LU Security Sciences Institute

Overview and Mission

The institute is poised to transform LU’s educational landscape by integrating the expertise of faculty from various colleges within LU, as well as collaborating with external partners and subject matter experts. The Security Sciences Institute will be located in the Health and Security Sciences Building along with the LU Nursing School with the building itself anticipated to be completed by the spring of 2026. The Institute will incorporate the existing Lincoln University Law Enforcement Training Academy, along with the potential development of a 911 Call Training Center and Fire & Rescue Training Academy.

The LU Security Sciences Institute's mission is to integrate the academic and professional development of current and future members of the law enforcement, military, security, and emergency response communities. Its vision is to meet the needs of local, state, and federal agencies for a skilled and diverse security sciences workforce through the provision of certificates, education, and training delivered in both traditional and non-traditional modes of delivery. Additionally, with Lincoln’s HBCU-driven history of serving minorities and its reputation as an innovative educational leader in science and security, LU’s Security Sciences Institute is uniquely positioned to make a significant impact in emergency response and security in communities and populations traditionally underrepresented in these fields.

The institute's integration of LU “security sciences” will cover a broad spectrum, including criminal justice, law enforcement, cybersecurity, emergency management, crisis response, military studies, and geospatial information sciences. This collaboration will build on the success of the Lincoln University Law Enforcement Training Academy (LULETA) and ROTC, which are enhanced by experiential learning environments.

Training and Certification for Highly Needed Jobs

The institute will provide training for highly needed jobs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of registered nurses is projected to grow 6% from 2022 to 2031, which is faster than the average for all occupations. The BLS reports that law enforcement jobs will increase by 3% from 2022-2032. As for cybersecurity, the BLS states that jobs for information security analysts are expected to grow 32% from 2022-2032. As of August 2022, there were over 700,000 cybersecurity positions open in the United States.

Due to the high number of certifications and training required for these positions, opportunities for jobs and advancement are always growing.  LU’s Security Sciences Institute offers a dynamic source of new opportunities for students and professionals in the security sciences. The SSI will help to create greater stability in this industry by filling a significant need for education, allowing pathways for new people to enter these important security fields and for existing professionals to advance in their careers.

Most importantly, SSI reflects Lincoln University’s unwavering commitment to advancing the lives and security of our students, the citizens of Jefferson City, all Missourians — and beyond.

Why is security sciences training important?

Security sciences training is crucial to keeping communities safe. The training increases...

• Public safety: Security sciences training equips individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to respond effectively to emergencies. From natural disasters to human-made threats, well-trained professionals contribute to safeguarding public safety and minimizing harm.
• Prevention and mitigation: Through comprehensive training, security sciences professionals learn to identify potential threats and vulnerabilities, enabling them to develop proactive strategies for prevention and mitigation.
• Cybersecurity prevention: In an increasingly digital world, cybersecurity is paramount. Security sciences training provides individuals with the expertise to understand and counter cyber threats, protecting sensitive information and critical infrastructures while ensuring the integrity of digital systems.
• Emergency response: Effective response during emergencies requires a coordinated effort from trained professionals. Security sciences training ensures that individuals have the necessary skills to manage a crisis, provide first aid, and coordinate with various agencies to immediate threats and protect lives.
• Adaptation to evolving threats: The field of security sciences is dynamic since threats are constantly evolving. Training in security sciences ensures that professionals stay informed about emerging risks and are equipped to adapt their strategies and tactics to effectively counter new and evolving threats.
• Protection of critical assets: Security sciences professionals play a vital role in safeguarding critical assets such as government facilities, transportation systems, energy infrastructure, and healthcare institutions. Their expertise is essential for maintaining the continuity of essential services.

For individuals pursuing careers in security sciences, training and education from the LU Security Sciences Institute will open up diverse and rewarding opportunities in both academics and workforce development. This will allow graduates to contribute meaningfully to the safety and security of their communities, as well as advance their own academic and professional goals.

For More Information

Please contact ...

Dr. Darius Watson
Assistant Provost For Academic Innovation, Outreach & Research
Lincoln University
Division of Academic Affairs
820 Chestnut Street, 206B Young Hall
Jefferson City, MO 65101
573-681-5216
watsond@lincolnu.edu