Security & Protective Services in Virginia

Virginia's Security & Protective Services pathway develops expertise in security operations, threat assessment, protective procedures, security technology, and loss prevention—preparing students for careers protecting people and property.

Students study security principles, threat assessment, access control, surveillance systems, emergency procedures, crowd management, and loss prevention. They practice security operations through partnerships with security companies.

Graduates work as security guards, security technicians, loss prevention specialists, or security managers. Every business and organization needs security. Advanced students pursue security management programs.

Security & Protective Services at a Glance

State Standards & Framework

Virginia's security and protective services standards address security practices, threat assessment, surveillance, emergency response, and security technology. Standards align with security industry practices.

Students demonstrate competency through security operations scenarios and certifications. The state integrates security procedures and emergency response.

View Virginia CTE Framework →

Typical Course Sequence

View Virginia course standards →

Industry Certifications & Credentials

• ✓OSHA 10-Hour General Industry
• ✓NOCTI Criminal Justice
• ✓National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC)
• ✓First Aid/CPR/AED
• ✓STOP THE BLEED
• ✓First Aid for Severe Trauma (FAST)

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.

Work-Based Learning Opportunities

Students intern at security companies, corporate security departments, and retail security operations throughout Virginia.

Career & Technical Student Organization