Homeland Security Certificate*
The Homeland Security Certificate Program is designed for adult working professionals from the military, government agency, government contractor and private sector whose work focus is related to homeland security issues. The aim of such professionals is to effectively manage homeland security oriented work-related projects, and to achieve a skill set relevant to the application of quality system principles to homeland security-related instances.
The Homeland Security body of knowledge is generally understood to be the theory gained from the study of past homeland security events, successes and challenges. It is worth noting that the accepted sense of what constitutes a Homeland Security certificate level of knowledge, and what is consequently expected of an earned certificate holder, has shifted since the events of 9/11 and the ever-increasing number of threats to homeland security around the globe as well as in the United States.
From this large reservoir of knowledge, NGS has gathered “best practices” which shall be discussed in case studies. The NGS emphasis is on practical, “hands-on” solutions. Although program course content does include texts such as the “9/11 Commission Report,” the constantly evolving additions of knowledge in the field dictates the inclusion of current reports from the GSA, blogs and interviews from senior-level experts such as Dr. David McIntyre, NGS Director of Homeland Security Degree and Certificate Programs.
NGS prerequisites for entry into the Homeland Security Certificate program are thus derived from what appear to be “success indicators” from the applicant’s background and experience.
Course Descriptions
Prerequisites
- 5 years minimum of work or military service related to Homeland Security
- Familiarity with the principles of quality systems
- Project management experience as team leader or team member
- Familiarity with data gathering concepts and techniques
- Access to the internet and a computer for personal use that is adequate to process required software and assignments.
Note: Applicants for NGS “dual credential” programs, which award both a degree and a certificate, must fulfill pre-requisite requirements for admission for both programs.
Term of Validity
The NGS Homeland Security Certificate is “Valid for Life.” NGS understands the bodies of knowledge in the field are changing and expanding. The School recommends, but does not require, the return to the institution for current programs after three years, to assure the students have the most contemporary and newest knowledge available.
*Not available in Massachusetts.