Homeland Security
Associate in Arts (A.S.) Degree
The Homeland Security degree program was established in response to the nation’s growing homeland security needs. The degree is designed for students to gain foundational knowledge and skills in order to secure borders, airports, waterways and seaports; prepare for and respond to natural and man-made disasters; provide counter-terrorism and law enforcement intelligence support; and employ the latest security technology. It can be completed in two years, with credit hours totaling 61-64. We offer evening and online classes and have an average professor/student ratio of 1:15. This degree is designed to transfer. Students may choose to take advantage of our dual admissions agreement with New Jersey City University’s National Security Studies Bachelor of Science program, which is offered on both the NJCU and MCC campus. Experiential credit may be given for veterans or law enforcement officials with extensive training in Homeland Security.
Semester I
Short Title : English Composition I
Course Code : ENG-121
Department Description : English
Course Description :
Through a variety of writing projects requiring competence in clear, correct, and effective English, students use inferential and critical skills in the process of composing documented essays. Extensive reading materials serve as structural models and as the bases for discussion and for the writing of essays involving response, analysis, and synthesis.
Prerequisites :
A passing score on the College Placement Test; or a grade of "C" or better in ENG-010 and RDG-011 (RDG-011 can be a co-requisite; or a grade of "C" or better in ESL-097 and ESL-098.
Co requisites :
RDG-011 may be taken as a co-requisite if not previously completed with a grade of "C" or better.
- Credit : 3
- Lecture Hours : 3
Short Title : Introduction to Criminal Justice
Course Code : CJU-123
Department Description : History and Social Science
Course Description :
Examines both the substantive and procedural criminal law with a special focus on the administration of justice. Particular attention will be given to the role of the police, courts and correctional systems and how each separate entity must function with the framework of Constitutional law. Special emphasis will be on New Jersey statutory law, court rules and corrections policy.
- Credit : 3
Short Title : Introduction to Homeland Security
Course Code : HCS-121
Department Description : History and Social Sciences
Course Description : This course provides an introduction to the basic concepts and principles of contemporary security and the dynamic and diverse nature of this challenging field. A focus of this course is on the relationships between national security, law enforcement and the private sector as well as the need for these groups to work in concert to mitigate or prevent security incidents.
- Credit : 3
- Lecture Hours : 3.0
Short Title : Introduction to Psychology
Course Code : PSY-123
Department Description : History and Social Science
Course Description :
Provides a psychological basis for the understanding of human behavior. A survey of fundamentals that are necessary for subsequent psychology courses. Topics include but are not limited to: learning, motivation, cognition, personality, abnormal behavior, development and social psychology.
- Credit : 3
Short Title : Introduction to Sociology
Course Code : SOC-121
Department Description : History and Social Science
Course Description :
Sociology is the systematic study of social behavior and human groups. This course covers basic sociological theories and methods of social research, with special attention to the following topics: culture, values and norms, socialization, social structure, deviance, stratification, social institutions and differentiation by region, race, ethnicity, gender, age and class.
- Credit : 3
Semester II
Short Title : English Composition II
Course Code : ENG-122
Department Description : English
Course Description : Through a variety of writing projects requiring competence in clear, correct, and effective English, students use inferential and critical skills in the process of composing argument synthesis essays. Students engage in formal written argumentation based on extensive reading and analysis of complex texts. Through the research process, students will locate, analyze, and synthesize scholarly sources to advance their own informed positions on relevant issues in the composition of a formal research paper.
Prerequisites :
A grade of “C” or better in ENG-121
- Credit : 3
- Lecture Hours : 3
Short Title : United States National Government
Course Code : POS-220
Department Description : History and Social Science
Course Description :
The organization, powers and procedures of the United States national government are presented along with such topics as the role of political parties, electorate behavior and interest groups as a continuing process of United States politics.
- Credit : 3
Short Title : Fundamentals of Emergency Management
Course Code : HCS-122
Department Description : History and Social Sciences
Course Description : This course is designed to provide students an understanding of the broad array of emergency management issues. Covered are the basic characteristics, functions, and resources of an integrated system and how various emergency management services (fire personnel, police, security, healthcare providers etc.) work together in a system of resources and capabilities. Included is the integrated role of national, regional and local services in a variety of disasters.
Prerequisites :
- Credit : 3
- Lecture Hours : 3.0
Short Title : Computer Applications and Systems
Course Code : CSC-105
Department Description : Business and Computer Science
Course Description :
This course defines computers and computer applications and their use in business, industry and government. Students completing this course will be computer fluent. Students will understand the capabilities and limitations of computers and know how to use them. In addition, students will understand computers and their ethical, legal and societal implications. Topics include the history of computers, hardware devices, software programs, terminology, privacy of information, ethical behavior and the influence of computers on people and society. Hands-on experience includes: using a Windows operating system, a word processor, designing and implementing spreadsheets and producing presentations. This course is recommended for anyone who will be involved with computers and the use of computer application software.
