An education in homeland security can take many forms, but the overall goal is the same: to protect this country and its citizens. With education, training, and experience in homeland security, you’ll be able to identify dangers to the country’s safety, stop or mitigate these threats, and make real changes that bring enhanced security. The programs in this list of the cheapest online master’s in homeland security combine many disciplines, including crime investigation, emergency preparedness, disaster management, cybercrime, and much more.
Once complete, graduates are prepared for many occupations, including emergency response manager, information security analyst, scientific researcher, and security director. These programs also open the doors to law enforcement careers, including leadership roles and positions with the federal government.
We have identified 107 programs from 71 accredited colleges and universities. These programs have numerous specialization options and often come with affordable prices.
ARTICLE NAVIGATION: Rankings Table | Career Guide
Average Cost: $27,400
Least Expensive (In-State): University of Central Florida – $11,784
Least Expensive (Out-of-State): Arkansas State University – $12,240
The 53 Cheapest Online Master’s in Homeland Security
| Rank | School / Degree | State | Price | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | University of Central Florida | (FL) | $11,784.00 $41,462.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
2 | Arkansas State University | (AR) | $12,240.00 | All Students |
3 | Angelo State University | (TX) | $14,162.00 $29,282.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
4 | Northwestern State University of Louisiana | (LA) | $14,250.00 | All Students |
5 | Arkansas Tech University | (AR) | $14,841.00 | All Students |
6 | Stephen F. Austin State University | (TX) | $15,026.00 $28,886.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
7 | Jacksonville State University | (AL) | $15,162.00 $10,002.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
8 | Auburn University at Montgomery | (AL) | $15,170.00 $16,520.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
9 | University of South Florida | (FL) | $15,227.00 $29,937.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
10 | Oklahoma State University | (OK) | $16,137.00 $17,490.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
11 | Missouri State University | (MO) | $16,164.00 | All Students |
12 | Idaho State University | (ID) | $16,920.00 | All Students |
13 | Lander University | (SC) | $17,025.00 | All Students |
14 | University of Missouri-Columbia | (MO) | $17,250.00 | All Students |
15 | University of New Hampshire | (NH) | $17,430.00 $19,530.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
16 | Wilmington University | (DE) | $17,512.00 | All Students |
17 | University of Florida | (FL) | $17,513.00 $41,429.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
18 | CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice | (NY) | $17,530.00 $20,950.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
19 | The University of Texas at El Paso | (TX) | $17,640.00 $20,700.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
20 | Averett University | (VA) | $17,930.00 | All Students |
21 |  Liberty University | (VA) | $17,947.00 $8,350.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
22 | Southwestern College - Kansas | (KS) | $18,000.00 $16,200.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
23 | University of Massachusetts-Lowell | (MA) | $18,090.00 | All Students |
24 | Millersville University of Pennsylvania | (PA) | $18,150.00 | All Students |
25 | University of Alaska Fairbanks | (AK) | $18,600.00 | All Students |
26 | CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice | (NY) | $19,042.00 $22,462.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
27 | Wayland Baptist University | (TX) | $19,888.00 | All Students |
28 | New England College | (NH) | $20,736.00 | All Students |
29 | Excelsior University | (NY) | $21,450.00 $10,290.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
30 | Sam Houston State University | (TX) | $21,543.00 | All Students |
31 | Liberty University | (VA) | $21,636.00 $10,000.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
32 | Tiffin University | (OH) | $21,800.00 $10,550.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
33 | Anna Maria College | (MA) | $22,209.00 | All Students |
34 | University of Colorado Denver | (CO) | $22,254.00 $26,538.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
35 | Eastern Kentucky University | (KY) | $22,896.00 | All Students |
36 |  Southern New Hampshire University | (NH) | $22,932.00 $16,920.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
37 | Lasell University | (MA) | $23,364.00 | All Students |
38 | Towson University | (MD) | $24,084.00 $43,560.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
39 | Mississippi College | (MS) | $24,200.00 $11,250.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
40 | Bellevue University | (NE) | $24,464.00 | All Students |
41 | Thomas Edison State University | (NJ) | $24,598.00 | All Students |
42 | Nichols College | (MA) | $24,600.00 | All Students |
43 |  Fairleigh Dickinson University | (NJ) | $24,601.00 | All Students |
44 | University of Arizona | (AZ) | $24,712.00 | All Students |
