Counter Terrorism Specialist
The government and military order counter terrorism operations to prevent terrorist attacks. Many federal government agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigations, State Department, and Central Intelligence Agency develop counter terrorism procedures and policies.
Those interested in counter terrorism careers can benefit from earning a college degree in homeland security, counter terrorism, or criminal justice. Regardless of major, you should take a variety of counter terrorism courses during college. Students completing formal counter terrorism training programs take courses in disaster preparation and global, biological, and cyber terrorism.
Job Outlook
Since September 11, 2001, the military, federal government agencies, and private military contractors have developed new counter terrorism procedures. This has led to increased demand for high wage counter terrorism jobs.
During the 1980’s, the CIA concluded that it was collecting sufficient intelligence about terrorist organizations but not enough was being done to combat it. The CIA responded by developing and maintaining the Counter terrorist Center (CTC) to gather intelligence about terrorist organizations and coordinate counter terrorism operations with other agencies.
During the early 90’s, the CIA’s director organized a new group, the Interagency Intelligence Committee on Terrorism (IICT), to improve counter terrorism operations worldwide. The Department of Defense and other federal law enforcement agencies participate in the IICT. The FBI, ATF, IICT, and the Border Patrol cooperate together to fight terrorism. Numerous other agencies specialize in counter terrorism, and state and local governments cooperate with non-profit groups and private defense contractors to stop terrorism. Those seeking employment with a government agency specializing in counter terrorism should earn an associate’s degree at a minimum and acquire some counter terrorism work experience. Competition for these jobs is intense since counter terrorism jobs are rewarding and typically pay well. Earn a graduate degree from an online or traditional university to enhance your opportunities.
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