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Homeland Security and Counterterrorism Online Degree Concentration Within the BS in Criminal Justice Program
You're viewing a Program Concentration
Total courses 4 (of 40)
Term length 8 weeks
Concentration Overview Why focus on homeland security and counterterrorism?
As part of your bachelor's degree in criminal justice, a concentration adds focus to your degree in a particular area of study. So, if you're passionate about combatting terrorism or plan to work on the front lines of national security, choosing a concentration in homeland security and counterterrorism is a great place to start.
In the Bachelor of Science (BS) in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Homeland Security and Counterterrorism program at Southern New Hampshire University, you'll dive deep into our specialized curriculum to gain a strong understanding of terrorism threats and effective response strategies.
Skills you'll learn:
- Intelligence gathering
- Interpretation tactics
- Counterterrorism responses
- Human motivation theory
- Behavior analysis
- Policy comprehension
Courses & Curriculum Career-focused homeland security and counterterrorism courses
In your Bachelor of Science (BS) in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Homeland Security and Counterterrorism program, you'll examine current theories in public safety, learn about the history of espionage and study the roles and responsibilities of maintaining safety for all citizens. Through hands-on coursework, you'll learn how to apply these theories to real-world scenarios.
Your 4-course homeland security and counterterrorism concentration explained
Your entire BS in Criminal Justice degree consists of 40 courses (120 credits) which includes general education courses, major courses, major elective courses and free electives. If you choose this concentration, your 4 major elective courses will focus specifically on homeland security and counterterrorism. You'll delve into the nuances of psychology, criminal law and subjects specific to counterintelligence, security, terrorism and national trends.
Courses may include:
Introduction to Homeland Security and Counterterrorism
Course ID:
CJ 310
Students will differentiate between homeland security and counterterrorism to determine organizations' roles and responsibilities in maintaining the safety of citizens. In addition, students will analyze how terrorism has influenced the creation and evolution of the Department of Homeland Security as well as how it has impacted United States society.
Intelligence and Counterintelligence
Course ID:
CJ 350
Through the examination of the history behind and benefits of espionage and counterintelligence, students will develop an understanding of the methods used to gather and analyze intelligence. Students will also explore how governments and corporations within the United States utilize intelligence and counterintelligence to maintain safety, inform policy, and benefit business.
Terrorism in the United States
Course ID:
CJ 360
Students will examine the influences of ideology and culture on domestic acts of terror and the historical evolution of homegrown terrorism. As these concepts are examined, students will analyze domestic and international terrorist organizations as well as how acts of terror impact society.
Security Management
Course ID:
CJ 405
Students will be exposed to security management techniques and methods used to maintain public safety. Through the exploration of asset and vulnerability identification, students will analyze the value of security partnerships, emerging trends in safety and emergency management, and how history has shaped current practice.
Visit the course catalog to view the full BS in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Homeland Security and Counterterrorism curriculum.
The Commons: SNHU’s gen ed program
All undergraduate students are required to take general education courses, which are part of SNHU's newly redesigned program, The Commons. The goal of The Commons' curriculum is to empower you with some of the most in-demand skills, so you can succeed not only in your academic career, but in your personal and professional life too.
Courses may include:
Cultural Awareness and Online Learning
Course ID:
IDS 105
This course introduces students to the skills relevant to university learning, and the foundational knowledge and values of intercultural fluency needed to understand and effectively navigate the complexities of contemporary society. Students will examine the various factors that influence an individual's perception of justice and the impacts that cultural and social diversity have on collaboration and communication processes. Through the application of interpersonal communication strategies, students will also learn to navigate various interpersonal conflict situations.
Self, Society, and the Humanities
Course ID:
HUM 102
In this course, students explore the interaction between individuals and society as a framework for understanding cultural inquiry. Through the examination of the scientific, creative, cultural, and historical humanities, students develop a practice of reflexivity to describe conceptions of self, others, and systems and their interconnectedness.
