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From protecting the homeland to guarding the mall, security careers are more available than ever.
Mall security officers may be the most visible in the security field. But there are also careers available in:
Investigation
Economic crime and loss prevention
Executive protection
Cash management transport (armored cars)
Alarm services
Patrol
Campus security
Information security
Sales and product development
You need a high school diploma to work as a security officer in a mall or other business; if you want to get into management or investigation, plan on pursuing a college degree.
"Before 9/11, when you talked about security, you were talking about the private sector. But since that time, everything has changed," says Bruce McBride, associate professor and director of the criminal justice program at Utica College in New York. "Everyone's in security in some form or fashion. What's your favorite shopping mall? They have security."
McBride suggests studying criminal justice, administration or business in college. And regardless of where you want to end up, McBride suggests starting as a security officer or as an intern for a security service agency. That, he says, helps you "get an idea of what's going on and how to deal with people. Then when you graduate, at least you have some work experience."
