BS HS* Course Descriptions

Semester 1

EDU301: Best Practices for Undergraduate Education
The course covers the basic terminology and principles of both QSM and HSD, and it applies these concepts to situations in both the public and private sectors (government agencies and businesses). The course explains why the Quality Process (Total Quality Management) is indeed the future of Homeland Security and Defense. Without Quality, there is no way to plan for Homeland Security or to justify the enormous resource expenditures required, financial and otherwise. Without Quality, there is no way to evaluate the impact of Homeland Security efforts. Quality means measuring success against objective and quantifiable standards, something which is essential to the future of Homeland Security groups and programs. (3cr)

QSM340: Performance Based Management Introduction
The course introduces the principles and best practices of quality systems management. The emphasis is on building an understanding of effective operational excellence through the practical implementation of quality systems management principles. Diverse case studies from disparate organizations that apply QSM principles are used for the purposes of discussion. The course encourages students to apply the theoretical principles to their own work and to consider how organizational processes may be improved. Student teams will be formed for the duration of this course to complete certain assignments.(3cr)

QSM394: Conversations and Insights with Leaders Introduction
Leaders in the specialized field of study are invited to share their insights on leadership and best practices that led to success or failure of themselves or their organizations. Students will visit the organizational web site and complete extensive electronic research before each lecture. (3cr)

QSM 381: Introduction to Strategic Planning
Quality Systems Management principles and best practices are introduced as they relate to planning for and designing QSM systems for practical application. Emphasis is on basic definitions, methods and barriers to strategic planning. Students will also be introduced to implementation strategies learned from business organizations. (3cr)

HSD350: Bachelor’s HS Business Project I
This course introduces the institution-wide emphasis on work-related projects. The scope is limited to that of comparable senior year projects. Emphasis is placed on understanding the NGS methodology for project completion, e.g. champion and guiding coalition. Students will be required to consult regularly
with their learning advisors during the course. (3cr)

Semester 2

EDU338: Bachelor’s Project Development I
This course introduces new Bachelor of Science degree students at the National Graduate School (NGS) to the college’s programs that lead to degrees in Quality Systems Management and Homeland Security & Defense. The material is a combination of ideas, principles, and practical advice designed to assist students in making a quick transition from the every day working world to the demanding academic environment of study, analysis, discussion, and communication. (3cr)

HSD 401: Introduction to HS Research & Data Analysis
This course concentrates on current literature and research in Homeland Security Defense arena. The basic terminology and principles of HSD and applies these concepts to conducting a research that enhances individual research application with increased knowledge of the subject matter and literature. Students are required to demonstrate that they can compile research that is comprehensive, balanced, and useful for decision-making. Faculty will assist student to specific subject areas that are especially challenging and in which students may measurably advance the body of knowledge. (3cr)

HSD 360: Principles and Best Practices of Homeland Security
This course introduces the Homeland Security methodology for program projects. The case study method and general readings are introduced to bring the group to a common vocabulary and knowledge platform. (3cr)

HSD 478: Emergency Management & Homeland Security
This course begins the study of questions and issues facing emergency management and its role in homeland security. (3cr)

HSD 362: Bachelor’s HS Business Project II
This course continues the institution-wide emphasis on established performance measures in work-related projects. The measures are driven by actual work experience and guided by NGS methodology on what constitutes a verifiable performance measure. Emphasis is placed on applying the NGS methodology to the completion of the project and progress assessment. (3cr)

Curriculum is subject to change.

*Not available in Massachusetts.