Foundations of Written Communication
Course ID:
ENG 130
This course focuses on written communication and writing practice. Students will gain the critical reading and information literacy related skills vital to academic and workplace success. Students will explore methods to analyze, summarize, and evaluate written works to isolate key ideas and information. Students will examine how to adapt the writing process to a variety of writing situations and present their own perspectives in written form.
Mathematical Reasoning for Modern Problem-Solving
Course ID:
MAT 126
In this course, students learn about the use of mathematical reasoning and the practical application of quantitative techniques to inform their decision-making process. Students will develop the skills to critically examine elements of a problem they might face in their day-to-day personal and professional lives, solve for various outcomes using quantitative techniques, and make informed decisions.
Ethics in Global Society
Course ID:
PHL 218
In this course, students explore various ethical frameworks from a cultural and global perspective. Students examine the ways that ethics influence actions, decisions, and perceptions. Furthermore, students develop associated skills related to critical thinking, such as awareness of bias, to analyze issues from an ethical standpoint.
STEM Principles and Problem-Solving
Course ID:
SCI 260
In this course, students learn to apply science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) methodologies to a wide variety of contemporary issues and complex challenges within society to obtain knowledge and use that knowledge to develop recommendations and propose solutions. Students will leverage a scientific mindset to gather information, analyze data, and communicate information in varying ways based on their intended audience.
Social Issues and Decision-Making
Course ID:
SCS 260
In this course, students use social science methodologies to analyze various sociocultural issues and their impacts on society. In their exploration of the concept of society and how it manifests in different cultures, students learn to contextualize themselves within society, examine the relationship between the individual and society, and analyze the ethical implications of decision-making related to contemporary social issues.
Minimum Specifications:
- CPU: Intel Core i7 12th Gen or AMD Ryzen 7 5000 series
- GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3070 (Laptop GPU) or AMD Radeon RX 6750M+
- RAM: 16GB DDR4 (32GB recommended for multitasking and creative work)
- Storage: 512GB NVMe SSD (1TB recommended for longevity)
- Display: 15.6” FHD (1920x1080), 60Hz+ (QHD optional for creative/visual work)
- OS: Windows 11 Home or Pro
- Internet/bandwidth: 5Mbps download, 1Mbps 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.
- Where to purchase: You may purchase any computer brand you wish from any location/reseller, relying on the minimum specs provided to ensure the acquisition of an appropriate machine. We recommend asking your preferred vendor if they offer a student discount, since many do.
- Mac users: You must verify your machine offers comparable specs.
- Devices that don’t meet minimum requirements: 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.
- Microsoft Office software: Office 365 is available to all students for free. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion.
- Antivirus software: This is strongly recommended for online students. Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.
Licensure & 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.
Have a background in law enforcement training?
If you've completed a basic police, corrections, or probation and parole academy training, you may receive up to 12 credits toward your criminal justice degree at SNHU. This will save you time (and money!) on your way to graduation.
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: June 29, 2026 | August 31, 2026
Next term starts:
May 4, 2026
Online Student Experience What’s it like going to SNHU?
Attending college online at SNHU can be a life-changing experience. In fact, 93.4% of online students would recommend SNHU according to a 2025 survey with 8,718 respondents.
What to expect:
8-week terms
Learn around your schedule
24/7 online support
Learn from instructors with industry experience
Our faculty members 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
Brian Rich
Before joining SNHU as an adjunct instructor in criminal justice, Brian Rich spent more than 20 years as a police officer, detective and special agent in the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Public Corruption and Evidence Response Team.
Position
Adjunct Professor - Criminal Justice
Joined SNHU
2018
"Very few things in life are more important than seeking development and growth in yourself. Education is one of those pillar accomplishments. SNHU is well founded. The classes are structured around content and quality dialogue."
Read more about Brian Rich and other online faculty at SNHU.
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.
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 250,000 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.
