The homeland security concentration within the MA program in emergency management and homeland security is focused on homeland security as a field, applicable to all levels of government (federal, state and local) and to positions in private sector organizations with functional and operational skills related to organizational security.

Students gain an essential understanding of the public policy and practice on homeland security and homeland defense issues, with an emphasis on policy analysis and program evaluation, leadership, management, use of technology interagency and cross-sector collaboration. Further, it leverages international partners in Australia and the United Kingdom through the PLuS Alliance for additional course offerings.

Students in the program serve and promote stronger and more resilient communities across public, private or nonprofit sector organizations. The program emphasizes a blended approach of practical knowledge and broader integrative thinking about the complex societal challenges of the 21st century. Its core values of collaboration between practitioners, faculty and students; public service; commitment to diversity; critical thinking and evidence-based assessment are all central to promoting informed and effective leadership.