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College of Sciences

Master of Arts in Homeland Security (MAHS)

Our MAHS program is fully online, giving you the flexibility to study full-time or part-time. It offers a hands-on, science-based education informed by practitioners, preparing you for success in one of the fastest-growing industries.

Program Details

Official Degree Name
Master of Arts in Homeland Security
Format
Online
Online
Credit Hours
36
Program Start
Start Anytime
Application Deadline
Apply Anytime
Average Time to Degree
1-3 Years

Why Get Your MAHS Degree at DeSales University?

Pursuing an MAHS degree from DeSales University gives you a unique chance to advance your career in a crucial and evolving field. With specialized concentrations in Counterterrorism Digital Forensics, Counterterrorism Investigations, and Emergency Management, you can tailor your education to your career goals. Our fully online program offers the flexibility to balance work and studies while enhancing your career prospects. Designed by industry experts, our curriculum equips you with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills to succeed in homeland security.

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Program Highlights

Multiple Pathways to Success

  • Our MAHS program offers three concentrations — Counterterrorism Digital Forensics, Counterterrorism Investigations, and Emergency Management—along with two graduate certificates. You can also choose our accelerated five-year Bachelor’s to MAHS degree program if you’re pursuing a relevant major.

Flexible Options

  • With our fully online MAHS program, you can balance your professional work and studies, advancing your career at your own pace. Our rolling admission allows you to start and take courses according to your schedule.

Value and Return on Investment

  • We offer a 20% tuition discount for active professionals in criminal justice, homeland security, first responder, and emergency management. Boost your career in one of the fastest-growing fields by learning from experts in homeland security.

What Will You Study?

All MAHS students must also complete a capstone course that can be satisfied through a master’s thesis, externship in a relevant agency, or policy paper.

Our MAHS curriculum offers hands-on, science-based, and practitioner-informed training, research, and educational opportunities.

Courses you may take include:

  • Foundations of Homeland Security
  • Contemporary Issues in Homeland Security
  • Advanced Counterterrorism
  • Ethics in Criminal Justice

Homeland Security

Meet the Faculty

Ahmet Yayla's headshot
Ahmet Yayla
Associate Professor; Director, Center for Homeland Security
610-282-1100, x1373
210 Brisson
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Concentrations & Certificates

Swipe below to discover more!

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Program Concentrations

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Concentration

Counterterrorism Digital Forensics

An MAHS concentration in Counterterrorism Digital Forensics equips you to prevent and investigate cyberterrorism and threats. You’ll master terrorism, investigative techniques, and digital forensics, preparing you for impactful careers in cybersecurity and government agencies like CISA and NSA.

Required Courses Include

  • Investigation of Terrorism
  • Digital Investigation & Evidence Collection
  • Forensic Acquisition & Analysis
  • Network & Cloud Forensics
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Concentration

Counterterrorism Investigations

Prepare to tackle terrorism with our MAHS concentration in Counterterrorism Investigations. The curriculum covers investigative techniques, intelligence work, terrorist motivations, and response strategies. Graduates are ready to make a difference in government agencies like the FBI, DoD, or DHS.

Required Courses Include

  • Domestic Terrorism & Extremism
  • Investigation of Terrorism
  • Hostage Negotiation
  • Post Blast & Terrorist Attack Crime Scene Investigation
students in classroom

Concentration

Emergency Management

The MAHS concentration in Emergency Management prepares you for a career in disaster response and recovery. With a focus on strategic planning and crisis management, you’ll gain the skills to build resilience, protect communities, and safeguard infrastructure.

Required Courses Include

  • Risk Management & Resilience
  • Disaster & Emergency Management
  • Hostage Negotiation
  • Post Blast & Terrorist Attack Crime Scene Investigation
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category

Graduate Certificates

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Graduate Certificate

Counterterrorism Digital Forensics

 In just four courses, earn a certificate in Counterterrorism Digital Forensics to boost your skills and marketability. Gain the academic and practical expertise for successful counterterrorism investigations using digital forensics. Perfect for career advancement or transitioning into cybersecurity.

Required Courses Include

  • Investigation of Terrorism
  • Advanced Counterterrorism
  • Digital Investigation & Evidence Collection
  • Forensic Acquisition & Analysis
students in classroom

Graduate Certificate

Homeland Security & Counterterrorism Investigations

Boost your career in homeland security with our Graduate Certificate in Homeland Security and Counterterrorism Investigations. In just four courses, you’ll tackle key issues, enhance research and communication skills, and learn high ethical standards. Our flexible online format fits any career stage.

Required Courses Include

  • Investigation of Terrorism
  • Advanced Counterterrorism
  • Hostage Negotiation
  • Introduction to Intelligence Analysis
students in classroom

Outcomes & Careers

As a DeSales University MAHS program graduate, you’ll gain a deep understanding of homeland security principles, advanced analytical and communication skills, and specialized knowledge in your chosen concentration. Our curriculum blends theory with practical application, preparing you to lead in securing and protecting our homeland from various threats. Upon completion of the program, you will:

  • Be well-prepared to compete for roles in homeland security, including counterterrorism, intelligence, and emergency management.
  • Develop skills in researching, analyzing, writing, and presenting significant issues in homeland security and your concentration.
  • Uphold high ethical standards and apply them in real-life situations, reflecting the Christian humanistic philosophy of St. Francis de Sales.
  • Become adept with relevant strategic and digital tools.
  • Gain a comprehensive understanding of key issues in modern homeland security.
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Admission Requirements

  • Official Transcripts from all Higher Education Institutions attended
  • 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 GPA of 3.00 or higher
  • Background or interest in criminal justice or homeland security
  • Personal Statement that addresses your personal and professional goals, as well as how an MAHS degree from DeSales University can assist you in achieving them
  • Two (2) Letters of Recommendation
  • Completed application
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