45 | Point Park University | (PA) | $24,840.00 | All Students |
46 | DeSales University | (PA) | $24,870.00 | All Students |
47 | Pace University | (NY) | $24,915.00 | All Students |
48 | Saint Joseph's University | (PA) | $25,350.00 | All Students |
49 | Citadel Military College of South Carolina | (SC) | $25,680.00 | All Students |
50 | Nova Southeastern University | (FL) | $26,272.00 | All Students |
51 | Saint Louis University | (MO) | $26,470.00 | All Students |
52 | Embry Riddle Aeronautical University | (FL) | $26,798.00 $22,475.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
53 | Adelphi University | (NY) | $27,390.00 | All Students |
| School / Degree | State | Price | Note | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Virginia Commonwealth University | (VA) | $27,614.00 $55,906.00 | In-State Out-of-State | |
Regent University | (VA) | $27,820.00 | All Students | |
Nova Southeastern University | (FL) | $28,980.00 | All Students | |
Endicott College | (MA) | $29,324.00 | All Students | |
University of New England | (ME) | $29,680.00 | All Students | |
Florida International University | (FL) | $31,350.00 | All Students | |
George Mason University | (VA) | $32,217.00 $60,585.00 | In-State Out-of-State | |
Nova Southeastern University | (FL) | $32,280.00 | All Students | |
University of Maryland-College Park | (MD) | $33,300.00 | All Students | |
Pennsylvania State University | (PA) | $33,561.00 | All Students | |
Mercyhurst University | (PA) | $34,884.00 | All Students | |
 National University | (CA) | $37,800.00 | All Students | |
University of New Haven | (CT) | $37,980.00 | All Students | |
Northeastern University | (MA) | $38,250.00 | All Students | |
Tulane University | (LA) | $40,302.00 | All Students | |
Long Island University | (NY) | $42,596.00 | All Students | |
The George Washington University | (DC) | $47,633.00 | All Students | |
Worcester Polytechnic Institute | (MA) | $48,300.00 | All Students | |
Georgetown University | (DC) | $51,909.00 | All Students | |
University of Southern California | (CA) | $54,023.00 | All Students | |
St. John's University | (NY) | $54,640.00 | All Students | |
 Johns Hopkins University | (MD) | $56,740.00 | All Students | |
Johns Hopkins University | (MD) | $57,460.00 | All Students | |
 American University | (DC) | $69,592.00 | All Students | |
The George Washington University | (DC) | $85,195.00 | All Students |
Methodology for Rankings of the Cheapest Online Master’s in Homeland Security
These rankings of online homeland security master’s programs are based on our spring 2024 review of degrees. In order to calculate the total cost, we use a variety of factors including minimum required credit hours, tuition rates, and general fees. At the time of collection, the information was valid and specific to the individual program. Profiles for the same degrees found in the directory on our site may, on occasion, reflect a different cost based on editorial update schedules.
The published cost is an estimated total price for the entire degree, but actual costs will vary by student. For example, if you have transfer credits, your cost may be lower. Prerequisite courses, textbook fees, licensing requirements, financial aid, and numerous other factors can impact the price of an online homeland security master’s degree.
We strive to create the most honest, accurate ranking system possible. Therefore, we do not accept payments from schools to be included or removed from our rankings. The rankings are open to any regionally-accredited public or nonprofit college or university that offers an online homeland security degree program. We do not include degrees from non-accredited, nationally-accredited, or for-profit schools in our rankings. We also exclude from our rankings degrees that are available less than 80% online and those that are only available to students in five states or fewer.
Program Note: In order to qualify for a ranking, the online homeland security program must be regionally accredited. Additional programmatic accreditation is noted in the rank table. Degrees labeled with superscript 14 indicate that options for this program have changed since publication.
Why Choose One of the Cheapest Online Master’s in Homeland Security?
From steady careers to essential work keeping the country safe, there are many reasons to consider a degree in homeland security. Here are some of the top motivations for seeking this important degree:
- Strong pay and benefits: Emergency management directors, a common career for graduates of these programs, have a median salary of $83,960 while the top 10% earn over $151,000. With a master’s in homeland security online, you’ll be prepared for a high-paying career.
- Protect the United States: Salary is not the only reason to become a security and emergency response expert. With one of these degrees, you’ll also be ready to protect your country and serve a higher purpose.
- Help people when they need it most: After completing a degree in homeland security, especially if you focus on emergency management, you can help people after floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires, and more.
- Skills needed all across the county: Whether you want to live in a major city or a rural area, you can find employment with one of these degrees.
