Security Specialist Course (Self-Paced)

This course includes

24 hours of project-based training from experts
Answers from real instructors
Proprietary workbook included
Retake for free within 1 year
Verified digital certificate of completion
Learn at an accredited institution
Credits: 2.4 CEUs

This course is self-paced. For live online or in-person instruction, take Security Specialist Course.

This comprehensive course is primarily designed for the individual who has been assigned security responsibilities and has little or no experience in the security field. A supervisor/manager responsible for the supervision of Security Specialists, but who is not a seasoned security professional, may also benefit. Additionally, a newly appointed contractor Facility Security Officer (FSO) will find this course valuable.

Included in this course are a combination of instructor briefings, video presentations, group discussions, and practical exercises. Course content includes instruction on addressing the personnel security program, to include the application of the national security adjudicative guidelines, and other aspects of the program; insider threats; planning and addressing physical security; information security; conducting briefings, including travel for the clearance holder, initial and termination briefings, and others; cybersecurity; and more.

Upon completion, the Security Specialist will be more informed and prepared to execute their security responsibilities as dictated by national regulations. The course will prepare the attendee to be familiar with the duties of the modern Security Specialist.

Full Tuition

$1,649
Due before the class starts

This course includes

24 hours of project-based training from experts
Answers from real instructors
Proprietary workbook included
Retake for free within 1 year
Verified digital certificate of completion
Learn at an accredited institution
Credits: 2.4 CEUs

Learning Experience Highlights

Training from government‑experienced instructors

Receive instruction from subject‑matter experts who bring proven government experience.

Specialized for government & DoD

Courses that are regularly updated based on feedback and industry developments, ensuring versions are mapped to federal competencies.

The instructor was wonderful and so knowledgeable. The course materials were extremely relevant to what my job is. I feel like I can be better because of this class.
— 2025 student

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Real-world solutions

Directly addressing the day-to-day challenges of federal employees.

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24/7 access to our premium course videos and projects.
Industry experts are assigned as your course instructor. Message your instructor with any questions.
Participate in GSUSA online discussion forums — share ideas and receive additional support.
Hands-on quizzes and mini projects to test and reinforce concepts.

Earn a Certificate of Completion

Upon completion of this course, you’ll receive an official certificate testifying to your mastery of the curriculum. We’ll send you a link where you can download your certificate, share it online with your friends, post it to your professional network on LinkedIn, and view all your earned certificates. Congratulations on your achievement!

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Sample credential for completion of Security Specialist Course (Self-Paced)

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Security Specialist Course (Self-Paced) Curriculum

What You'll Learn at a Glance

Understand the core responsibilities of a Security Specialist, even without prior experience in the field
Apply national security adjudicative guidelines and address key personnel security requirements
Recognize and respond to insider threats and implement proactive security measures
Plan and evaluate physical security and information security procedures
Conduct effective security briefings, including travel, initial, and termination sessions
Gain foundational knowledge of cybersecurity protocols relevant to federal security roles

Course Syllabus

Download Syllabus PDF

Module 1: Introduction to Physical Security

Understanding the first layers of defense in protecting personnel, assets, and classified information.
Overview of physical and personnel security, including the role of HR, senior management, and security staff in the program.
Examining the supervisors' role in identifying threats and ensuring adherence to security measures.

Module 2: Physical Security Site Planning

Creating a physical security site plan to safeguard personnel and assets against threats such as espionage, terrorism, and theft.
Exploring various security measures such as video monitoring, intrusion detection, and access control to enhance protection.
Planning security with crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED) strategies and effective site assessments.

Module 3: A Common-sense Approach to Physical Security

Implementing risk management strategies to prioritize vulnerabilities and mitigate potential threats effectively.
Assessing threats such as tailgating, hackers, and unauthorized access, and implementing appropriate countermeasures.
Training employees to recognize and respond to security threats, including safeguarding sensitive data and information.

Module 4: Other Physical Threats

Understanding and preparing for bomb threats, workplace violence, and other physical threats to the security of personnel and facilities.
Developing and executing a bomb incident plan, including evacuation, search, and disposal procedures.
Identifying critical incident response teams (CIRT) and ensuring proper response to potential threats.

Module 5: The Cyber Threat and the Criminal/Terrorism Connection

Understanding the intersection between cybersecurity threats and physical security, including the rise of cyber espionage and terrorism.
Exploring the threats posed by cybercriminals, including social engineering tactics like phishing, and the importance of cybersecurity in physical security.
Educating employees about risks related to mobile device security, password protection, and social media deception.

Group Training

Since 1921, Graduate School USA has partnered with over 125 federal agencies and trained more than one million federal employees. Led by instructors with deep, real-world knowledge of federal regulations, policies, and practices, our private group programs are practical, mission-driven, and tailored to your agency’s objectives. We offer expertise across key federal domains—including human resources, financial management, acquisition and contracting, leadership, and more—to deliver training where and how your team needs it.

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Installments
	10% non-refundable deposit
$1,649.00	Total You Pay