4 International Security Careers to Consider

Written by: East Carolina University® • Sep 5, 2025

An International Security Expert Gives a Presentation Standing in Front of a World Map..jpg

4 International Security Careers to Consider

In many ways, the world has never felt more uncertain or chaotic. As such, the demand for skilled security professionals has never been greater. Every day, threats emerge that challenge not only national security but also international stability. Behind the headlines are individuals trained to analyze intelligence, prevent crises, and protect critical infrastructure — people in impactful, dynamic international security careers.

A degree in security studies can provide a solid foundation for this high-stakes field. Through interdisciplinary coursework that blends political science, criminal justice, international relations, and emergency management, students gain the tools to think critically, assess threats, and develop strategic responses. Whether working to disrupt terrorist networks, secure government systems, or manage risk for international organizations, these professionals play a central role in today’s interconnected world.

From working in homeland security and intelligence to tackling issues such as international conflict resolution, international security careers are both rewarding and increasingly in demand. Consider some compelling career paths in the field, including what they involve, their skill requirements, and how a security studies background can prepare you to step into one of these mission-driven roles.

What Is a Security Studies Degree?

A Bachelor of Science (BS) in Security Studies is designed for students interested in addressing complex threats to national and international security. The degree blends theory and practical training to prepare graduates for various critical roles.

Key components of these programs include the following:

Interdisciplinary curricula that draw from political science, emergency management, criminal justice, homeland and international security, and more
Development of essential skills such as critical thinking, threat assessment, and analytical reasoning
Preparation for careers in both domestic and international security environments

Graduates of a security studies program are equipped for a wide range of career paths with various federal agencies. The degree also serves as a strong foundation for graduate study and positions with private organizations.

Potential Careers to Consider

Below are some promising international security careers for students with a security studies degree to consider as they look to the future.

1. Intelligence Analyst

Intelligence analysts play an important role in protecting the security of the United States—both at home and abroad—by gathering, analyzing, and interpreting information related to foreign and domestic threats. Their insights help inform key decisions in defense, law enforcement, and foreign policy.

Skills Needed:

Data analysis
Critical thinking
Strong writing and communication

Common Employers:

CIA
National Security Agency (NSA)
FBI
Private defense contractors

Median Salary:

Approximately $82,570 as of July 2025 (Payscale)

Job Outlook:

Steady demand driven by persistent geopolitical threats and international instability

Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in security studies or a related field
U.S. citizenship and security clearance (for some roles)

2. Homeland Security Officer

Homeland security officers work to safeguard the United States from threats such as terrorism and natural disasters. Their responsibilities range from border protection and emergency response to intelligence gathering and risk management.

Skills Needed:

Crisis management
Risk assessment
Strong ethical judgment

Common Employers:

U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

Median Salary:

Approximately $98,000 as of June 2025 (Payscale)

Job Outlook:

Strong demand due to continued investment in domestic security and disaster preparedness

Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in security studies or a related field
U.S. citizenship
Agency-specific training or law enforcement academy programs (for some roles)

3. Foreign Service Officer

Foreign service officers work for the U.S. Department of State (DOS), supporting foreign policy initiatives and ensuring the safety of U.S. missions around the world. These roles blend security responsibilities with international relations and require a high degree of professionalism and cultural sensitivity.

Skills Needed:

Cultural awareness
Critical thinking
Political analysis

Common Employers:

DOS
U.S. embassies and consulates
Global nongovernmental organizations (NGOs)

Median Salary:

Approximately $85,000 as of June 2025 (Payscale)

Job Outlook:

Competitive, with strong demand for candidates with training in security, international affairs, and diplomacy

Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in a field such as security studies, political science, or international relations
U.S. citizenship
Pass the Foreign Service Officer Test (FSOT) and a thorough background investigation

4. Counterterrorism Analyst

Counterterrorism analysts gather and assess different types of intelligence to identify and prevent potential threats of terrorism. They may use open source and classified information to keep track of extremist activity. They report on their findings to federal agencies or other relevant stakeholders.

Skills Needed:

Data analysis
Attention to detail
Critical thinking

Common Employers:

CIA
FBI
DHS
National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC)

Median Salary:

Approximately $73,260 as of July 2025 (ZipRecruiter)

Job Outlook:

Steady demand due to terrorist threats and international instability

Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in security studies, international relations, or a related field
U.S. citizenship and security clearance (for some roles)

Launch Your Future in an International Security Career

There’s no denying that the world is increasingly interconnected and unpredictable, which is why international security careers offer meaningful opportunities to protect lives, shape policy, and drive change. The online BS in Security Studies Flight Path Program at East Carolina University® is designed to prepare students for these crucial roles by combining academic rigor with practical experience.

The program covers essential topics such as intelligence analysis, terrorism, emergency management, and international conflict resolution. Students engage in real-world simulations, policy evaluations, and case studies that build the hands-on skills employers value. Flexible online learning and access to internships with government agencies and private sector organizations make it ideal for both traditional and nontraditional learners.

Graduates emerge with strong analytical, communication, and leadership abilities—ready to take on federal roles, work with international NGOs, or pursue graduate education and law enforcement careers.

If you’re eager to pursue a path in international security, explore how ECU Online’s BS in Security Studies can help you reach your goals.

Recommended Readings

Understanding the Role of a Foreign Service Officer

What Is the Civil Service? Definition and Careers

5 Law Enforcement Careers for Security Studies Graduates

Sources:

Careeronestop, Customs and Border Protection Officers

Careeronestop, Intelligence Analysts

FBI Jobs, Intelligence Careers at the FBI

Federal News Network, “State Dept Rethinks Training for Foreign Service at All Levels Amid Hiring Surge”

Indeed, 12 Types of NGO Jobs (With Average Salaries and Duties)

Payscale, Average Foreign Service Officer Salary