporary relocation. And considering the stakes in counterterrorism and emergency response, many positions in homeland security are high pressure. If these are conditions you don't mind – or perhaps even thrive in – then working in homeland security could be the career for you.
What falls under the Department of Homeland Security?
The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is a federal executive department responsible for the public security of people in our nation. Agencies under the DHS include:
- United States Citizenship and Immigration Services
- Customs and Border Protection
- Immigration and Customs Enforcement
- Federal Emergency Management Agency
- Transportation Security Administration
- United States Coast Guard
- United States Secret Service
Duties that fall under DHS include detecting and deterring terrorism, securing borders, strengthening cybersecurity, managing immigration and customs, and preventing and responding to disasters.
What degree is needed for homeland security?
A bachelor's degree is often the minimum requirement for roles in homeland security. Depending on what you want to do in the homeland security space, your degree could be in any number of subjects.
From criminal justice and cybersecurity to data analytics and operations management, many backgrounds are needed in homeland security efforts. No matter your area of study or profession, getting a homeland security graduate certificate can help you hone your expertise in counterterrorism.
Southern New Hampshire University's online Advanced Counterterrorism and Homeland Security Graduate Certificate can be finished in less than a year, giving you focused insights that can help you take your career in homeland security further.
How do I become an intelligence analyst?
If you want to become an intelligence analyst for an agency like the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), Secret Service or Transportation Security Administration (TSA), you'll need to start with earning your bachelor's degree.
Don't have your bachelor's? You'll want to study subjects like criminal justice, political science and homeland security. Already have your bachelor's – or even your master's? Consider enrolling in a graduate-level homeland security certificate program.
Southern New Hampshire University offers the Advanced Counterterrorism and Homeland Security Graduate Certificate. This 4-course (12-credit) program is an affordable way to gain expertise in the realm of homeland security. And with 5 graduate term starts per year, you can easily earn your certificate in a year or less.
Note that intelligence analysts have access to highly classified information. To become an intelligence analyst for a government agency, you'll go through a rigorous selection process that includes a thorough background check.
What degree do you need for counterterrorism?
If you're interested in a career in counterterrorism, there are plenty of degree options for you. Southern New Hampshire University provides 3 counterterrorism and homeland security degrees online to help you achieve your goals.
Whether you have criminal justice experience or are looking to break into the field, the homeland security degree concentration is a great choice for anyone with an interest in counterterrorism.
Already have a bachelor's degree? No matter your academic subject background, earning your master's in criminal justice with a concentration in advanced counterterrorism could give you new insights to help you hone your expertise.
The Graduate Certificate in Advanced Counterterrorism & Homeland Security is a great way to get master's-level knowledge without committing to a full graduate degree program. Even better? The graduate certificate stacks right into the master's program, meaning if you later decide you want to complete the full graduate degree, you'll be well on your way.
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Sources & Citations
1Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/protective-service/police-and-detectives.htm (viewed Apr. 19, 2024).
Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.