Security Studies

Bachelor of Science

Empire State College

  • Designated As
    Signature Program
  • Delivery Mode
    100% Online
  • Total Credits
    124
  • Degree Level
    Bachelor of Science
  • Contact Us
    518-445-4140

Earn your Bachelor of Science online

You will earn the same diploma as our on-campus students

The Security Studies B.S. at SUNY Empire State College is designed to serve students currently working in public service, emergency services, law enforcement, and homeland security positions, as well as those interested in these career paths.


The bachelor's degree in security studies is a cutting-edge, interdisciplinary program that teaches students about the key dimensions of security in the 21st century. Students will learn about the global context of security, approaches to protecting the homeland, counterterrorism, and legal and ethical dimensions of security. Rather than just focusing on a single factor, the program explores the security implications of climate change, international politics and relations, public policy, sociology, and cybersecurity to prepare graduates to step up to the challenge of promoting security while recognizing human rights, diversity, and the complexity of the security environment in the contemporary world.


Students will work with a mentor to individualize the program to prepare for careers in public service, NGOs, law enforcement, or private industry.

What's a bachelor's degree?
A bachelor’s degree usually takes four years to complete as a full-time student and mixes general education courses with specific courses tied to your major.

Courses you will take online

Security studies courses in the program are:

  • Intro to Security Studies
  • Intro to Homeland Security
  • Intro to Digital Crime and Digital Terrorism
  • International Politics & Relations
  • Cyber Crime and Computer Forensics
  • Legal and Ethical Foundations of Public Service
  • Counterterrorism in a Changing World
  • International Dimensions of Security
  • Privacy, Security & Freedom: Social Concerns for the 21st Century

Optional Electives:

  • Crime and Intelligence Analysis
  • Strategic Planning for Emergency Services
  • Security Implications of Global Climate Change
  • Disaster and Society
  • Perspectives on Terrorism

 


  • What's it like to earn this degree online?

    Let's put your mind at ease about online learning

  • 100% Online
    This program is presented 100% online. You will not be expected to attend any classes on campus.
  • Same faculty as on-campus
    The faculty that teach online classes are the same faculty that students learn from on-campus.
  • SUNY Online Success Coach
    Success Coaches are available for onboarding, networking, and success webinars with coaches and peers. One-on-one application support is available (no application fee).
  • Personal assistance
    Tutoring support is available as well as additional support from our 7-day-a-week helpdesk.
  • Program elements
    This program has been identified as a high-needs area and has received regional accreditation. Articulation agreements are in place for easy transfer.
  • Additional elements for specific programs
    -Experiential learning opportunities
    -Industry accreditation
  • SUNY Online Signature Program
    In addition to the features listed above, this SUNY Online Signature Program includes 24/7 support, incorporates industry-leading teaching practices, and targets an area of high employer demand in New York State and beyond.
  • Request Program Information

How do I apply?

Follow these steps to start your application

  1. Go to the online application
  2. Create an account
  3. Complete the forms or save for later
  4. Submit any supplemental materials, if required
  5. Send in your academic records
  6. Apply Now

Interested in learning more about this program?