Homeland Defense and Border Security (HDBS) is a four-week course (two weeks distance-learning and two weeks in residence) designed to provide civilian and military participants with opportunities to engage in threat analysis and exchange best practices on homeland security and defense topics, including: border control; synthetic narcotics; chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear response; disaster operations, mega-event and port security, critical infrastructure protection, and food and supply chain security. The course is implemented using a mixed methodology of readings, lectures, group discussions, field visits, and the development of individualized action plans developed by participants, focusing on one or more of the course themes, with an eye to implementing them in their home organizations. HDBS seeks to provide participants with a bridge between US frameworks for homeland security and defense and those of partner nations.
The course is designed to foster dialogue among civilians and military officers about the main challenges and best practices related to homeland security and defense.
Key participant takeaways:
All participants must successfully complete a course writing assignment that may take the form of an essay, policy paper, action plan or similar.
Candidates must be professionally engaged in defense or security issues in their countries, coming from the following institutions/activities:
In accordance with Department of Defense policy, citizens of “high income” countries (as established by the World Bank) are not eligible for scholarships. As of 01 July 2025, this restriction applies to the following Western Hemisphere nations and territories:
Citizens of these countries may still apply to courses, but in a fully self-funded status. Self-funded candidates must meet all eligibility standards and comply with all application requirements, including application deadlines, as well as being able to cover the expenses of their own travel, lodging, meals, and incidentals. US citizens cannot (by law) receive scholarships, but may also apply to attend in a self-funded status. US citizens and other self-funded candidates should contact the Admissions Office for additional guidance.
Candidates must possess a university degree or, in cases where a candidate does not hold a degree, equivalent practical experience. Military and police personnel must have completed a command and staff course or equivalent. Exceptions are evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
This course is conducted in Spanish and English with simultaneous translation available.
