Directors of Casino Security

High School

Education and training requirements vary from job to job. Classes in English, writing, computer science, psychology, sociology, computer science, social studies, and foreign language will be useful.

Postsecondary Training

Directors of casino security typically have gone through in-house training programs as they moved through the ranks in the security department. This program generally covers areas such as protection, public relations, report writing, deterring crises, first aid, etc.

Aspiring directors should earn a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, law, or a related field. It should be noted that on-the-job experience can generally be substituted for educational requirements at some employers. Some colleges offer associate’s and bachelor's degree programs in casino management, gaming operations management, or hospitality with a specialty in gaming. These programs are generally located in states that have a large number of casinos. Courses in these programs include those in a basic liberal arts and business, plus classes that are specific to the gaming industry including casino management, casino marketing, gaming information system, gaming law, casino security, business communications, and human resources.

Courses, seminars, or workshops in casino operations, games protection, fraud detection and prevention, and security will be helpful. These are often offered at gaming academies or colleges that offer degrees in gaming or casino management or hospitality. Industry non-specific courses in security might also be available in community colleges.

Certification

Some colleges and universities offer certificate programs in gaming operations management, casino management, and related fields. Programs typically last six months to a year and are available in online, in-person, and hybrid formats.

Other Education and Training

Individuals aspiring to careers as directors of casino security might attend in-house management training programs at gaming schools, traditional colleges and universities, academies, or institutes located throughout the country in areas hosting gaming. Classes in basic casino operations, surveillance, security, floor management, gaming regulations, marketing, and customer services will be helpful.

Colleges and universities in states where gambling is popular often offer continuing education classes that will be useful to current or aspiring directors. For example, the University of Nevada, Los Angeles offers Foundations of Casino Surveillance & Investigations, a one-day seminar that covers topics such as Surveillance #101, Internal Theft, and Top Casino Scams.

Some states require all members of the security department including the director to complete a specified training program as well as an annual in-service course to stay abreast of changes in the security field and gaming regulations.