Homeland Security Master’s Degrees: Program Cost
Cost shouldn’t be the only consideration when you search for an online master’s degree in homeland security, but it’s certainly important. You must find a program that fits your budget, which is why this database is so helpful.
We have identified 107 programs, including 71 programs that are below the database average of $27,400. If you need an affordable online master’s in homeland security, start your search with these low-cost degrees.
The cheapest online master’s degree in homeland security is the Master of Emergency & Crisis Management from the University of Central Florida. This program has a total in-state cost of $11,784, the lowest price in our database.
If you are not in the state of Florida, the most affordable option is the Master of Science in Disaster Preparedness & Emergency Management from Arkansas State University. This program has an estimated cost of $12,240 for both in and out-of-state students.
The most expensive option in this database is the Master of Arts in Security Policy Studies from The George Washington University. This program has an estimated cost of $85,195, making it far and away the most expensive. The second most expensive is the Master of Science in Counter-Terrorism & Homeland Security from American University, which has an estimated cost of $69,592, roughly $15,600 less than the previous program.
The cheapest online master’s degree in homeland security will typically come from an in-state public college or university. If budget is a priority, start your search with homeland security programs in your state.
Who Offers the Most Affordable Homeland Security Master’s Degrees?
There are numerous affordable options. Here are three examples of the most affordable programs in this database:
#1. University of Central Florida
Degree: Master of Emergency & Crisis Management
Cost: $11,784 (In-state)
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
This is the cheapest program in the database, but don’t confuse low price with low quality. This is an elite master’s program that builds your knowledge of emergency management and crisis response, helping to mitigate the effects of natural and man-made disasters.
The curriculum emphasizes ethical and practical issues surrounding emergency and crisis response. Students complete 30 hours of coursework through two years of study, and there is an opportunity for hands-on experience with an internship. A capstone course combines all the knowledge and skills developed throughout the program.
#2. Arkansas State University
Degree: Master of Science in Disaster Preparedness & Emergency Management
Cost: $12,240 (All students)
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Students from all corners of the country can complete this degree with a total cost below $13,000. This makes it a popular option for anyone who wants to become an expert in disaster preparedness and emergency management. Students are trained to prevent and mitigate disasters while overseeing the broad response to emergencies.
Online students with Arkansas State can leverage numerous resources, including tech support that ensures complete access to all coursework. There is also a vast library of online resources, which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
#3. Angelo State University
Degree: Master of Security Studies in Intelligence, Security Studies & Analysis
Cost: $14,162 (In-state, Texas)
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Texas residents with a bachelor’s degree and experience in homeland security, intelligence gathering, or national security can enroll in this affordable online master program from Angelo State University. The degree has a focus on intelligence, with coursework in advanced intelligence gathering, intelligence analysis, and the practice of intelligence for homeland security policies. Students can select either a thesis or non-thesis option.
Angelo State University has an online platform that allows students to complete coursework at their own pace. The school is a well-established online institution, with programs ranging from bachelor’s to doctorates, as well as certificates and certifications.
Master Degree Program Types
Selecting the best degree for your future can be difficult. It helps to understand the various types, as well as the numerous specializations and concentrations. First, let’s examine the different types.
Master of Science
A master of science is dedicated to the research and scientific study of homeland security. It usually builds a student’s expertise in research, data collection, and experimentation. In homeland security, these degrees may focus on learning or studying the best ways to enhance security.
Master of Emergency and Crisis Management
This is a career-specific program that builds a student’s understanding of emergency and crisis management. It focuses on the direct skills needed for success in these careers and may include coursework in managing emergencies, crisis management, and disaster planning.
Master of Art
This post-graduate degree is generally broader in subject matter, allowing students to explore their creativity and academic skills. Critical thinking, theory, and philosophy are often parts of a master of arts degree. For example, the Master of Arts in International Crime & Justice from CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice includes courses such as “International Crime and Justice Theory,” and “Crime, Justice and Cultural Struggles.”
Master of Security Studies
This is another career-specific graduate degree. Directed towards local, national, and global security, these degrees may include coursework in threat identification, intelligence analysis, homeland security issues, federal law enforcement.
Choosing a Concentration
While most master’s in homeland security online programs require two years of study, some may require more or less time. A homeland security program can also come with a concentration, which impacts what you study and what jobs are available after graduation.