Online undergraduate tuition
Student
Cost per credit
Cost per course
Cost for 120-credit degree*
Full- and part-time students
$342
$1,026
$41,040
Active-duty military and spouses | Full- and part-time students**
$250
$750
$30,000
*before previously earned credits are applied
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.
Transfer credits and lower your cost by:
$10,260 $15,390 $20,520 $25,650 $30,780If 30 of your prior learning credits ($342/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $30,780
If 45 of your prior learning credits ($342/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $25,650
If 60 of your prior learning credits ($342/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $20,520
If 75 of your prior learning credits ($342/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $15,390
If 90 of your prior learning credits ($342/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $10,260
How we estimate your tuition cost:
We look at the cost per credit multiplied by the number of credits you need to earn for a bachelor's degree. Most bachelor's degrees require 120 credits. SNHU allows you to transfer in up to 90 credits, requiring a minimum of 30 credits to be taken at SNHU. This is only a tuition estimator, and doesn't account for other fees that may be associated with your program of choice.
Ways to save on online tuition
Transfer your credits
Transfer up to 90 credits toward your bachelor's degree program at SNHU. If you’ve taken one course or many, we’ll evaluate them for you.
Apply for financial aid
Fill out the FAFSA to see if you’re eligible for grants or work-study. (You could also be offered loans, though you’ll have to pay those back later.)
Military discounts and credit
Earn credits in leadership, technology and more – while taking advantage of tuition discounts for active-duty service members and spouses.
Explore scholarships
Getting free money for college – from SNHU or an outside organization – could help you save hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Earn credit for exams and certificates
Bring in credits from popular options like CLEP, Sophia Learning, Google and other common credit for prior learning (CPL) experiences.
Tuition Reimbursement
Learn how you can save money with tuition reimbursement from your employer.
Benefit from your employer
Take advantage of an online tuition discount through your organization’s partnership with SNHU. Check with your employer to see if your organization partners with us and if you’re eligible for additional tuition savings and partner education benefits.
Career Outlook What can I do with my concentration in homeland security and counterterrorism?
The BS in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Homeland Security and Counterterrorism can lead to a number of exciting career options in the public and private sectors. As the use and reach of technology increases, there's a greater need for actionable, reliable people to identify national security threats. SNHU also offers an Advanced Counterterrorism and Homeland Security Graduate Certificate, should you choose to continue your education after completing your bachelor's degree.
Occupations
Your concentration in homeland security and counterterrorism can help prepare you for a variety of roles. It's important to note that law enforcement positions may involve additional 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.
Border Patrol Agent
Secure U.S. borders, detect terrorist threats, and prevent trafficking of people and contraband.
Federal Air Marshal
Protect airline passengers and crew members. Investigate and fight terrorist and criminal activity.
Transportation Security Officer
Keep the public safe by screening passengers and luggage at controlled airport entrances and exits.
Emergency Management Director
Work for FEMA to coordinate relief for disasters, like extreme weather events and terrorist attacks.
3%
Increase nationally in roles for police and detectives through 2032, projected by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).1
$74,910
Median annual pay nationally for police and detectives as of May 2023, according to the BLS.1 Statistic not based on wage data for SNHU graduates.
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 are based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data, not on SNHU graduate outcomes, and do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.
What SNHU students are saying
Working in the legal system for roughly 9 years before starting my program, I thought I knew a lot. However, this was quickly disproven as my coursework started and the theories began to roll.
Vince Farrell '21
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a BS in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Homeland Security and Counterterrorism worth it?
Whether or not the degree is "worth it" ultimately depends on your personal goals, but a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Homeland Security and Counterterrorism could lead to careers like:
- Intelligence analyst: Examine patterns throughout multiple pieces of data and information. You may use that information to prevent attacks and assess threats to your organization, an individual or the American public. You might work for a private business or for the government at the local, state or federal level.
- Border patrol officer: Monitor and protect the nation’s borders. You may work to ensure that illegal drugs and goods do not come into the country. You could also be involved in enforcing immigration efforts.
