Private Security Degree

A private security degree can provide a clear path to private security careers such as business surveillance or retail loss prevention specialists. While private security careers are available to those who have experience running convoy security in the military or those with a high school education, a degree or certificate in private security can help individuals gain an edge over other applicants for competitive positions. It allows students to learn the most recent tactics in surveillance and security measures to aid private companies ensure their resources are well-protected.

The most common employment prospects are for private security personnel working in and around retail establishments as well as construction outfits. Surveillance skills and the ability to accurately assess the intent of a number of people from a wide variety of backgrounds is critical to effectively performing the job.

Private Security Training and Coursework

Whether through a certificate or degree program, private security students will learn how their roles differ from and dovetail with those of local law enforcement. That includes how to identify and respond to threats to both property and workers who are part of an area of supervision. It may also include proper emergency response techniques in the case of a natural disaster or man-made workplace issue.

In addition to general security, many degree programs also provide information on helping retailers with loss prevention programs. Coursework enables students to identify potential shoplifters or thieves and establish protocol for working with law enforcement. Commonly known as store detectives, a private security degree holder may be asked to testify in court on behalf of his or her employer.

Since there is overlap between private security and criminal justice, classes on criminal law and investigation are also common for those seeking a private security degree.

Career Opportunities for Private Security Degree Graduates

Job opportunities are available both in the private sector with corporate buildings, construction sites and retailers, but some of the best paying work comes from working in the healthcare field, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that security guards earn an annual median salary of $23,900 and the top 10% earn an annual median salary of $41,860 as of May 2011.²

Online Private Security Degrees and Criminal Justice Schools

University of Phoenix
Campuses: 1Online
Popular Degrees:

• B.S. in Organizational Security and Management
• B.S. in Criminal Justice Administration - Human Services
• B.S. in Criminal Justice Administration - Management

Bethel University- College of Criminal Justice
Campuses: 1Online
Popular Degrees:

• Master's in Criminal Justice
• Bachelor's in Criminal Justice

Kaplan University
Campuses: 1Online
Popular Degrees:

• BS in Criminal Justice Administration and Management
• MS in Criminal Justice - Leadership/Executive Management
• BS in Fire and Emergency Management

American InterContinental University Online
Campuses: 1Online
Popular Degrees:

• Associate's (AABA) - Criminal Justice Administration
• Bachelor's - Homeland Security and Crisis Management
• Bachelor's (BIT) - Digital Investigation

Ashworth College
Campuses: 1Online
Popular Degrees:

• Associate of Science Degree in Security Administration
• Associate of Science Degree in Criminal Justice
• Computer Network Security

Everest University Online
Campuses: 1Online
Popular Degrees:

• Homeland Security (Bachelor's)
• Homeland Security (Associate's)
• Criminal Justice (Associate's)

Keiser University
Campuses: 1Online
Popular Degrees:

• Homeland Security, BA (Online)
• Homeland Security, AA (Online)
• Criminal Justice, AA (Online)

References:
1. National Retail Federation: http://www.nrf.com/modules.php?name=News&op=viewlive&sp_id=1136
2. Bureau of Labor Statistics: http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes339032.htm