Homeland Security at University of North Texas

UNT's Homeland Security program stands out in Texas, placing in the 60th percentile among state programs while carrying exceptionally low debt—barely $17,000 at graduation, among the lowest 5% nationally for this degree. That debt load is notably below both the national median ($23,475) and represents a manageable 38% of first-year earnings. While graduates start below the national median at $45,000, earnings jump 36% by year four to over $61,000, suggesting strong career trajectory potential in government and security roles.

The key story here is value over prestige. Texas families are getting access to this specialized field at a fraction of the typical cost, with outcomes that match the state median and competitive growth potential. Starting salaries may feel modest, but in the homeland security sector—where job stability, benefits, and clearance-based advancement matter—that $17,000 debt burden versus $23,000+ elsewhere provides significant financial breathing room early in a career.

For parents considering this path, the combination of low debt and solid earnings growth creates a workable financial picture. Your child isn't likely to land the highest-paying security job immediately, but they'll graduate without crushing debt and enter a field where experience and credentials build over time. Given the program's position among Texas offerings and that debt-to-earnings ratio under 0.4, this represents a practical entry point into federal and state security careers.