Graduate Certificate in Homeland Security (CHLS)
A graduate credential for careers in homeland security, public safety, and national defenseThe CHLS is a 15-hour graduate certificate covering homeland security strategy, policy, and operations, from public safety and emergency management to counterterrorism and cybersecurity. Built for working professionals and degree-seekers alike, it can be completed online, on campus, or in a combination, and the hours can count toward a Bush School master's degree.
Program at a Glance
- Credential
Graduate Certificate in Homeland Security
- Credit Hours
15 (5 courses)
- Duration
Up to 24 months
- Format
Online, College Station, or a combination
- Areas of Emphasis
Optional (noted on the certificate)
- Stackable
Hours may count toward a Bush School master’s degree
About the Program
Working professionals and degree-seekers build expertise across homeland security, public safety, emergency management, law enforcement, cybersecurity, and public service in federal, state, and local government, the military, and the private sector. Taught by acclaimed Bush School faculty alongside a cohort of practitioners.
Curriculum
15 credit hours (five courses) at a GPA of 3.0 or higher. One required core course, Fundamentals of Homeland Security, plus four electives chosen from a broad pool, or shaped around an emphasis (below). One approved CAIA course may count toward the certificate.
View the CHLS in the Texas A&M CatalogAreas of Emphasis
Choosing an area of emphasis is optional, but it can strengthen your credential: the emphasis is noted on your certificate, signaling focused expertise to employers. Students who select an emphasis complete the required Fundamentals of Homeland Security course plus emphasis-specific courses within their chosen area. You can earn multiple emphases by completing additional coursework.
- Homeland Security Policy and Management
For careers in homeland security policy and management.
- National Security Policy
For careers in national security and defense policy.
- Emergency Management and Crisis Preparedness
For careers in emergency management and disaster response.
- Critical Infrastructure Protection
For careers protecting critical infrastructure and key systems.
- Border Security
For careers in border security and homeland defense.
Where & How You’ll Study
Complete the CHLS fully online, on campus at College Station, or in any combination. Online courses run over fifteen-week fall and spring and ten-week summer semesters; on-campus seats can fill quickly, since priority goes to degree-seeking master’s students.
Online
Complete the certificate from anywhere. Online courses run over fifteen-week fall and spring semesters and ten-week summer semesters, with regular online discussion.
College Station
Take courses on campus, typically meeting once a week. On-campus seats can fill quickly, since priority goes to degree-seeking master’s students.
Explore Further
Stack Toward a Degree
CHLS hours can transfer toward the EMPSA’s Homeland Security track or an MPSA.
Explore Master’s ProgramsFaculty
The CHLS is taught by the same acclaimed PSAA faculty as our master’s programs.
PSAA Faculty DirectoryCost & Funding
Explore undergraduate tuition, scholarships, and financial aid for Bush School students.
Explore CHLS Cost & FundingReady to Apply?
Admission is handled through the Texas A&M Office of Admissions. Start as a first-year or transfer student, and find the steps on our Undergraduate Admissions page.
How to Apply