Online Learning / Technology Requirements

The Master of Science in Homeland Security Management and the Advanced Certificate in Homeland Security Management are offered in an online interactive format, making it possible for students – especially those employed as homeland security professionals in varied geographical locations – to take classes from wherever they are in the world. Long Island University offers flexible course schedules and virtual participation that are essential for busy homeland security professionals. Online learning makes the homeland security management programs available to a more diverse cross-section of traditional students and practitioners from homeland security organizations and agencies across the nation, thus enhancing the quality of education by broadening the range of perspectives and experiences represented.

About Online Learning 

As managers and executives in demanding Homeland Security fields, our faculty members recognize the difficulties of balancing the demands of work with a rigorous program of graduate study. We know that rotating shifts, changing assignments, extended work hours, evolving situations, and emerging crises can challenge even the most committed students. We recognize the value of an educational experience that integrates theory with practice.

Our innovative online approach to professional education permits busy professionals to participate in a 'virtual classroom' – to attend lectures, participate in class discussions, and to interact with students and faculty – and to structure their attendance around the demands of their professional and personal lives. The programs utilize Blackboard software – a powerful, highly intuitive, and easily mastered online learning platform – to support interactive learning.

Online classes are 'asynchronous' – students are not required to be in a particular place at a particular time. Instead, students access their 'virtual classroom' via a secure Internet connection and complete course requirements at the time and place most convenient to them. Classes are conducted in seminar format using interactive discussion boards led by faculty: after reviewing the assigned readings, students access their virtual classroom and respond to the discussion issues of the week.

Most assigned and recommended supplementary readings students will need for their classes are available for download in electronic format directly from the virtual classroom site, and an extensive online research library of specialized homeland security documents in electronic format is available. In addition, students also have access to LIU’s extensive online library databases.

Distance Learning Student Complaints

Students wishing to dispute or appeal an academic matter are encouraged to pursue the grievance processes identified in the campus Student Handbook or current Academic Bulletin. Complaints related to operational matters may be directed to the campus Registrar or Provost’s office. Students may also file a complaint with the New York State Department of Education, in Albany: www.highered.nysed.gov/ocue/COMPLAINTFORM.pdf.

Technology Requirements

Online learning does not require a high level of technological sophistication. Students need a basic computer, a high-speed Internet connection, and a standard web browser to log on and attend class.

Online courses at Long Island University involve extensive interaction with technology that is supported by the Internet. In order to have the best possible online learning experience, your computer or laptop must meet certain minimum hardware and software requirements.

Computer Skills:
Students are expected to be proficient and able to perform basic computer functions including e-mail, internet browsing, download/installation of software, word processing, file saving, file management, and backup.

PC/Mac Hardware Requirements:

- 4GB of RAM

- 250 GB of Available Hard Disk Space

- Broadband Access (Cable Modem/Fiber/DSL)

- Computer microphone and speakers

- Webcam (720p or greater)

Supported Operating Systems:

- Windows 8.1/10/11 (PC)

- Mac OSX 10.14 or greater (Mac)

Required Software:

- Microsoft Office 2016/365 or newer (including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint)

- Adobe Acrobat Reader (to read .PDF documents) - Free Download

- Anti-Virus Software (updated regularly)*

*The HSMI supports the belief that all users (both PC and Mac) actively connected to the internet should maintain proper anti-virus protection with a program such as McAfee or Norton.

Recommended Software:

- Firefox Browser (PC/Mac) 78.0 or greater - Free Download

Prospective students with questions or concerns regarding these computer requirements should speak with an Admissions Counselor before applying to the HSMI program.

If you have any questions about technology requirements, please contact us.