- Credit : 3
- Lecture Hours : 3
OR
Short Title : Intermediate PC Applications with Programming
Course Code : CSC-106
Department Description : Business and Computer Science
Course Description :
This course emphasizes problem solving with programming using the Python programming language and problem solving with applications using Microsoft Excel. In addition to problem solving skills the course presents current technologies and their impacts on society. The course is designed for students who already possess familiarity with computer applications. It is recommended for students planning to transfer to an upper division college that has a computer programming requirement in its computer literacy course.
Prerequisites :
MAT-014 or appropriate score on the College placement test
- Credit : 3
- Lecture Hours : 1
- Lab Hours : 4
Short Title : Statistics I
Course Code : MAT-123
Department Description : Mathematics
Course Description :
Familiarizes students with mathematical models that occur in more advanced courses and in the areas of business, science and the social sciences using exploratory data analysis and statistical methods. Topics include descriptive statistics linear regression, probability and probability distribution, confidence intervals, and an introduction to hypothesis testing.
Prerequisites :
Algebra I, MAT-013, or the equivalent as demonstrated through multiple measures.
Co requisites :
MAT-090
Corequiste Exemption: Proficiency at the Level of Algebra II
- Credit : 3
Semester III
Short Title : Introduction to Intelligence Function
Course Code : HCS-201
Department Description : History and Social Sciences
Course Description : This course provides an overview of the United States intelligence community, Intelligence-led policing, the National Criminal Intelligence Sharing Plan, and the Intelligence Cycle. Topics include the intelligence process including the collection, analysis, strategy, consumers, and impacts on local, state, tribal, and federal authorities.
Prerequisites :
- Credit : 3
- Lecture Hours : 3.0
Short Title : Contemporary Social Problems
Course Code : SOC-131
Department Description : History and Social Science
Course Description :
An introduction to the study of social problems in American society. Emphasis is given to social problems related to stratification and inequity of social groups and institutions. Students will analyze social problems from general, theoretical, and research-based point of view, as well as investigate why particular issues become defined as "problems".
- Credit : 3
- Lecture Hours : 3
Short Title : Risk Management and Analysis
Course Code : HCS-202
Department Description : History and Social Sciences
Course Description : This course focuses on the management and mitigation of risk in security settings. Critical incident response, risk assessment, the development of security surveys, identifying risks and offering solutions will be emphasized. These concepts will be applied to three major domains of the security industry: national, corporate, and cyber security.
Prerequisites :
- Credit : 3
- Lecture Hours : 3.0
Short Title : Ethics
Course Code : PHI-123
Department Description : History and Social Science
Course Description :
A study of the basic theories, methods, and problems of ethics and morality. Students will apply ethical principles and problem solving models to examples taken from everyday life.
- Credit : 3
Short Title : Organizational Behavior and Management in Law Enforcement
Course Code : HCS-210
Department Description : History and Social Sciences
Course Description : This course explores critical issues related to public safety administration and an understanding of the laws, programs, agencies, and institutions involved in the provision of public safety. Managers in public safety agencies and institutions deal with several challenges arising from environmental and natural disasters to the nature and operation of correctional institutions. Responsibilities of managers in these institutions include the development and administration of mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery programs to address these challenges. In addition, issues related to community resilience, social, economic and political vulnerabilities, and ethical responses to risk management need to be considered and understood by public managers engaged in the provision of safety to communities. The course addresses these and other issues within the context of disaster management, homeland security, criminal justice administration, and fire/emergency management.
Prerequisites :
- Credit : 3
- Lecture Hours : 3.0
Semester IV
Short Title : Introduction to Criminology
Course Code : SOC-140
Department Description : History and Social Science
Course Description : The nature and sources of criminal law, incidences and trends of criminology, relationship of culture and social systems to criminology, biological, psychological and sociological theories of criminology.
- Credit : 3
- Lecture Hours : 3
Short Title : Domestic and International Terrorism
Course Code : HCS-220
Department Description : History and Social Sciences
Course Description : This course explores terrorism and homeland security as local, national and global phenomena. Students will explore, assess, and identify the origins, nature, traditions, contemporary tactics, methodologies and motivations of terrorism.
Prerequisites :
- Credit : 3
- Lecture Hours : 3.0
OR
Short Title : Global Terrorism
Course Code : GLS-123
Department Description : History and Social Science
Course Description : Terrorism as a political tool will be examined through a comprehensive study of international terrorism and the problems confronting the global world as it tries to formulate and implement strategies to combat terrorism. This course will focus on the definition of terrorism within its social contexts and will examine the juxtaposition of terrorists and counter-terrorists as they interact. A section of the course will deal with the psychology of terrorists; explorations of changes in terrorism across the globe will be explored with the focus on Africa, the Middle East, Latin America and other areas. Homeland security options and the future of terrorism will be examined.
