Today’s security environment is characterized by a complex array of threats to public safety, border security, critical infrastructure and the economy. Violent extremists, transnational criminal organizations, adversarial nation-states and malicious cyber actors are operating with increasing sophistication. As the 2025 Homeland Threat Assessment makes clear, the nation needs professionals who are equipped to understand, anticipate and respond to these dynamic challenges with skill and precision.
Virginia Commonwealth University’s (VCU’s) online Master of Arts in Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (HSEP) is a leader in preparing students for public service careers. It offers a highly relevant curriculum taught by seasoned professionals and emphasizes practical, real-world training for those committed to protecting communities and leading in crisis.
Explore VCU’s Homeland Security Program
Prepare to Lead in Crisis Situations
A Curriculum Designed for Action
VCU’s HSEP program goes beyond theory to prepare students for real-world leadership. This interdisciplinary degree combines policy, emergency management, intelligence analysis, public health preparedness, and cybersecurity to equip students to address complex scenarios, shape policy and lead under pressure.
Courses are hands-on and immediately applicable. From scenario planning and policy analysis to risk assessment, the curriculum provides practical tools that students can apply immediately to advance in their current roles or prepare for future leadership.
Designed for working professionals, the program is fully online and highly flexible. Students can manage coursework alongside job and family commitments without compromising on academic rigor or faculty engagement.
Faculty With Real-World Experience
VCU’s faculty brings a depth and diversity of expertise that few programs can match. These aren’t just academics; they are professionals who have served in federal, state, local and private-sector roles across the homeland security ecosystem. Their insights come from experience on the front lines of emergency response, intelligence operations, public policy and infrastructure protection.
The faculty includes Maureen Moslow-Benway, who served as a special agent with the Air Force Office of Special Investigations and possesses deep knowledge of terrorism and the U.S. intelligence community’s operations. Dr. David Webber conducts theory-driven research on ideological extremism, with a focus on violent extremism and terrorism. Dr. Christopher Whyte specializes in cyber conflict and information warfare. Dr. Brittany Haupt studies crisis communication planning and implementation.
This breadth of knowledge and experience ensures that students don’t just learn theory but gain actionable insights from professionals who have led real-world responses to crises.
Immediate Career Relevance
Graduates of the HSEP program are well-prepared for impactful careers with organizations like FEMA, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), state and local emergency management agencies, and private sector security firms. Alumni go on to serve in roles that involve cybersecurity coordination, disaster preparedness, public safety policy and counterterrorism strategy.
The impact of VCU’s HSEP program begins well before graduation. Though delivered online, the program emphasizes experiential and applied learning, equipping students with skills they can immediately apply in their current roles.
Next Steps: Get the Full Picture
VCU’s HSEP online master’s program stands out for its rigorous curriculum, flexible delivery, and real-world leadership preparation. Designed for those committed to making a difference, the program equips students to lead in the face of today’s most pressing threats.
If you’re passionate about public service and ready to take the next step in your career, take the time to explore what VCU’s homeland security program can offer. Schedule a program overview to learn more about the VCU HSEP online program, or start your application today.Â