- Secret service agent: This law enforcement role offers a great deal of variety in terms of assignment. You may investigate counterfeiting crimes, protect persons of interest to the federal government – such as political officials – or you could even be involved in developing new security systems and tools.
- Federal air marshal: This is a unique law enforcement position where you might find yourself on board an aircraft or working in an airport to keep private citizens safe in the skies. You could also investigate crimes and provide other law enforcement duties.
- Counterterrorism analyst: Investigate the leadership and motivations of possible terrorist groups. Your work may include report writing and analysis, so strong communication and critical-thinking skills are key.
- Emergency management director: Prepare procedures and devise plans for law enforcement and public officials to use in response to natural disasters and other emergencies. Strong negotiation, communication and analytical skills are helpful in this role.
You may also be interested in a government career with agencies such as the U.S. Department of Defense, U.S. State Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation or Central Intelligence Agency.
These are just a few of the exciting and important opportunities potentially available if you earn a BS in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Homeland Security and Counterterrorism. Each career is grounded in the principles of safety, security and the well-being of people.
Learn more about what you can do with a concentration in homeland security and counterterrorism.
How long does it take to get a concentration in homeland security and counterterrorism?
Most people looking to get into the homeland security field pursue a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, which usually takes between 3 and 4 years to complete.
At Southern New Hampshire University, you have the option to specialize your criminal justice bachelor's degree by choosing a concentration in homeland security and counterterrorism. Even better? If you qualify, you could receive up to 12 credits toward your degree if you've already completed basic police, corrections or parole and probation academy training. Plus, if you've taken college classes elsewhere, you could transfer up to 90 credits to SNHU — saving you even more time and money.
"I did transfer in a few credits, and I received credits for my active-duty U.S. Army experience," said Vince Farrell '21. "I was able to complete my associate degree in roughly 1 year and my bachelor's degree in 2 years. The process was much quicker than I anticipated and couldn’t have been smoother."
SNHU's professional team of admission and academic advisors aims to get you the maximum amount of transfer credit, so you can complete your degree as quickly as possible.
And our fully online format allows you even more room to customize your education. Work the night shift? Not a problem. No set class times means you can complete your work day or night. You’ll generally receive feedback from your instructors within 24 hours, too.
"Working full time and volunteering within my community made online coursework my only viable option," said Farrell. "The fact that SNHU uses such an easily navigable program made a world of difference – I was able to identify my assignments, had full access to the online Shapiro Library (which is a phenomenal resource) and could effectively complete my assignments."
Learn more about how online classes work.
How much do homeland security agents make?
Because responsibilities within homeland security roles can vary greatly, how much you earn is dependent on your role, title and experience. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, federally employed police and detectives earned a median annual salary of $75,570 in May 2023.1
At Southern New Hampshire University, you have the added benefit of learning from professionals in the field. Our instructors are criminal justice professionals, which can be beneficial for networking opportunities.
What's the difference between homeland security and criminal justice?
All aspects of law enforcement are part of the criminal justice system, including the court system and law enforcement officers. However, homeland security is a relatively new area under the criminal justice umbrella.
While studying criminal justice helps prepare you for a career in all facets of the law and public safety, the field of homeland security is a subset of national security and focuses specifically on the U.S.
A background in criminal justice can prepare you for the legal, communication, criminal and technical aspects of the field. Adding a concentration in homeland security and counterterrorism means specializing in counterterrorism, intelligence and all aspects of national security.
What degree do you need for counterterrorism?
While there's no hard and fast rule, having a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or a related field could be very helpful in your pursuit of a counterterrorism career. International affairs, national security studies or a concentration in homeland security are all areas that can also help prepare you for roles in this specialized area of law enforcement.
Additionally, practical experience is important, since many working in this field have military or national security backgrounds.
What is a concentration?
At colleges and universities, a concentration is a focused area of study within a larger degree program. A concentration generally replaces elective coursework in the major or discipline, allowing students to focus their studies on an area of interest.
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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 March 20, 2024).
Cited projections may not reflect local or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.