Although the threat of terrorism in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, does not, at first glance, appear to be a major concern, the sobering truth is that even the nation’s heartland must be acutely cognizant that terrorism is a threat to every city and town in the nation.
Case in point: Scientists at South Dakota State University recently won a federal defense contract that will evaluate the threat of terrorism striking the nation’s cattle herds and beef industry. The contract will evaluate veterinary diagnostic laboratories to minimize the likelihood of any type of bacteria or virus could be deliberately introduced into the nation’s beef supply. Project results will be shared with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control, all veterinary diagnostic laboratories in the country, and the Department of Homeland Security.
Homeland Security Degrees and Certification in Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Homeland security jobs in Sioux Falls are wide-reaching, given the broad scope of this field. Therefore, careers in homeland security may include just one of many, such as:
- Detectives
- Undercover operations specialists
- Surveillance specialists
- Foreign bureau analysts
- Intelligence analysts
- Computer forensic specialists
- Cryptologists and Cyphers
Given the many career paths for homeland security professionals, a wide range of degree programs are available, both in Sioux Falls and across the state. Just a few of the options afforded to individuals seeking careers in homeland security include:
- Master of Arts in Homeland Security
- Master of Science in Emergency Management and Homeland Security
- Master of Science in Security Management
- Master of Science Management in Homeland Security
- Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security
- Bachelor in Homeland Security Management
Required coursework in the above homeland security degrees often includes study in the following:
- Terrorism
- Emergency preparedness
- Emergency planning
- Homeland protection
- Legal rights and security
- Homeland security administration
Many homeland security professionals in Sioux Falls also choose to pursue professional certification through the South Dakota Department of Public Safety. Professionals may complete the FEMA Independent Study Program and the Professional Development Series (PDS certificate).
Homeland Security Jobs in Sioux Falls, South Dakota
There are a number of homeland security initiatives in Sioux Falls that provide professionals in this field with ample career opportunities:
The South Dakota Join Terrorism Task Force – The Task Force, which is an FBI organization, is responsible for maximizing all local, state and federal efforts regarding domestic and international terrorism.
Anti-Terrorism Advisory Council – The U.S. attorney chairs this council, which is located in Sioux Falls.
South Dakota Fusion Center – The South Dakota Fusion Center, which is part of South Dakota’s Office of Homeland Security, is the state’s designated all-hazards and all-crimes fusion center.
FBI Minneapolis Field Office – The FBI Minneapolis Field Office has a resident agency in Sioux Falls, as well as Aberdeen, Pierre, and Rapid City.