Online Master of Arts in Homeland Security: Counterterrorism Digital Forensics, Master's
Overview
Students in the MAHS: Counterterrorism Digital Forensics program are typically interested in working for the Department of Homeland Security, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), FBI, or NSA, among others.
The emphasis of the program is on understanding terrorism, investigative techniques, and digital forensic techniques. Students may also consider pursuing a concentration in Counterterrorism Investigations, or the option of no concentration.
- Our faculty are nationally-recognized professionals in the field. You’ll be taught by professionally active advanced practice faculty who connect textbook theory with real-world application of tools, processes, and methodologies.
- The flexibility of online. Our online format allows you to continue your professional work while obtaining the skills needed to advance your career.
- DeSales University’s Center for Homeland Security provides hands-on, science-based, and practitioner-informed training, research, and educational opportunities.
Admissions Requirements
Admissions to the MAHS program are on a rolling basis, with no standardized exam requirements.
Requirements for admission are:
- A bachelor’s degree from a college or university accredited by one of the six regional accrediting bodies (Middle States, New England, North Central, Northwest, Southern, and Western Association of Schools and Colleges) or its equivalent from a foreign institution with a cumulative G.P.A. of 3.0 or higher
- Background or interest in the field of criminal justice or homeland security.
- Two (2) Letters of recommendation
Applicants who lack one or more requirements may be admitted to the program on a provisional basis. Individuals with special needs or goals may be considered for admission to the program.
International applicants must contact Leslie Bartholomew, Designated School Official, at 610-282-1100, ext. 1859 or Leslie.Bartholomew@desales.edu to inquire about international admission requirements.
Start Dates: See Academic Calendar
Application Information
- Deadline: Rolling
- Standardized Exam Required: No
- Official Transcripts Required: Yes
- Personal Statement Required: No
- Letters of Recommendation: 2 Required for MAHS, none for Certificate Program
- Resume Required: No
Curriculum
The MAHS program consists of 10 classes.
6 Core Required Courses (18 credits)
- HS 501 Foundations of Homeland Security
- CJ 502 Research Methods
- CJ 503 Privacy, Ethics, Diversity and Human Rights
- HS 505 Contemporary Issues in Homeland Security
- HS 507 Capstone (Master Project Seminar)
- HS 550 Advanced Counterterrorism
4 Concentration Courses (12 Credits)
- CJ/HS 508 Investigation of Terrorism
- CJ 536 Digital Investigation and Evidence Collection
- CJ 537 Forensic Acquisition and Analysis
- CJ 538 Network and Cloud Forensics
Total: 10 courses (30 credits)
Academic Catalog
Tuition & Fees
Program Costs
- Tuition/credit hour: $850*
- Graduation Fee: $120
Total cost of the Master's Degree program = $25,500
Total cost of the Graduate Certificate Programs = $10,200
*Tuition/credit hours listed are for 2024/2025 academic year. Tuition and fees are reviewed each academic year and are subject to change with notice.
- Returned Check Service: $30
- Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) fee – 30% of course tuition charge
Note: Tuition and fees are reviewed each academic year and are subject to change with notice.
View a comprehensive list of financial aid forms and graduate program information sheets
More information
DeSales University is proud to offer actively employed criminal justice professionals a 20% tuition discount for this Master's level program.*
This discount covers tuition only, and is not applicable towards textbooks or other fees.
The Center for Homeland Security (CHS)
20% Tuition Discount
DeSales University is proud to offer actively employed criminal justice, homeland security, first responder, and emergency management professionals a 20% tuition discount for this Master's level program.*
*This discount covers tuition only, and is not applicable towards textbooks or other fees.
Online Learning at DeSales
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