Online HSEM Masters of Science Program
Applications are being accepted through July 15!
A Master’s in Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) from Idaho State University integrates security studies with the systematic approach necessary to effectively prevent and deter intentional acts and build strong capabilities to respond and recover from all hazards that threaten the U.S. This multidisciplinary security and emergency management-based graduate program are designed to enhance students’ abilities to assess risk, implement emergency protocols and lead in a complex environment with partners from the whole community and all layers of society. Resiliency requires professionals who recognize the threats and who can lead private, public, and nonprofit organizations to withstand small and large stressors and shocks that could disrupt vital systems. Students will explore complex systems and design thinking, cybersecurity, disaster management, intelligence, counterterrorism, risk management, and critical emerging issues.
Idaho State University’s Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) Master’s of Science Degree program consists of 30 credits, nine online courses, and a six-credit research thesis or Capstone project that will contribute to the overall discipline. Participants spend an average of 13-15 hours on their courses each week during the online distance learning periods of study. Activities include reading assigned materials, participating in online discussions with faculty members and other participants, and preparing papers and projects.
This program provides a more well-rounded field of study that encompasses all types of threats. Other similar programs focus more on one aspect of homeland security, such as terrorism, criminal justice, or emergency management. This program provides a more comprehensive spectrum of topics related to current-day security and public safety issues facing our country.
Master's in Homeland Security Graduate Application Instructions
HSEM Master of Science Application Requirements and Process
Applications Now Being Accepted!
Idaho State University is pleased that you’re interested in the MS in HSEM degree. ISU invites applications for admission to the Graduate School from students holding baccalaureate degrees from any regionally accredited college or university in the United States or with equivalent preparation acquired in another country.
MS in HSEM Program Highlights
- Nine courses
- Online, asynchronous courses
- Cohort based
- 16-month program from start to finish
- Option to complete a thesis or a capstone project proposal
- Graduate (In State and Out of State) Tuition is approximately $555 per credit*[1]*[2]
Admissions Requirements and How To Apply
- Review the MS in Homeland Security and Emergency Management Degree website at https://www.isu.edu/esd/hsem/masters/
- (Optional) Schedule a meeting with Laurie Holien, HSEM Program Director
- Gather Application Materials:
- Transcripts
- Two letters of recommendation (provide name and contact info). They will be contacted directly for a confidential recommendation request.
- Self-Reflection Essay (5 pg, double spaced).
- Resume or Curricula Vitae (CV)
- Application Fee - $65
- Create an Account
- Apply on the ISU Graduate Programs Website - https://www.isu.edu/apply/
- A GPA of 3.0 or higher. Students who do not meet the minimum GPA may be admitted conditionally with performance requirements.
- Background Check Acknowledgement
- Prerequisite: Applicants with a BS/BA degree in a field not closely related to Homeland Security or Emergency Management must complete HSEM 3301 Overview to Homeland Security and Emergency Management as a program prerequisite, despite work experience. HSEM 3301 is offered in the Summer semester prior to the MS degree start date.
- ISU HSEM undergraduate students may apply to enter the MS program during their fourth year and have the option to take two BS courses at the MS level.
- Admission Interview: Once your file is complete you may be contacted for an interview with a review committee
International Applicants:
International students must complete the Statement of Financial Guarantee.
Applicants educated in an institution where English is not the language of instruction are required to submit official score results for TOEFL (internet-based test score of 80 or paper-based test score of 550), IELTS (6.5). Please contact the International Program Office for more details.
Exception: International students whose undergraduate education took place in Australia, Canada (English-speaking provinces), United Kingdom, Ireland, New Zealand, or the U.S. are exempt from this requirement. Students born in one of these countries yet educated elsewhere are still required to satisfy the English proficiency requirement.