- Credit : 3
- Lecture Hours : 3.0
- Lab Hours : 0.0
- Studio Hours : 0.0
Short Title : Introduction to Forensic Science
Course Code : SCI-206
Department Description : Natural Sciences
Course Description : This course is an introductory course in which scientific principles will be applied to the methods used to investigate and solve crimes. The course will focus on the principles and methods utilized in the traditional sciences of biology, chemistry and physics. The scientific techniques used to collect and analyze evidence will be covered.
Prerequisites :
MAT-013, MAT 013B or appropriate score on the College placement test
- Credit : 3
- Lecture Hours : 2
- Lab Hours : 2
Short Title : Principles of Investigation
Course Code : POL-205
Department Description : History and Social Sciences
Course Description :
This course introduces crime investigation and detection including basic and practical methods, technologies, and processes. Historical, fundamental, and practical theories of crime detection and sound criminal investigations are covered through scientific and behavior-related principles.
Prerequisites :
- Credit : 3
Short Title : Constitutional Law
Course Code : POS-231
Department Description : History and Social Science
Course Description :
Examines the principal methods by which United States Supreme Court Justices give meaning to Constitutional provisions in the context of individual cases. Particular attention paid to the fundamental importance of a full and coherent understanding of the principles, precedents and problems of America’s democratic system.
Prerequisites :
- Credit : 3
Program Outcomes
Graduates of the Program will be able to:
- Model successful strategies to effectively evaluate contemporary security challenges facing the U.S. and other industrialized nations.
- Simulate effective interpersonal communication, decision-making, and critical thinking skills.
- Analyze the processes leading to effective integration of security and emergency management procedures.
- Summarize the skills and abilities in appropriate leadership roles in emergency management, civil security, and public policy.
- Articulate the basic ethical and legal issues impacting the ability of security professionals to operate effectively in public/private sect
- Diagnose the appropriate policy needs at the local, state, and federal level that reflect evolving strategic initiatives.
- Identify the basic process of collection, analysis, and dissemination of information to address contemporary threats and vulnerabilities.
- Explain inter-agency cooperation in sharing intelligence information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What will students learn if they study Criminal Justice?
Students examine both the substantive and procedural aspects of criminal law. Particular attention will be given to the functions of the courts and special emphasis will be placed on major U.S. Supreme Court decisions. Students who choose the Correction Administration degree option or certificate will learn about relevant trends with regard to correctional institutions, as well as sentencing, judicial treatment and correctional management philosophies. With the Police Science degree option, students will learn police procedures, constitutional law and community policing.
Are there any requirements that must be satisfied taking courses in the major?
Can students transfer to a four-year college or university?
The Statewide Transfer Agreement for New Jersey ensures that students who earn an A.A. or A.S. degree at a community college will have those credits fully transferable to a New Jersey public four-year institution, will have completed half of the credits required for a basic four-year degree and will have completed all of the lower division general education requirements. In addition, articulation agreements with private institutions may provide similar transfer provisions. Students should discuss the transfer process with an advisor.
How long will it take to complete this degree?
Once students complete developmental coursework (if needed), the degree can be completed in two years of full-time study. They can shorten the amount of time by taking courses in the summer and winter sessions.
Salary Ranges: $39,677-$136,771
Potential Careers: Border Patrol Agent, CIA Analyst, CIA Officer, FBI Agent, Immigration Enforcement Agent, Federal Air Marshal, ICE Agent, Secret Service Agent, TSA Screener
Source: https://www.criminaljusticedegreeschools.com/criminal-justice-careers/homeland-security/
How Much Will You Save?
Our graduates start at Middlesex and transfer to prestigious colleges and universities such as Kean, Rutgers, NJCU, and more. They get the same degree, but save thousands off the cost of tuition! Starting at Middlesex County College first and then transferring to New Jersey City University will save you almost $6,000 compared to those who went to NJCU for all four years. You’ll save $8,770 by starting at MCC and then going to Kean, and $21,902 if transferring to Rutgers.
In-County Tuition & Fees for 1 year: $3,420
Books & Supplies for 1 year: $2,000
Financial Aid Assistance Available
Department Contact Information
Contact Name: Timothy Hack, department chair
Contact Phone: 732.906.2590
Contact Email: HSS@middlesexcc.edu
Department Web: http://www.middlesexcc.edu/
Upon completion of this program students will be able to:
- Model successful strategies to effectively evaluate contemporary security challenges facing the United States and other industrialized nations.
- Simulate effective interpersonal communication, decision-making and critical thinking skills.
- Outline the processes leading to effective integration of security and emergency management procedures.
- Employ a foundation of knowledge, skills, and abilities in appropriate leadership roles in emergency management, civil security and public policy.
- Articulate the basic ethical and legal issues impacting the ability of security professionals to operate effectively in both the public and private sectors.
- Restate the appropriate policy needs at the local, state, and federal level that reflect evolving strategic initiatives associated with homeland security.
- Identify the basic process of collection, analysis and dissemination of information necessary to address contemporary threats and vulnerabilities
- Explain inter-agency cooperation in sharing intelligence information.