Corporations are continually concerned with loss prevention, risk management, and the safety and security of their businesses and employees. These trends have led to an increasing need for qualified security professionals in a variety of industries. At Kaplan University, you can study to earn a Private Security Certificate while enjoying the convenience and flexibility of online learning.

 Program Highlights 

The online Private Security Certificate curriculum is designed to help you:

  • Develop the fundamental skills required for preventing and investigating various types of crime, including white-collar crime and fraud
  • Explore the trial process and gain an understanding of tort law
  • Study constitutional concepts such as search and seizure and discovery
  • Understand the U.S. criminal justice system and the processes for juvenile and adult offenders

Prepare for Certification


Certification can give you an edge when competing for jobs in private or corporate security and other areas of criminal justice. The Private Security Certificate may help you earn the Certified Protection Professional (CPP) certification or qualify for membership in the American Society of Industrial Security (ASIS).*

 Curriculum for Private Security Certificate 

    Courses Credits
    Introduction to the Criminal Justice System 5
    Introduction to Fraud Examination 5
    Private Security 5
    Criminal Investigation 5
    Crime Prevention 5
    Risk Management 5
    White-Collar Crime 5
    Legal Foundations of Criminal Evidence 6
    Security Management and Administration 6
    Tort Law 6
    Total Program Requirements 53

 What Are the Career Opportunities? 

This program provides you with the specialized knowledge necessary to seek employment in law enforcement, court systems, corrections, and private and corporate security.† 

 Prepare for Future Studies 

If you wish to pursue further studies, credits earned in fulfillment of this certificate may be applied toward the requirements of Kaplan University associate's and bachelor's degree programs.When the time is right, come back and earn your associate's or bachelor's degree online at Kaplan University

For more information, chat live or call an Admissions Advisor at 866.527.5268 (Toll Free).

Tuition and Fees

Cost per credit hour$371.00
Total program requirements53
Total cost of tuition$19,663.00

This program requires a $100 technology fee per term. Effective June 5, 2010, a minimum tuition deposit, depending on your program and as described in the Tuition and Fees Supplement, is required at the time of enrollment. The deposit will be credited toward your tuition when you begin classes. Qualifying transfer credit may reduce your total costs. Refer to the University Catalog for transfer of credit policy. We encourage you to explore the availability of financial aid and scholarships. For more information, chat live or call an Admissions Advisor at 866.527.5268 (Toll Free).

Kaplan University offers tuition discounts to active-duty military servicemembers and veterans. Call 866.583.4412 (Toll Free) to speak to a military Admissions Advisor.

Chat with a representative about your financial aid options

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*Although the program is designed to prepare students for various certification and licensing examinations, Kaplan University cannot guarantee students will pass the exams.
† Additional police academy training may be required to qualify for certain positions in law enforcement.