For More Information:
Contact Laurie Holien, Director of the HSEM Program, 208-373-1761, laurieholien@isu.edu; or schedule an appointment here - https://laurieholien.youcanbook.me
Krystal Scott Lyman, Academic Advisor (HSEM Program), 208-373-1760, krystalscott@isu.edu or schedule an appointment here: https://krystal-lyman.youcanbook.me/
[1] All online HSEM students will receive a non-resident tuition waiver regardless of residency.
[2] The average in-state graduate tuition for the 21-22 academic year is $555 per credit (fees included).
Master's in Homeland Security Essay Instructions
Self-assessment Essay Instructions
As part of the Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) Master of Science degree application process, write a 5-page, double spaced narrative that describes your background, accomplishments and contributions, experience, and future career aspirations. The program selection committee will use this essay to evaluate your writing skills and critical thinking capabilities. Use this essay to identify both your strengths and the weaknesses that will be enhanced by admittance into the HSEM program. This essay will be evaluated based on the requirement for excellent writing skills as a predictor of graduate level success. This reflective essay should answer some, or all the following questions and may include other items as well:
- Why are you pursing a Masters in Homeland Security and Emergency Management?
- Describe your work experience related to a field or discipline involved in homeland security and emergency management missions.
- Which aspect of homeland security and emergency management is most appealing to you?
- Describe any experience with Voluntary Organizations Active during Disasters (VOADs).
- Describe your academic accomplishments and critical thinking and analysis skills.
- How do you approach complex reports and writing assignments?
- Which homeland security-based problems are you compelled to help the country solve?
- What are your research interests?
- How will you apply your course studies and research to homeland security and emergency management-related topics?
- What do you anticipate being your future accomplishments in the homeland security and emergency management discipline?
- How will a Masters in Homeland Security and Emergency Management impact you, your career, your community, and your country?
- How do you challenge yourself to stretch, learn and grow?
- Describe your communication, persuasion, and project management skills.
- Illustrate with examples the commitment you have to a career in homeland security and emergency management.
Upload your essay along with your application materials.
You may submit an optional creative submission using whatever medium you wish.
Career Options
Chief Executives - Job growth 4-6% - Median Pay $184,460
Information Security Analysts - Job growth 31% - Median Pay $99,730
Government Program Managers - Job growth 27% - $123,819
Curriculum
This program explores emerging issues facing the public, private and nonprofit sectors today focusing on systems thinking, policy and leadership, risk-based decision models, and emerging threat environments such as violent extremists.
ISU’s online HSEM MS program features:
- A strong foundation in the core competencies of security and emergency management.
- A practical-applied approach using real-world examples, case studies, and professional document creation.
- Access to scholars and practitioners from government, private and nonprofit sectors.
- Choice of a practical field experience or research thesis to apply your new knowledge.
Program Goals/Objectives
- Candidates will engage in intellectual discourse to grow an understanding of the homeland security enterprise that is responsible to the community and the world at large.
- Candidates will develop ethical leadership skills providing them with a competitive edge within their field, opening doors into management and executive-level positions.
- Leaders prepared by this program will have the expertise and practice facility to be active participants in critical reflection and analysis, professional collaboration, effective implementation of policies and procedures, and the development of excellent supportive networking skills.
- Graduates with this Master's degree will pursue careers that enhance the safety and security of our communities, and safeguard the lives of citizens.
Not sure if an MS in HSEM degree is right for you? Homeland Security and Emergency Management is a diverse field attracting professionals from a wide variety of educational and career backgrounds, including:
- Program managers
- Intelligence analysts
- Public information and public affairs officers
- Military veterans
- Critical infrastructure owners/operators
- Law enforcement
- Fire service
- Health and medical emergency managers
Next Start Date: The first cohort kicks off in August 2022. Applications will be available January/February 2022 and will be due April 30, 2022.
Contact:
Krystal Scott, Program Advisor
(208) 373-1760 scotkrys@isu.edu
Laurie Holien, HSEM Program Director/Associate Professor
(208) 373-1761 laurieholien@isu.edu
