Building the Knowledge and Networks that Safeguard the Nation
The Naval Postgraduate School’s Center for Homeland Defense and Security educates decision-makers, conducts critical and practical research, and fosters real-time collaboration across federal, state, local, tribal, and private sectors.
Participants and Alumni
Agencies, Companies, Institutions
U.S. Cities
Education in Action
CHDS participants have changed the face of homeland defense and security in the United States.
Redmond Fire and CHDS: CHDS Education as a Succession Planning Tool
Academic Programs
CHDS participants think, innovate, and lead in dynamic threat environments.
Master’s Degree Program
At NPS in-residence 7 times over 18 months
Earn a Master of Arts in Security Studies from the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS). This cross-disciplinary program equips homeland defense and security professionals to develop policies and strategies that prevent or respond to national security threats. Participants complete 11 courses and a thesis, applying rigorous analysis to real-world homeland defense and security challenges.
Application Deadlines:
May 1 & December 1
Executive Leaders Program
At NPS in-residence 3 times over 9 months
Senior leaders from government and industry meet in the classroom to examine the threats, risks, and policy challenges impacting our nation’s security. Through faculty-led discussions, expert speakers, and peer exchange, this program broadens perspective while building lasting relationships that enhance cooperation across the homeland defense and security enterprise.
Application Deadlines:
May 1 & December 1
Emergence Program
At NPS in-residence 2 times over 6 months
Early- to mid-career homeland defense and security professionals explore emerging trends, test innovative ideas, and develop strategic and leadership skills that will protect communities and the nation. This program builds practical tools, fresh perspectives, and professional networks that support long-term career growth.
Application Deadlines:
May 1 & December 1
Radiological Emergency Preparedness Program (REP)
At NPS in-residence 2 times over 6 months or during single seminars
Government and nuclear industry leaders tackle the real-world challenges of off-site nuclear emergency preparedness, response, and recovery. Participants engage stakeholders, learn from subject-matter experts, examine emerging issues, and strengthen strategic and critical thinking.
Application Deadlines:
May 1 & December 1
Executive Education Program (EEP)
Field-delivered seminars
Senior officials and elected leaders participate in customized learning experiences that strengthen intergovernmental, interagency, and civil–military capabilities. CHDS mobile education teams—made up of nationally recognized experts—deliver programs nationwide through seminars, symposia, workshops, and short courses tailored to operational and strategic needs.
Pacific Executive Leaders Program (PELP)
1 week in Hilo, HI or single seminars
Hawaiʻi and U.S. Pacific officials participate in tailored executive education seminars that strengthen preparedness, resilience, and intergovernmental collaboration in addressing terrorism, natural disasters, and emerging homeland defense and security challenges.
Self-Study Program
Self-paced, non-credit modules
Government officials, members of industry, and students enhance their understanding of homeland defense and security at no cost. Participants can enroll in any of the 40+ courses covering a wide range of topics.
Pacific Executive Leaders Program (PELP)
9 months, In-Residence 4 times
The Pacific Executive Leaders Program (PELP), developed by the Naval Postgraduate School’s Center for Homeland Defense and Security in partnership with FEMA and regional stakeholders, provides tailored executive education for Hawaiʻi and U.S. Pacific officials to strengthen preparedness, resilience, and intergovernmental collaboration in addressing terrorism, natural disasters, and emerging homeland security challenges.
The CHDS Experience
Learning & Research
CHDS shares educational materials built on the expertise and research efforts of faculty, students, and subject matter experts. Across the spectrum of homeland defense and security topics, explore research based on student theses and publications, find key presentations and talks, and follow what the experts are reading.
The nation’s premier collection of resources related to policy, strategy, and organizational management for homeland defense and security.
The peer-reviewed online journal of the Naval Postgraduate School Center for Homeland Defense and Security.