EKU’s Homeland Security Degree Puts Preparedness First
RICHMOND, KY — When catastrophe hits—whether it’s the devastating flooding in Eastern Kentucky, wildfires raging across California, the global pandemic that reshaped the world, or other unforeseen crises—EKU’s Homeland Security graduates are trained and ready to respond, equipped with the skills to manage emergencies and protect communities when it matters most.
As one of the first programs of its kind in the United States, Eastern Kentucky University’s (EKU) Homeland Security program has established itself as a national leader, equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary for careers focused on protecting and securing communities.
“Our academic programs, such as homeland security, reflect an enduring commitment to serving communities throughout Kentucky,” said EKU President David McFaddin. “Not only were we among the first in the United States to recognize a need for this type of program, but the impact of our program has spread throughout the Commonwealth and beyond as our graduates readily respond to unprecedented disasters.”
EKU’s comprehensive homeland security curriculum is built on three foundational pillars: disaster management, intelligence studies and security operations.
“Our main goal is to provide students with knowledge of disaster preparedness. Regardless of where students work in the future, emergency planning will be a necessary skill,” said Lucas Barnes, ’15, homeland security lecturer at EKU.
The program’s distinguished faculty bring extensive field experience, ensuring students receive hands-on instruction in disaster preparedness. During previous flooding, students volunteered to assist with damage assessments.
“These students gained real-world experience and many are now actively employed in emergency management,” said Barnes.
Applied learning opportunities in the program include a field trip to the Kentucky Emergency Management center in Frankfort for an emergency exercise with state officials, mock disaster coordination activities, and a class project where students develop StoryMaps to identify potential hazards to communities and recommend mitigation measures.
EKU’s Homeland Security program also places students in internships with law enforcement agencies, emergency management offices, private security firms and intelligence organizations, where students gain practical experience and often secure jobs for after graduation. Barnes said students have interned with Appalachia HIDTA, Nevada National Security Site, Ohio Department of Public Safety, Indiana State Police, the Lexington Division of Emergency Management, the Richmond Police Department and the U.S. Marshal Service.
Homeland Security freshman Tristan Kasper came to EKU from North Carolina specifically for EKU's Homeland Security program and the department's commitment to prepare students for careers in the field.
“Throughout my time in the program, I have developed phenomenal relationships with my professors and my peers,” Kasper said. “For the first time in my life, I am excited to be in school and learning. I have found my belonging in the world and my passion in life through my professors’ dedication towards and knowledge of homeland security.”
EKU’s Homeland Security program is preparing Kasper for his future goal of working for a federal agency.
“Pursuing this field will allow me to fulfill my desire to safeguard human life and make the world a better, safer place,” he said.
EKU offers a bachelor’s degree in homeland security, as well as a 3+2 pathway, allowing students to complete a bachelor’s in homeland security and a master’s in safety, security and emergency management in as few as five years. Students may minor or receive certificates in disaster management, intelligence studies, security management or financial technology and cybercrime. The homeland security program is offered on campus and online.
