The first comprehensive collection of readings on the topic, Introduction to Homeland Security provides students with the most recent research and policy related to homeland security in the United States.

The text is divided into three parts. In Part 1, students become familiar with the genesis and mission of the Department of Homeland Security. Part 2 addresses threats to homeland security, and Part 3 explores responses to these threats.

In addition to discussing recent developments in homeland security, the anthology also gives historical perspective and covers policy and operations.

Appendices at the end of the text present information on initial homeland security presidential directives, how the structure of government changed after the creation of the Department of Homeland Security, the structure of the department, communication networking, and the cybersecurity chain of command.

Informed by expertise in the areas of criminology and law enforcement, Introduction to Homeland Security gives readers a firm understanding of this new area of study. The book can be used in courses on law enforcement, criminal justice, criminology, political science, sociology, anthropology and psychology.

Mark Lanier earned his Ph.D. at Michigan State University. Dr. Lanier is a professor, a full member of the graduate faculty, and the dean's special projects assistant in the College of Arts and Science at the University of Alabama. He writes extensively on crime and criminology.

Ted Sexton, recently appointed as Director of the Los Angeles Homeland Security Division, has taught courses in homeland security and criminal justice for the Department of Criminal Justice. A longtime Tuscaloosa County sheriff, in 2007 he was honored as the nation’s Outstanding Sheriff of the Year.