Protective services careers offer stable employment opportunities in an essential sector focused on public safety and security. Graduates in Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Firefighting and Related Protective Services typically earn an average of $48,569 annually, with potential for growth through experience and specialization.
When evaluating programs, students should prioritize hands-on training opportunities, internship partnerships with local agencies, and faculty with real-world experience in the field. Look for curricula that balance theoretical knowledge with practical skills in emergency response, risk assessment, and crisis management. Strong programs often feature simulation labs, partnerships with government agencies, and preparation for relevant professional certifications. Consider the program's job placement rates and connections to regional employers in law enforcement, emergency management, and federal security agencies.
When evaluating programs, students should prioritize hands-on training opportunities, internship partnerships with local agencies, and faculty with real-world experience in the field. Look for curricula that balance theoretical knowledge with practical skills in emergency response, risk assessment, and crisis management. Strong programs often feature simulation labs, partnerships with government agencies, and preparation for relevant professional certifications. Consider the program's job placement rates and connections to regional employers in law enforcement, emergency management, and federal security agencies.
16
Schools Ranked
$48,569
Avg. Program Earnings
49.9%
Avg. Graduation Rate
Top 16 Schools
| # | School | Median Earnings | Graduation Rate | School Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Neumann University
Aston, Pennsylvania
|
$115,339 | 46.1% | private-nonprofit |
| 2 |
Franklin University
Columbus, Ohio
|
$71,015 | 30.3% | private-nonprofit |
| 3 |
Thomas Edison State University
Trenton, New Jersey
|
$57,318 | public | |
| 4 |
Florida SouthWestern State College
Fort Myers, Florida
|
$50,856 | 38.5% | public |
| 5 |
Massachusetts Maritime Academy
Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts
|
$50,439 | 79.1% | public |
| 6 |
Tulane University of Louisiana
New Orleans, Louisiana
|
$46,790 | 88.9% | private-nonprofit |
| 7 |
Eastern Michigan University
Ypsilanti, Michigan
|
$46,478 | 45.5% | public |
| 8 |
St Petersburg College
St. Petersburg, Florida
|
$42,682 | 37.5% | public |
| 9 |
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, Virginia
|
$41,565 | 65.4% | public |
| 10 |
Western Illinois University
Macomb, Illinois
|
$39,369 | 44.8% | public |
| 11 |
Tiffin University
Tiffin, Ohio
|
$38,871 | 43.0% | private-nonprofit |
| 12 |
Mercy University
Dobbs Ferry, New York
|
$38,289 | 48.1% | private-nonprofit |
| 13 |
Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, Florida
|
$36,668 | 64.3% | public |
| 14 |
Point Park University
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
|
$35,600 | 59.6% | private-nonprofit |
| 15 |
Florida State College at Jacksonville
Jacksonville, Florida
|
$35,060 | 32.4% | public |
| 16 |
Savannah State University
Savannah, Georgia
|
$30,771 | 25.2% | public |
Cost & Value
Cheapest Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Firefighting and Related Protective Services, Other Programs
Best Value Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Firefighting and Related Protective Services, Other Programs
Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Firefighting and Related Protective Services, Other Programs Under $20,000
Related Guides
See our methodology for how rankings are calculated.