Specializations in this database include:
- Homeland security
- Emergency management
- Emergency preparedness
- International crime
- International security
- Counterterrorism
- Cyber threat analytics
- Applied intelligence
- Policy studies
Accreditation for Homeland Security Master’s Programs
A typical homeland security master’s degree online requires two years of study and, on average, about $27,000 in tuition, fees, and other expenses. How can you be certain that your time and energy are well spent? You can start by making sure the school is accredited by a regional accrediting body.
Accreditation is a review system for academia. Schools (and programs) become accredited by passing certain standards set by specific organizations. When a school is accredited, it has met a high standard for coursework, instructor skills, graduate outcomes, and more.
Regional groups typically provide institutional accreditation. These groups include the New England Commission of Higher Education, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, and the Higher Learning Commission, which accredits schools throughout the Midwest and middle portions of the country.
All the programs in this database come from regionally accredited schools. This is one of the requirements to be included in our rankings.
There is also a form of accreditation known as programmatic, which covers only the degree. For example, a journalism degree may be accredited by the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications. However, there is no specific accrediting body for homeland security and emergency management programs. As long as the degree comes from an accredited school, it will deliver a quality education.
Typical Admission Requirements
A master’s degree represents one of the highest levels of scholarly achievement. While most people with a decent academic background can find a program that accepts their application, you still need to go through a rigorous process, one that is more intense and detailed than for a bachelor’s degree.
The first step is a four-year bachelor’s in homeland security, emergency management, investigations, fire services, criminal justice, or a similar subject. Many programs will also have a GPA requirement. You may need a 2.5 or 3.0 GPA to be eligible for the program. Some schools also require professional industry experience.
The required documents usually include a detailed application form, a statement of purpose, and multiple letters of recommendation. A statement of purpose is essentially a personal essay on why you want to complete a master’s in homeland security online and your goals after graduation. The letters of recommendation, which must be written by past instructors and supervisors, should speak to your skills and knowledge in homeland security or a related subject.
While the process is exhaustive, if you have a good academic background and appropriate professional experience, you can likely find a master’s degree that accepts your application.
Licensing, Training, and Experience Requirements
The overall requirements for homeland security and emergency response occupations will depend on the specific position. Most, however, require some form of training, while a select few will require licensing. For instance, if you use these degrees to become a law enforcement leader, you may need academy training and experience.
The position of emergency management director provides another good example. This position, which only requires a bachelor’s, can be enhanced by a master’s degree. Some homeland security agencies may require or prefer homeland security professionals with a master’s degree, but all will require some type of experience. Most need about five years of professional experience, which may include military, law enforcement, fire safety, or emergency management.
Some states and areas require emergency management directors to have certifications or certificates from industry groups. Professionals in this space can become Certified Emergency Managers (CEM) through the International Association of Emergency Managers. The Disaster Recovery Institute International (DRI) also provides certifications and training. These certifications, while voluntary, can notably boost your chances of earning a top-quality job.
Salary and Career Information for Homeland Security and Emergency Management
Emergency management directors earn excellent salaries. The median salary for this career is $83,960. That’s roughly $36,000 more than the median for all occupations. But remember that this career typically only requires a bachelor’s; those with a master’s degree can reasonably expect higher incomes. The top 10% in this profession earn over $151,000. With a master’s degree, you are likely to earn these larger salaries. Directors at the Federal Emergency Management Agency, for example, earn $126,000 to $194,000 per year.
The profession also brings good job stability. Between 2022 and 2032, the Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the number of emergency management directors to grow by 3%, the same expected growth for the entire job market.
Emergency management and homeland security skills are needed in all sections of the country. But Alaska has the highest rate. In this state, there are 0.42 emergency management directors out of 1,000 jobs. South Dakota is #2 with 0.25. Alaska-based professionals also receive good pay. The median income for emergency management directors in this state is $114,330, roughly $20,000 more than the national median.
While the pay and expected growth aren’t the highest on the market, both are average or above in terms of the overall job landscape. Beyond that, homeland security remains an important profession. You may not enter homeland security strictly for the salary, but you’ll be well paid in a steady industry.
How Do I Choose a Good Online Homeland Security Master Program?
With the right plan, you can find the perfect master’s degree in homeland security online for your needs.
Start by using this database to find pricing information on programs from accredited schools. By using our database, you’ll be able to quickly search for in- and out-of-state tuition, making this an easy-to-use option.
If you find a school that looks like a good fit, review the program for the class schedule and delivery format. While most programs on our list are 100% online, some schools require limited in-person attendance, so be aware of this possibility.
With this simple approach, you can find the affordable online master’s in homeland security that is best for your future!