Industry analysts expect the global security market to grow significantly over the next decade. The industry’s growth continues long after 9/11 because recognized threats remain – and new ones emerge every day. Experts say that the key to address this changing environment lies in developing strategic security plans – and convincing management of its importance.
Two recent studies demonstrate the need for well-trained security experts:
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Workplace violence affects more than two million workers in the United States every year. It accounts for about 20 percent of all violent crime, including an average of 500 homicides that occur in U.S. workplaces each year.
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Estimates reveal that between 40 to 50 percent of all business losses can be attributed to employee theft
ASIS Foundation commissioned both studies. The foundation is part of ASIS International, an association for security professionals.
Preparing the Security Manager
Education is a critical component to strategic security planning, says Roger Melton, director of quality assurance for American Public University. Melton has more than 35 years experience in security and law enforcement. APU is a distance learning institution that serves more than 70,000 students worldwide. “Preparedness though education is paramount to prevention of chaos,†he says. Melton adds that the right degree program helps develop the critical thinking skills necessary to develop plans, present them to senior management, and implement them at various levels within the organization.
“APUS’s security management program has been designed from the ‘ground up’ to meet the demands of the 21st century security environment,†he says.
Working professionals choose its security management degree online program because of its positive reputation, affordability – and its flexible, portable format. Its security management degree online program is one of the university’s top 10 programs.
APUS professors prepare students for a wide range of issues, including cyber threats, transportation risks, emergency and disaster management, homeland security vulnerabilities and the need for better intelligence.
Many alumni and others return to the program for certifications as a way to stay current in the field or advance their careers. ASIS says salaries for mid-level professionals with the right knowledge, experience and certifications range from $40,000 to $100,000. Salaries can be even higher, depending on your expertise and authority level. Chief security officers, for example, earn an average of $117,000 per year.
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