Criminal Justice vs. Homeland Security Degrees

Deciding what degree to pursue is a big decision for students. It depends somewhat on what career the student wants to pursue, but not entirely. Many fields require a bachelor’s degree, but do not require a major in a certain field of study.

For example, a police department may have a requirement that an officer have a bachelor’s degree but will usually not require the degree be in criminal justice. While it may seem to make sense that an aspiring officer should get a degree in criminal justice, that may not actually be necessary. Officers may benefit just as much, if not more, from pursuing a degree in homeland security, for example.

It’s important for students who are studying criminal justice or homeland security to understand each program—including the limitations—so they can decide what works best for their career aspirations.

Criminal Justice vs. Homeland Security

Many universities house homeland security degree programs in their criminal justice departments. While criminal justice and homeland security both fit into the public administration or safety realm, the theory, concept and applications of each field are distinct.

Criminal justice teaches students about the all-encompassing system of law enforcement and the upholding of society’s codes. The deterrence and mitigation of crime involves police, lawyers, courts, and corrections, which are together responsible for establishing and enforcing criminal penalties, proceedings, and the resulting punishment and rehabilitation. Criminal justice degrees prepare students for careers in the field of law enforcement and public safety, while the field of homeland security involves more than law enforcement and adjudication.

Inherently an American term, “homeland security” is used to describe efforts to ensure the critical infrastructure of the U.S. is secure and resilient against all natural and man-made threats and hazards, including natural disasters and terrorism. The term was enacted through the Homeland Security Act of 2002 and implemented in March 2003 in response to the terrorist attacks in September 2001. Homeland security promotes prevention, response, recovery and resilience strategies to hazards that affect American citizens or national interests, thus minimizing damage in an event.

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