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Careers in Security and Protective Services


Statistics on careers in security & protective services

Careers in security & protective services are the perfect fit for those individuals who wish to devote themselves to establishing law and order. Careers in security & protective services require physical strength, technical ability and soft skills such as thinking under pressure and making outside the box decisions. Starting salaries for those working in careers in security & protective services tend to be about $35,000 a year. But for those who have very specialized skills and are willing to work in more dangerous situations, the compensation can be much higher.


Major sectors for careers in security & protective services

Careers in security & protective services are available in almost every sector. Both the private and public sector place a premium on being able to offer security and thus seek trained professionals to manage safety programs. The most common sectors of employment for those in search of careers in security & protective services are:

  • Government agencies
  • The armed forces
  • Humanitarian organization and non-profits
  • Schools
  • Hospitals

Government agencies are often responsible for planning for public safety particularly at events where important people may be present. They need trained professionals who understand how to plan against unforeseeable events. They also often arrange for bodyguards for foreign visitors. Professionals who are adept at using the most modern security technology are especially in demand.


Educational programs that help in careers in security & protective services

 If you are looking for careers in security & protective services, you will find a fair number of institutions that offer relevant degrees. The most relevant degrees may be in programs called protective services, security services and security planning. Those with training in law and security technology are often also a good fit for general jobs that require planning and implementing security techniques.


Top jobs for those interested in careers in security & protective services

While there are a large number of jobs at schools and in hospitals where protecting people from threats is part of the mission of the institution, the best jobs are often in the public sector. Many government departments are involved in planning security both nationally and on an individual level. The government also takes responsibility for protecting citizens and training them so that they can take maximum responsibility for themselves. There are also much desired careers in security & protective services in cyberspace. Many threats are present online ranging from hacking to credit card number theft to identity theft to attacks on sensitive systems that manage national security. Those with specialized training in these technical fields can expect some wonderful careers in security & protective services.


Specializations for careers in security & protective services

The common specializations for those interested in careers in security & protective services include data security, personal protection, counter terrorism planning, fire protection and health security services.  

Top Schools Offering Security and Protective Services Degrees

Programs That Can Help you Find a Career in Security Field:


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Q:How do I get into Security and Protective Services careers?

A:The best way to pave a career in the security and protective services sector is by getting an education in criminal justice. You can start off with a diploma or certification that will give you basic understanding of the subject before going for higher level degrees like bachelor's or master's level degrees.

Q:what are the jobs for a protective services major?

A:A Protective Services major will be able to find a large number of jobs within the criminal justice and policing sectors. As a protective services degree gives learners the skills and knowledge required to become an efficient security individual, degree holders can find themselves working as security guards or people with higher level degrees can work for security companies, providing security solutions to large corporations, banks and other monetary organizations.

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