Graduate Certificate in Critical Infrastructure Protection

The online Graduate Certificate in Critical Infrastructure Protection is an 18-hour program catering to working professionals currently in law enforcement, public safety, private security, and other fields related to emergency management and homeland security. The certificate provides an opportunity for students to advance professional growth and career development while maintaining their occupational responsibilities. The certificate is structured to allow students to complete the program in one calendar year, enrolling in two courses per semester.

Students can choose from face-to-face and online options.  All courses will be offered online as well as face-to-face if minimum enrollment requirements are met.

Completion of the Graduate Certificate involves approximately half the coursework necessary for a Master of Science in Homeland Security Studies. Students completing the certificate have the option of continuing their studies to obtain the Master's degree.

This Graduate Certificate is eligible to receive Title IV funding – Direct Unsubsidized Loans and Graduate PLUS loans by request. To be considered for aid, students need to submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Additional information: Reference the Program Landing Page for additional information, such as cost, delivery format, contact information, or to schedule a visit.

Applicants seeking admission to the graduate certificate program in Criminal Justice Leadership and Management must submit the following directly to the Office of Graduate Admissions:

  1. Graduate Application
  2. Application fee
  3. GPA of 3.0 or higher
  4. All official transcripts from colleges or universities attended
  5. An acceptable undergraduate GPA (Note: A prima facie acceptable GPA is a 3.0 for the final 60 baccalaureate credits)
  6. Current Resume
  7. Evidence of three years of employment as a professional in a field involving emergency management (e.g., law enforcement, public safety, private security) criminal justice professional
  8. Applicant Questionnaire
  9. Essay Defining Homeland Security
Graduate Certificate in Critical Infrastructure Management
Specified Courses
SCST 5338Security and Management3
SCST 5339Foundations of Homeland Security3
SCST 5344Unconventional Threats3
SCST 5348Critical Infrastructure Protection3
SCST 6362Critical Infrastructure Risk Management3
SCST 6364Cybersecurity3
Total Hours18

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) marketable skills initiative is part of the state’s 60x30TX plan and was designed to help students articulate their skills to employers.  Marketable skills are those skills valued by employers and/or graduate programs that can be applied in a variety of work or education settings and may include interpersonal, cognitive, and applied skill areas.

The Graduate Certificate in Critical Infrastructure Protection is designed to provide graduates with the following marketable skills:

  • Risk Assessment.
  • Critical Infrastructure Protection.
  • Cybersecurity.