Anywhere you look these days, whether in the paper, on the news, or even the next table over at your favorite restaurant, it seems that everyone is talking about terrorism. As the threat of another attack grows, so does the need for people trained in counter terrorism. The Department of Homeland Security is responsible for protecting the country from terrorists and other threats. But what are some of the possible jobs in counter terrorism and homeland security, and what exactly does it take to join this growing field?

Types of Jobs in Counter Terrorism

As with any type of crime, terrorism may happen at any level of society, and may be domestic or foreign in origin. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) contains several branches which investigate and handle potential threats to national security. As a result, people trained in counter terrorism have the potential option of careers in numerous parts of law enforcement and government. Some of these possible employers include:

• Local or Federal law enforcement agencies as well as private security firms investigate domestic threats, such as bomb warnings, narcotics, and even cyber terrorism.
• U.S. Customs and border patrol deal with managing all traffic into and out of the country. Immigration similarly must process individuals seeking citizenship or asylum. These organizations are responsible for identifying illegal immigrants, dangerous people or materials, and detainment and deportation.
• The U.S. Secret Service handles security for diplomats as well as being involved with investigating potential threats at major international events such as the Olympics.
• FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) is responsible for rebuilding and investigating disasters. In cases where entire communities have been displaced by a natural disaster, the need to provide for the security of supplies and displaced citizens also falls upon their shoulders.
• Mission Support Careers - In addition to major organizations such as the Coast Guard, the DHS has potential careers in many smaller fields which an individual trained in counter terrorism might choose. These careers may involve everything from law enforcement training to cyber security and even civil rights. You may choose a career in fraud detection, intelligence, public affairs, communication, or human resources.

What Skills Are Required to Work in Counter Terrorism?

All jobs in counter terrorism require training in a number of skills. Critical thinking skills are needed to evaluate evidence in arguments related to criminal justice and determine if that evidence is sufficient. As an agent or officer, you will need to be able to analyze the behavior of individuals, as well as the impact that behavior has on crime. This involves the use of scientific inquiry and methods when analyzing issues.

In addition, you will need to be able to propose effective solutions in the event sensitive data has been compromised. You must also be able to meet operational requirements of the criminal justice system while integrating an ethical group dynamic. Understanding the various legal hurdles counter terrorism agents must face is vital to maintaining civil rights during investigations.

What Sort of Counter Terrorism Training is Needed?

By pursuing a bachelor’s in criminal justice, you will be able to focus on homeland security. This training gives you the ability to follow surveillance and security principles in order to gather intelligence and protect the nation's infrastructure. You will also learn about the various legal issues that surround homeland security, their policies, and procedures. Finally, you could learn about the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and how it's applied.

In a homeland security program, you could gain knowledge and skills in a variety of areas. You may learn about international ideologies and effective multi-cultural communication. Knowledge in security, investigations, and surveillance are complimented with training in terrorism and counter terrorism.

Ecpi 2day to get started on my bachelors degree in criminal justice/homeland security ... Yeeeeeeeeah

— Isaac Avent (@eye_zik32685) December 6, 2011

Pursuing a Degree in Homeland Security

Many jobs in counter terrorism require a comprehensive education. If you are interested in pursuing a career in homeland security or one of its many subsidiary branches, you could benefit from programs such as ECPI University's Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Homeland Security. Our comprehensive program is designed to prepare you for potential employment in as little as two and a half years. Contact ECPI today to discuss the program and how you may get your start in the growing field of counter terrorism! It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!

DISCLAIMER – ECPI University makes no claim, warranty or guarantee as to actual employability or earning potential to current, past or future students or graduates of any educational program we offer. The ECPI University website is published for informational purposes only. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information contained on the ECPI.edu domain; however, no warranty of accuracy is made. No contractual rights, either expressed or implied, are created by its content.

Gainful Employment Information – Homeland Security - Bachelor’s

For more information about ECPI University or any of our programs click here: http://www.ecpi.edu/ or http://ow.ly/Ca1ya.