WHITTIER – Rio Hondo College has created Associate of Science and Certificate of Achievement academic offerings in Homeland Security, adding to the array of topnotch public safety programs that are a hallmark of the College.

The program, open for enrollment this fall, features the establishment of a Regional Training Center on par with the College’s Police Academy, Fire Academy and Wildland Fire Academy, creating a fundamental framework for responding to threats posed daily by manmade and natural disasters.

“Rio Hondo College’s Homeland Security Program will provide an academic foundation for a career field that is growing rapidly in scope and importance to our communities,” Superintendent/President Teresa Dreyfuss said. “This innovative program will provide a foundation for students seeking additional instruction in homeland security as well as enhance the knowledge and capabilities of experienced public safety professionals.”

The interdisciplinary program was designed in consultation with experts in law enforcement, fire services and homeland security, and incorporates courses in fire technology, wildland fire technology, administration of justice and geographic information services. A course in cybersecurity policy also will offered in conjunction with Rio Hondo College’s new cybersecurity degree program.

“The Homeland Security program will expand employment opportunities for students by adding a new field of study to public safety careers for those new to the field, or professionals in the career who are looking to enhance their career path,” said Dr. Ygnacio “Nash” Flores, the coordinator for the Homeland Security Program.

Career fields open to graduates in homeland security have the potential for more than 400,000 job openings by 2024.

Potential jobs include security management, information security, business continuity planning, border protection, customs, the U.S. Coast Guard, emergency management, transportation security and law enforcement and fire careers.

“Rio Hondo College has a long and proud history of training public safety officers that reaches back to the College’s establishment,” Board of Education President Madeline Shapiro said. “The new Homeland Security program maintains the college’s distinctive standing as a leader in preparing its students for employment in protecting the nation.”

PHOTOS

RHC_Homeland_1,2: Rio Hondo College’s new Homeland Security Program offers interdisciplinary training in fire technology, administration of justice, geographic information systems and cybersecurity – drawing on the strengths of the College’s existing academic programs and hands-on training in those areas.