About the Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Academic Engagement

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), along with a large number of partners from across all sectors, including governmental, academia and private sectors, worked together to observe the annual International Education Week, which supports international education and exchange across the globe.

The DHS’ role in education is apparent, as this governmental agency frequently welcomes international students into the United States and works to ensure that the United States remains a sought-out destination for students around the world.

In fact, there are many departments within the DHS who are involved in the mission of encouraging international students to study in the United States. It is through the DHS’ Office of Academic Achievement that the DHS works to improve the experience of international students and their host schools and coordinate a number of international student issues and initiatives.

Working closely with the academic community, the Office of Academic Achievement also studies international student policies and processes, which includes the Homeland Security Academic Advisory Council (HSAAC), an advisory committee that includes the work of the academic community. The HSAAC serves to advise the DHS on matters that related to the field of academia and homeland security.

In 2013 alone, the DHS worked with a number of federal agencies to participate in more than 100 outreach events. Some of the agencies involved in outreach events and interagency panels included:

Immigration and Customs Enforcement
Customs and Border Protection
Citizenship and Immigration Services
Student and Exchange Visitor Program

What is the Office of Academic Engagement?

Formed in 2011, the DHS Office of Academic Engagement is responsible for building and improving relationships with members of the academic community. The Office of Academic Engagement focuses its efforts on five, key areas: