Virginia's National Security pathway develops expertise in security operations, intelligence analysis, counterterrorism, cybersecurity, and defense systems—addressing critical national security needs. This pathway combines security principles with technology and analysis.
Students study national security principles, intelligence analysis, security operations, cybersecurity concepts, emergency management, and border security. They analyze security scenarios and develop security plans through case studies.
Graduates work in intelligence agencies, defense contractors, security operations, cybersecurity roles, or military positions. Virginia's significant national security presence creates extensive opportunities. Advanced students pursue security and defense programs.
National Security at a Glance
4
Courses
4
Credentials
4
Career Paths
State Standards & Framework
Virginia's national security standards address security principles, intelligence analysis, operational security, and classified information handling. Standards align with federal security requirements.
Students demonstrate competency through security analysis projects and scenario assessments. The state integrates security clearance awareness and federal compliance knowledge.
Typical Course Sequence
| Course |
|---|
| National Security Fundamentals |
| Intelligence Analysis and Operations |
| Cybersecurity and Information Protection |
| Emergency Management and Defense |
Industry Certifications & Credentials
- ✓Microsoft Office Specialist
- ✓IC3 Digital Literacy Certification
- ✓First Aid/CPR/AED
- ✓National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC)
Career Opportunities
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Growth projections from BLS Employment Projections (2023-2033). Cost-of-living adjustment uses BEA Regional Price Parities (2023). Entry-level salaries reflect the 25th percentile; experienced salaries reflect the median.
Intelligence Analyst
Entry LevelSalary range: $81,990 - $140,840
Security Operations Specialist
Entry LevelSalary range: $36,450 - $55,710
Cybersecurity Analyst
ExperiencedSalary range: $101,610 - $166,510
Security Operations Manager
ExperiencedSalary range: $133,680 - $190,540
Work-Based Learning Opportunities
Students intern at defense contractors, government security agencies, and cybersecurity firms throughout Virginia.
Career & Technical Student Organization
Students in this pathway can participate in DECA, gaining leadership experience and competing in career-related events.
How Sage Helps Virginia CTE Programs
AI-Powered Curriculum
Generate standards-aligned lesson plans in minutes, not months
Virginia Standards Built In
Pre-loaded with Virginia's CTE standards and frameworks
Teacher Customization
Teachers personalize content while maintaining standards alignment
Ongoing Updates
Curriculum stays current as Virginia standards and industry needs evolve
Related Pathways in Virginia
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