Until recently I was all set to start a DBA at Walden and then I stumbled on to NCU's DBA with a concentration in Homeland Security. I lean more towards a DBA instead of a PhD since I would like to research a real world problem instead of trying to come up with a new theory. Being a former Marine Captain I am fascinated with Homeland Security. I trained with Border Patrol and Customs agents and loved it and would like to apply that experience as a career and this is where the DBA or PhD comes in handy. The DHS website shows only five approved doctoral level programs, NCU and Walden being among the five. I haven't found much pro or con about NCU. I know that I could start sooner than I could at Walden, which is nice. NCU is cheaper, also a plus. Walden has a PhD in Homeland Security and NCU has a DBA and PhD option. My real question is, what is the opinion of NCU and does anyone on the board have experience with NCU?
This might have more to do with the trajectory of your career than the schools involved. Where do you want to find yourself in 5-6 years? As you move up the ladder of degrees you become increasingly specialized. If both degrees place you within that trajectory then I'd say, between these two, choose the less expensive alternative.
I was almost enrolling at NCU, but I couldn't transcend the negative rap on it by past and sometimes present students. More importantly, the perception of it. A degree at that level is not going to be all about factors such as low cost or short duration. Reputation is very important. How will it be received by employers. Look carefully at that. Have you looked at Bellevue University's PhD in Human Capital Management or Indiana Tech's PhD in Global Leadership? A PhD is highly visible and prestigious. You can do work on Homeland Security within the framework of the doctoral program. Especially so is the Bellevue University program. These are land based universities that are viewed differently than strictly on-line programs.
I have mixed feelings about NCU. The quality of the work was great, the faculty was great (except for one instructor that was worthless), but the administrative side was worst then horrible. The academic advisor was of no value and just told me "ask your instructor" who then said, "I don't know, the AA should help you with that since it is school policy" After going back to the AA and fighting with her she would give me an answer.
Yes I am currently enrolled and I am looking for another school to complete my Phd in Education. The worst school ever would not recommend at all. Just my personal experience with them.
New Jersey City University: D.Sc. in Civil Security Leadership, Management and Policy “…delivered on-line with residence for selected summer weeks (2 weeks each year) and four weekends throughout the year. Doctorate Program - NJCU :: Professional Studies :: Security Studies - NJCU :: Professional Studies :: Security Studies
I saw this program earlier and liked it but there is just no way I can take that much time off from work. I already have to take two weeks off in December because the base shuts down. Besides, who wants to go to New Jersey? :firedevil:
