phd program international security

Security Studies

Topics of study include:

• Grand strategies of the major powers.
• Arms competitions.
• Coercive diplomacy.
• Proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.
• Rapid shifts in regional and global distributions of capabilities.
• Insurgency, civil war, and regional political instability.
• Military force composition and capability.
• Civil-military relations.
• Innovations in military technologies.

The cluster combines social science training in international security and national defense policy, focused study of specific regions of the world, and exploration of the technical and scientific aspects of proliferation, weapons innovations, terrorist and counterterrorist operations, and insurgency and counterinsurgency warfare. This is an in-residence program, though absences may be taken for approved field research.

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Intelligence and Global Security

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This distinctive program is designed to educate, train and prepare candidates to advance in national security-based academic, government (including intelligence, military and law enforcement agencies), and private sector communities.

Considering today’s complex global security threats this degree will provide doctoral candidates with a comprehensive, multidisciplinary understanding of the confluence of threats posed by terrorist groups, lone actors, para-military guerrilla groups, rogue states’ regular armies, cyber criminals (including state actors and terrorists), climate change, governance breakdowns, and public health threats such as the naturally-occurring biological-based infectious diseases (such as the COVID-19 pandemic). This multidisciplinary program draws on the university’s robust programs in counterterrorism, cybersecurity, computer science, critical infrastructure, and others.

The Ph.D. in Intelligence and Global Security program will enable the graduating students to apply theoretical, conceptual, and practical ‘real-world’ skills in intelligence and security studies in their doctoral dissertations that are essential to enter and advance in the public and private intelligence and national security sectors.

This degree provides a path for current professionals in the Intelligence and Global Security field to explore new ground in the critical field of Intelligence and Global Security. The completion of the Ph.D. in Intelligence and Global Security program requires the student to produce, present, and defend a doctoral dissertation after receiving the required approvals from the student’s Committee and the Ph.D. Review Board.

Why Capitol?

Learn around your busy schedule

Program is 100% online, with no on-campus classes or residencies required, allowing you the flexibility needed to balance your studies and career.

Proven academic excellence

Study at a university that specializes in industry-focused education in technology fields, with a faculty that includes many industrial and academic experts.

Expert guidance in doctoral research

Capitol’s doctoral programs are supervised by faculty with extensive experience in chairing doctoral dissertations and mentoring students as they launch their academic careers. You’ll receive the guidance you need to successfully complete your doctoral research project and build credentials in the field. 

Key Faculty

Professor of Practice

Adjunct Professor

Dissertation Chair

Degree Details

This program may be completed with a minimum of 60 credit hours, but may require additional credit hours, depending on the time required to complete the dissertation/publication research. Students who are not prepared to defend after completion of the 60 credits will be required to enroll in RSC-899, a one-credit, eight-week continuation course. Students are required to be continuously enrolled/registered in the RSC-899 course until they successfully complete their dissertation defense/exegesis.

The PhD program offers 2 degree completion requirement options.

• Dissertation Option: the student will produce, present, and defend a doctoral dissertation after receiving the required approvals from the student’s Committee and the PhD Review Boards.
• Publication Option: the student will produce, present, and defend doctoral research that is published as articles (3 required) in peer reviewed journals identified by the university and the student’s Committee. Students must receive the required approvals from the student’s Committee and the PhD Review Board prior to publication.

Prior Achieved Credits May Be Accepted

Student Outcomes: 

Upon graduation, graduates will be able to:

• Integrate and synthesize theory and intel within the field of Intelligence and Global Security
• Demonstrate advanced knowledge and competencies in Intelligence and Global Security
• Analyze theories, tools and frameworks used in Intelligence and Global Security.
• Execute a plan to complete a significant piece of scholarly work in Intelligence and Global Security
• Critique human skills and practices for selecting teams that work in Intelligence and Global Security

Tuition & Fees

Tuition rates are subject to change.

The following rates are in effect for the 2024-2025 academic year, beginning in Fall 2024 and continuing through Summer 2025:

• The application fee is $100
• The per-credit charge for doctorate courses is $950. This is the same for in-state and out-of-state students.
• Retired military receive a $50 per credit hour tuition discount
• Active duty military receive a $100 per credit hour tuition discount for doctorate level coursework.
• Information technology fee $40 per credit hour.
• High School and Community College full-time faculty and full-time staff receive a 20% discount on tuition for doctoral programs.

Find additional information for 2024-2025 doctorate tuition and fees.

Need more info, or ready to apply?

Security Studies Doctorate

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Prepare for a career in international affairs, foreign policymaking, policy research or military service with this rigorous interdisciplinary program covering a wide range of issues related to international security.

The online Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in security studies will help prepare you for a career in research, teaching, foreign policymaking and military service through a broad exploration of topics, including war, civil conflicts, insurgencies, terrorism, foreign policymaking and international affairs. Students will receive an interdisciplinary education from award-winning faculty that builds on rigorous historical and social scientific research methods. The two core departments are history and political science, but students may draw on expertise and coursework from other disciplines as well.

*This estimate is for illustrative purposes only. Your hours and costs will differ, depending on your transfer hours, course choices and your academic progress. See more about tuition and financial aid.

Career Prospect Highlights

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Admission Requirements

All students are required to meet the general university admission requirements.

Additional Requirements

• Undergraduate and graduate degree from a recognized and accredited institution
• International applicants must provide an Affidavit of Financial Support and documentation of English language proficiency. Detailed information about these issues is provided on the   international students website .

Program-Specific Application Deadlines

• For fall semester: January 8 or May 7*
• Fall semester: January 8

Additional Documentation

Your application must include the following:

• See the security studies application page for details and forms.
• At least two of the three letters should be from those who can speak authoritatively to your potential to succeed in graduate studies in an academic context.
• The test scores may not be more than five years old, and they must be sent to Kansas State University directly from ETS (photocopies of scores are not acceptable).
• There is no code available for Security Studies. Please use the general Kansas State University code (6334) and inform the KSU Graduate School that your scores have been sent to K-State and should be uploaded to your online application in Security Studies.
• Official reports of Graduate Record of Examination (GRE) test scores are required for the Ph.D. program.
• An official transcript from each academic institution you have attended (including Kansas State University, if applicable) since high school.
• This should be between ten and thirty pages and representative of your best scholarly work. Term papers, thesis chapters, and copies of published articles are all examples of acceptable writing samples.
• These requirements may be waived for applicants who have earned a degree from a college or university in the United States not more than two years before the time of application.
• The fee for U.S. citizens and permanent residents of the U.S. is $65.00.
• The fee for international applicants (individuals who are neither citizens nor permanent residents of the U.S.) is $75.00.

*The application deadline can be extended to May 7 for domestic applicants who do not require funding to attend.

The security studies doctorate will prepare you for roles in research or teaching or to advance your career in fields such as:

• international affairs
• foreign policymaking
• policy research and analysis
• intelligence analysis
• military services
• homeland security
• law enforcement

A maximum of 30 credit hours may be transferred into the doctoral program. An additional 30 hours will be research hours towards the dissertation.

Required Courses (15 credits)

Historical Research Sequence (6 credits)

• HIST 911 – Historical Approaches to Security (3 credits)
• Hist 912 – Historical Methods in Security Studies (3 credits)

Political Research Sequence (6 credits)

• POLSC 900 – Advanced Research Methods I
• POLSC 901 – Advanced Research Methods II

Final Doctoral-Level Required Course (3 credits)

This course must be taken after completing the history and political science two course research sequences. Each student must complete a directed reading with the chair of the student’s doctoral committee. The course is intended to allow the student to hone his or her dissertation topic in one-on-one consultation with the doctoral chair.

• HIST 985 – Readings in History (1-3 credits)
• POLSC 985 – Readings in Security Studies (1-6 credits)

Additional Coursework (15 credits)

The other fifteen hours of coursework will be elective courses chosen in consultation with the Ph.D. committee to prepare the student for research and teaching in security studies, as well as to help prepare for the Ph.D. exams. These electives may be drawn from History, Political Science, or other disciplines. Courses outside history and political science, or below 700-level, require prior approval of the student's supervisory committee.

The intent of the Ph.D. coursework is to prepare students for writing the dissertation. Upon completion of the Ph.D. coursework students will have the research skills necessary to complete a dissertation-length scholarly study on a well-defined topic developed in consultation with their Ph.D. Chair.

Foreign Language Requirement

There is no fixed language requirement for the security studies Ph.D. program. In some cases, English language skills may be sufficient for completing the degree. In other cases, a student’s research plans may necessitate a deeper knowledge of statistical research methods rather than a foreign language skill. Different projects will ultimately require a different set of skills. Accordingly, each student’s advisory committee will determine what, if any, foreign language requirement may be necessary for the completion of the dissertation project.

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Security Studies

About the program.

The Security Studies Program’s mission is to teach a new generation of analysts, policymakers, and scholars to think critically and act responsibly in the face of the 21st century’s most pressing national and international security problems. At SSP we offer a multidisciplinary master’s degree designed to prepare graduates for positions within the defense and security fields, and our curriculum is designed to give students a broad array of course options addressing numerous areas of study. Through their study at SSP, young professionals are able to apply their recent theoretical undergraduate education to practical policy applications. Meanwhile, students with mid- to long-term experience in the military, intelligence, and defense contracting sectors enhance their practical knowledge with critical thinking, analytical writing, and theory-based solutions. Class sizes are kept small, allowing students to learn not only from their professors, but also from their peers. SSP recognizes the benefit of having students who are currently working or interning in the security field. As such, we not only accommodate but encourage part-time students. All but a small number of SSP courses take place in the evening, as do many of our social and academic events.

Degrees Offered

Accelerated program (Georgetown students only)

• B.S.F.S./M.A.

Joint degree programs

• M.A./Ph.D. (Government)

Admissions Requirements

For general graduate admissions requirements, visit the Office of Graduate Admissions’ Application Information  page. Review the  program’s website  for additional information on program application requirements.

Application Materials required:

• Graduate School of Arts and Sciences Application Form
• $90.00 Application Fee
• Resume or CV (No page limit)
• Statement of Purpose: Your statement of purpose is not to exceed 500 words and should address your intellectual interests and professional and academic goals. The statement of purpose is a critical component of the SSP application. Please carefully explain how SSP specifically fits into your future academic and professional plans.
• Optional Statement: As Georgetown is a diverse, global community, we encourage you to upload a brief statement of up to 500 words to help the Admissions Committee understand the contribution your personal background and individual experiences would make to our community. As appropriate, you may wish to address any educational, familial, cultural, economic, and social experiences that have helped to shape your educational and professional goals; or how your background (e.g., first generation student, resident outside the U.S.) or activities (e.g., community service and leadership) will contribute to the diversity of perspectives and ideas at Georgetown University.
• Transcripts: Applicants are required to upload to the application system copies of official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended. Do not send electronic or paper copies of your official transcripts before receiving an offer of admission. Review the Graduate School’s How to Apply page for additional details and FAQs.
• Letters of recommendation from three (3) individuals who can assess the applicant’s qualifications and preparation for graduate study in security studies. Letters of recommendation are to be submitted electronically using the online application system. Personal letters of recommendation, such as those from colleagues, coaches, and family friends, are not accepted.
• Official GRE scores sent directly from the Educational Testing Service (ETS). See below for additional information on standardized testing.
• Supplemental Analytical Writing Sample: Please answer the following prompt in no more than 600 words: Discuss a security challenge facing the US or the international system and identify potential solutions.
• The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
• The International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

Application Deadlines

• Spring Enrollment: October 1
• Fall Enrollment: January 15

Degree Requirements

Students finish the program when they complete 36 hours of credit while maintaining at least a 3.0 cumulative grade point average. The program does not accept any transfer credits.

To receive an M.A. in Security Studies, students must complete:

• Theory and Practice of Security in the first semester of the program
• Strategy/Policy/Military Operations in the first semester of the program
• The core course in the chosen area of concentration in the first year of the program
• Three additional courses in the chosen concentration
• One course from each of the following distribution categories: area studies; economics and security; and technology and security
• Three electives of the student’s choice, approved by the program
• Students are also required to pass a three-hour written comprehensive examination given during the student’s final semester in the program.

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Program Contact: SSP Admissions, [email protected]

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PhD in International Relations

Engage in problem-driven research with a truly global focus

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program in International Relations trains scholars to conduct cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research across key areas of international affairs and political science. A combination of in-depth hands-on fieldwork and comprehensive theoretical study enables Fletcher's PhD students to uncover the meaningful questions that ultimately shape both their future research and their careers.

Developing tomorrow's thought leaders

With approximately 50 students engaged in coursework or research, the PhD program is an integral and vibrant component of the Fletcher community. Working alongside our world-renowned faculty, Fletcher doctoral candidates acquire the theoretical and practical skills needed to produce research that will help shape future discourse on international relations. After completing their degrees, graduates go on to successful high-level careers in academia and research, and in the non-profit, government, and private sectors.

Fletcher’s PhD candidates come from around the world, bringing perspectives and experiences that inform their research and goals.  Get to know their stories and learn how they plan to shape the future of international affairs.

After completing their degrees, doctoral graduates go on to successful high-level careers in academia and research, and in the non-profit, government, and private sectors.  They make their impact on an array of fields, often maintaining a presence in both academia and practice.

Fletcher PhD students move through three program phases on their way from admission to graduation. They start with classes, arranged within a structured curriculum that still allows significant flexibility in course selection. When their class requirements are complete, students take comprehensive exams, and then move on as PhD candidates to research and write a dissertation.

Shaping Your PhD Through Coursework

In shaping their curriculum, students start with a primary field of study, through which they develop a depth of expertise unique to their interests. The primary fields of study that support PhD studies are:

• Comparative and Regional Studies
• Gender and Intersectional Analysis
• Human Security and Humanitarian Affairs
• International Business
• International Development and Environmental Policy
• International Security

Students build on their primary field of expertise by developing a breadth of foundational knowledge in a second field of study, which can be any of the  fields offered at Fletcher  or might be a self-designed field. Regardless of their choice of field, all students also pursue foundational courses in international relations theory and in research methodology. The two fields of study later become the basis for comprehensive exams.

Students seeking additional opportunities to individualize their studies may cross-register for up to a quarter of their classes at another graduate school at Tufts University or at Harvard University.

Students who have received their master's degree at another institution generally pursue twelve courses at Fletcher, with limited opportunities to have prior coursework applied to their degree. Those who possess a MALD generally pursue an additional four courses, for a total of twenty courses for the two degrees.

Demonstrating Knowledge Through Comprehensive Examinations

Students demonstrate mastery of their subjects through comprehensive examinations, composed of a written exam in each of the two fields of study and an oral exam that integrates the material from the two areas. Students generally sit for their comprehensive examinations within a year of completing their coursework.

Developing and Writing a Dissertation

Once they have passed their comprehensive exams and achieved PhD candidacy, students move on to propose, research, and write a dissertation. The completed dissertation should bear evidence of independent research and constitute a substantial contribution on the subject. When the dissertation is complete, the PhD candidate participates in a public oral defense of the dissertation.

Additional Graduation Requirements

In addition to the steps detailed above, students in the PhD program:

• Demonstrate proficiency in a second language.
• Submit a master's thesis for evaluation by a Fletcher faculty member. This could be a master's thesis written prior to enrollment at Fletcher, or a thesis written during the first year at Fletcher.

Length of Time Required to Receive the PhD

Once they have completed their coursework, PhD students generally take about five years to complete the degree, but the exact time varies according to the scope of each candidate's research, the amount of time devoted to PhD studies, and the time needed to research and write the dissertation.

Professional Development Opportunities

Fletcher's Office of Career Services  works with PhD students interested in a career in international relations practice. Our graduates have pursued careers at a wide range of institutions and organizations. For those focused on the academic job market, Fletcher offers support at a variety of levels. Fletcher faculty and the Office of Career Services support job candidates with career advice, professional development, and general assistance.

To develop teaching skills, students can participate in Tufts University’s three-week summer intensive  Graduate Institute for Teaching  and then to co-teach a class with a faculty mentor. Many students have also developed and taught classes in the University’s  Osher Institute  or  Experimental College .

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Ph.D Program

(masters degree is required to apply to the ph.d program).

This is a rigorous, interdisciplinary program intended to prepare its students for careers in research, teaching, and security and international affairs through a broad exploration of social science and historical methodologies as well as topics relating to security issues. Many students will already have a Master of Arts in Security Studies from Kansas State University, but this is not required. Students with other relevant masters degrees may apply to the Ph.D program directly.

Students entering with a masters degree in history, political science, or a closely related field can expect to complete their coursework in 3-4 semesters of full-time study.

Much of the information below, as well as some practical advice, is summarized in a brief guide:

Key Stages in the Ph.D Program

Detailed Information

Ph.D Coursework Foreign Language Requirement Dissertation prospectus defense The Dissertation Ph.D committee Ph.D Exams

Ph.D Coursework

The Ph.D degree will require 90 hours of course work. Up to 30 hours from a previous masters degree may be counted towards these 90 hours. The Ph.D committee will judge the suitability and applicability of the previous credits. An additional 30 hours of those 90 will be research hours towards the dissertation. The remaining coursework to reach the total of 90 hours will include 15 hours of required courses. The required courses consist of:

• The Historical Research Sequence. This sequence consists of two courses of three hours each. The first (HIST 911) will study various approaches to the history of security, international relations, and military affairs. The second will be a methodology course in the theory and concrete practice of historical research in Security Studies (HIST 912). HIST 911 will generally be offered in the fall of odd-numbered years; HIST 912 in the fall of even-numbered years.
• The Political Research Sequence. This sequence also consists of two courses. The first, Research Design and Qualitative Methods (POLSC 900), focuses on the construction of social science research and the various research design issues students must understand to construct qualitative social science studies. The second course, Quantitative Methods (POLSC 901), will introduce students to the statistical tools used by political scientists studying international security issues. POLSC 900 will generally be offered in the fall of even-numbered years, and POLSC 901 in the spring of odd-numbered years.
• The final Ph.D -level required course must be taken after completing the history and political science two-course research sequences. Each student must complete a directed reading (HIST 985 or POLSC 985) with the chair of the student's Ph.D committee. The course is intended to allow the student to hone his or her dissertation topic in one-on-one consultation with the Ph.D chair.

The other fifteen hours of coursework will be elective courses chosen in consultation with the Ph.D committee to prepare the student for research and teaching in security studies, as well as to help prepare for the Ph.D exams. These electives may be drawn from History, Political Science, or other disciplines. Courses outside history and political science, or below 700-level, require prior approval of the student's supervisory committee.

The intent of the Ph.D coursework is to prepare students for writing the dissertation. Upon completion of the Ph.D coursework students will have the research skills necessary to complete a dissertation-length scholarly study on a well-defined topic developed in consultation with their Ph.D Chair.

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Foreign Language Requirement

The foreign language requirement(s) will be set by the student's faculty supervisory committee. Because the nature of the dissertation topic will determine the number of foreign languages in which expertise must be possessed as well as the degree of competency required in those languages, it is not possible to set absolute minimum foreign language requirements for completion of the Ph.D degree. A student’s decision on areas of study should take into account language proficiency likely to be demanded by the supervisory committee.

Dissertation prospectus defense

Following the completion of the Ph.D coursework, the student will submit a written dissertation prospectus to their Ph.D Committee. The Committee will provide written feedback on the prospectus. After the student revises the prospectus, they will present and defend it orally to the Committee for approval.

The Dissertation

Writing the dissertation.

The student will research and write the dissertation, consulting with the Ph.D Committee as often as necessary. The dissertation should be a substantial and original contribution to knowledge and scholarship.

Research hours

By decision of the Security Studies faculty committee in consultation with the Dean of the Graduate School, Ph.D students who are NOT residents of Manhattan must register for Global Campus (GC) research hours.

Dissertation defense

After completing the dissertation, the student will defend it orally before the Ph.D Committee.

Submission of dissertation

Upon successful completion of the oral defense, the student will make any additional revisions to the dissertation required by the Ph.D Committee and submit the final version of the dissertation to the Graduate School at KSU.

Ph.D committee

Within their first two semesters in the program, students will choose a Ph.D Committee consisting of at least four members of the KSU Security Studies faculty, including at least one member from History and at least one member from Political Science. As in any graduate program, adjunct professors are eligible to serve on committees. This committee will work with the student to craft an appropriate and feasible dissertation topic and advise the student on suitable coursework and preparation. Students will report to their committee at regular intervals. The Ph.D Committee may require the student to master specific research skills appropriate for the dissertation, including foreign languages or quantitative methods.

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PhD in International Security and Intelligence

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Global Security, MA

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At a Glance: program details

• Location: online
• Second Language Requirement: No

Program Description

Degree Awarded: MA Global Security

The MA in global security is an interdisciplinary, fully online program designed to aid professional advancement in government, military, nonprofit and private sector careers. Students are trained to critically engage international security issues in a comprehensive manner.

The Master of Arts program in global security is based on four key pillars: enabling innovative strategic thinking, developing analytic tools, supporting critical interdisciplinary engagement, and encouraging flexible and resilient approaches to the inherently complex challenges of current and future global security.

Students may pursue the master's degree from anywhere in the world, study while working full time or part time and may advance at their own pace.

This fully online program is highly flexible and designed for students from various backgrounds and with existing responsibilities. Students may complete their degree from anywhere in the world and proceed at their own pace. MA in Global Security students can:

• Advance their careers in global security, international relations, intelligence, diplomacy, and other related fields. In an age where global security impacts nearly every aspect of our lives, the possibilities are endless.  See what past graduates have done with their MA in Global Security degree .
• Learn from and network with leading professionals in the global security arena. Our highly engaged faculty include top advisors, military strategists, humanitarian leaders, award-winning journalists and renowned scholars.  See who you’ll be learning from .
• Connect with fellow students all over the world, engage in weekly discussions, attend exclusive events with faculty and students, and gain access to our growing alumni networks in Phoenix and Washington, DC.  See what events you’ll have access to as a student or graduate of the program .
• Work closely with the Future Security Initiative (FSI), a collaborative research & policy hub linking ASU and New America, that includes experts and thought leaders in Washington, D.C. Learn more about FSI.

Concentrations

The MA in Global Security also offers a Cybersecurity Concentration option as well as an Irregular Warfare Concentration option. Both are embedded in the MA in Global Security program. 

Degree Requirements

30 credit hours including the required capstone course (GSC 550)

Required Core (3 credit hours) GSC 501 War, Conflict and Security (3)

Electives or Research (24 credit hours)

Culminating Experience (3 credit hours) GSC 550 Capstone (3)

Additional Curriculum Information For electives, students take eight courses from a restricted list for a total of 24 credit hours. Students should contact the academic unit for the approved course list. Other coursework may be used with approval of the academic unit.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in any field, from a regionally accredited institution.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

All applicants must submit:

• graduate admission application and application fee
• official transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• resume or curriculum vitae
• personal statement
• proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.

Applicants must submit at least one letter of recommendation for admission. Applicants may submit additional letters.

The application requires a two- to three-page personal statement.

Expand your horizons with cutting-edge curriculum designed and taught by world-class faculty. Coursework is designed to develop a holistic perspective on complex global problems, to view contemporary issues through a practitioner’s lens, and to send students out with practical skills for careers in global security. Learn more about the curriculum.

Flexible Degree Options

Accelerated program options.

This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and master's degree in as little as five years. It is offered as an accelerated bachelor's and master's degree with:

BS - Political Science -->

Bs - political science.

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BA - Global Studies -->

Ba - global studies, ba - political science -->, ba - political science.

Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. During their junior year, eligible students will be advised by their academic departments to apply.

Next Steps to attend ASU

Learn about our programs, apply to a program, visit our campus, application deadlines, career opportunities.

Graduates possess a grounded and relevant understanding of major global trends and critical analytic skills, improving their capacity to succeed in multiple career paths related to domestic and international security.

Career area examples include:

• conflict zone and post-war reconstruction
• global security intelligence (public and private sector)
• humanitarian and human rights
• policy analysis
• regional affairs
• risk assessment (public and private sector)
• U.S. military advancement

Graduate Certificate

Those interested in the curriculum but who do not need a full master's degree should consider a Graduate Certificate in Global Security and Competitive Statecraft. The certificate program is specifically designed to expand knowledge in strategic statecraft, global security, or military strategy. It is a fully online, 15-credit hour, non-degree program taught by a cadre of senior experts in national security, diplomacy, cybersecurity, and statecraft. Learn more about the Certificate in Global Security and Competitive Statecraft .

Attend Online

ASU offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. Applicants may view the program description and request more information here .

Program Contact Information

If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.

• [email protected]
• 480/965-8563

Top 10 Masters in International Security Studies

If you’re interested in a career in international security, then a master’s degree in international security studies could be a great option for you. This type of degree can provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to work in a variety of roles within the field of international security.

Master of Security Studies and Information Analysis – American University in the Emirates

The Master of Security Studies and Information Analysis is a special multidisciplinary degree that emphasizes experience over theory. It investigates and responds to current and emerging security and intelligence threats, as well as opportunities. Regionally and internationally, prospective students are given with a particular knowledge spectrum in elements of intelligence and data interpretation. Some of the core courses that are consisted in this course are: Intelligence and Security, Issues in Intelligence, Intelligence Analysis, Security Strategic Works, The Origins of Conflicts, Wars and Contemporary Threats to National and International Security, Research Methods and Homeland Security. Undergraduates (B.A. students) are encouraged to enroll to this educational framework that aligns also with UAE Vision 2030 defense resilience strategy.

MSc in International Security and Law – University of Southern Denmark

Over the last few decades, international conflicts and security challenges have shifted dramatically. Understanding and managing them necessitates the acquisition of new capabilities. This Master’s in Odense, Denmark program, taught by academic researchers who have spent time working at some of Europe’s leading universities, aims to assist graduates in developing these talents. The program will equip students with the necessary skills to incorporate a conflict’s political, juridical, and ethical dimensions in a comprehensive assessment that identifies the drivers of conflict and security issues, as well as what entities can do about them, based on the Center for War Studies’ world-class studies. Proficiency in English and any Nordic language might be required.

Master of Arts in Conflict Resolution and Mediterranean Security – University of Malta

The dual master’s program brings together the faculties of two prestigious academic establishments: George Mason University’s Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution, the oldest and biggest graduate conflict studies program in the United States, and the University of Malta’s newly established Centre for the Study and Practice of Conflict Resolution (CSPCR), whose primary concerns include, among other things, dispute settlement procedures, human rights, justice and security. Those who complete this curriculum would be able to determine and evaluate the value commitments that support the work of both conflict researchers and conflict resolution practitioners, as well as recognize and measure the impact of culture and analyze concepts and methodologies. The course which is taking place in Valletta, Malta is 3 semesters long and students will obtain two degrees upon successful completion.

MA in International Security – Oxford Brookes University

This great course located in Headington, Oxford, UK intends to help students in specializing in a key part of world politics by covering both the conventional focus on national defense and more modern debates in a number of circumstances centered on human security. Students are encouraged to consider alternatives and to think about a variety of practices that influence our perceptions of security and insecurity. The combination of research and education is a critical indicator of the quality of the curriculum as a postgraduate program. As a result, the course also gives students a solid foundation in applicable research methodology. The degree can be taken both by full-time and a part-time students.

Master of Arts in Security Policy Studies – The George Washington University – Elliott School of International Affairs

Terrorism, global warming, hostile governments, and pandemics – all of the most serious global security crises require leaders who have the courage, education, and abilities to confront these difficult challenges and contribute to changes. SPS is a policy-oriented master’s degree program that focuses on global security concerns, with a concentration on contemporary security threats and how to respond to them. The curriculum gives students a solid foundation in homeland security, defense planning and international security organizations. Students can concentrate in one of four areas: US national security, transnational protection, conflict management, or technology and science. This master’s program in Washington, DC contains various formats and allows students to study either full-time or part-time.

MA in International Relations: International Security – University of Groningen

This great International Security course taking place in Groningen, Netherlands is great for every individual that has obtained a Bachelor’s degree and is interested in issues such as violence, global warming, societal and economic security, as well as power politics and diplomacy . The Master’s program in International Security also studies theoretical approaches and the aspects of today’s security initiative; it offers an analysis and strategy-based syllabus instructed by a dedicated faculty; contains a career-oriented layout that prepares students for the workforce; and offers great prepping for roles at a wide range of security-related and dispute-management organizations. The language of the Master’s program is in English and students are expected to study this subject for one year (12 months) in order to obtain 60 ECTS.

Master in International Geostrategy and Jihadist Terrorism – INISEG Instituto Internacional de Estudios en Seguridad Global & L’Università Telematica Pegaso

The International Institute of Studies on Global Security of Madrid, Spain , together with the Pegasus University of Italy offer university graduates a great curriculum developed in order to increase their grasp and knowledge in terrorism and international security. This master’s degree in International Geostrategic Studies is meant to offer a broad understanding of defense matters, public safety, defense policy, contemporary defense theory, disputes and international relations, intelligence agencies, jihadism and criminal organizations, military industry, and business. This is a multidisciplinary master’s degree that, apart from similar programs, takes a leadership and control strategy, encompassing notions, processes, and approaches required for the inclusion of safety, tactic, and operations of all types of organizations, with a particular focus on counterterrorism.

Master’s in International Security – George Mason University

The Master of Arts in International Security from George Mason University aims to equip students for the difficulties of current political insecurity. National security procedures should handle foreign concerns as a result of the globalized society. Graduates prepare for a career focused on mitigating exterior dangers to the country by emphasizing international relations and the techniques employed to preserve those relations. The concentration on international security issues and international relations concerns, distinguishes George Mason University from many other curricula. The degree course emphasizes the dangers of advanced technology and tourism, and it aims to mitigate them by teaching students suitable risk management tactics and diplomatic methods. On Mason’s Arlington, Virginia campus, International Security courses are taught in the afternoons, and graduates can enroll on a part-time or full-time basis.

International Security Studies (MA) – The University of Arizona

The International Security Studies program at the University of Arizona assists international students in preparing for jobs in administration, intelligence, world politics research, diplomatic service, as well as other disciplines connected to international relations. The University of Arizona’s International Security Studies credential is made up of four courses totaling 12 units. Conflict in the Middle East, global warming, Russian foreign affairs, American foreign policy, American national defense, international security, geopolitical economy, European security, terrorism and terror organizations, energy security, and Japanese and Chinese nationalism are just a few of the topics covered.

Master International and Security Politics – European School of Political and Social Sciences

The master’s degree in International and Security Politics examines significant international security challenges such as armed conflict, terrorism, environmental issues, and immigration. The complete course offers students a solid grasp of how governmental and non-governmental actors approach and attempt to fix these concerns, along with competence for evaluating contemporary forms of disagreement and hostility, both locally and globally, at the intersection of military strategy, economics, peacebuilding, and international relations. Additionally, upon successful completion of this program, students are presented with a vast number of career opportunities at NGO’s, Think Tanks, trade unions, EU organizations and institutions, OSCE and the public administration.

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TSA PreCheck® program adds eight new airlines

WASHINGTON – The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced today the expansion of its TSA PreCheck program with the addition of Air Premia, Air Tahiti Nui, Air Transat, Bahamasair, BermudAir, Iberia, La Compagnie and New Pacific Airlines.

TSA PreCheck is an expedited screening program enabling low-risk travelers to enjoy a secure and efficient screening experience at more than 200 U.S. state and territory airports, including at the Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau, Bahamas . TSA PreCheck passengers travel with ease and may keep their shoes, belts and light jackets on and are not required to remove laptops, 3-1-1 liquids and food items from their carry-on bags. About 99% of TSA PreCheck passengers wait less than 10 minutes in dedicated lanes at airport checkpoints nationwide.

TSA PreCheck is available for eligible passengers when departing from a U.S. airport or when connecting on domestic flights after returning to the United States from a foreign airport. Travelers who are U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals or U.S. lawful permanent residents may apply for TSA PreCheck and can pick any enrollment provider based on cost, location and additional benefits. Costs for enrollment vary by provider.

Enrolling in TSA PreCheck is easy. Visit tsa.gov/precheck and choose one of the enrollment providers, IDEMIA or Telos , complete the online application in five minutes and schedule your 10-minute in-person appointment with your chosen provider to complete the enrollment.

Once approved, travelers receive a unique Known Traveler Number (KTN) that, when added to an airline reservation, makes them eligible to use TSA PreCheck lanes at security checkpoints nationwide when traveling on any of the participating airlines. Most new enrollees receive a KTN within three to five days.

Teenagers aged 13-17 may now accompany TSA PreCheck enrolled parents or guardians through TSA PreCheck screening when traveling on the same reservation and when the TSA PreCheck indicator appears on the teen’s boarding pass. Children 12 and under may accompany an enrolled parent or guardian in the TSA PreCheck lanes without restriction.

Enrolled airline passengers must have the TSA PreCheck indicator (such as TSAPRECHK, TSA PRE, or TSA Pre✓®) on their boarding pass before approaching a TSA checkpoint to confirm they are eligible for TSA PreCheck screening.

AskTSA is available for travelers needing live assistance from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. EDT via X (formerly known as Twitter) or Facebook by messaging @AskTSA or by sending a text to “275-872” (“AskTSA”). Travelers may also reach the TSA Contact Center at 866-289-9673 from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. EDT on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. EDT on weekends/holidays. An automated service is available 24/7.

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USAID supported Biosafety and Biosecurity Training for Vietnam’s Department of Animal Health laboratories

Fifteen laboratory leaders from seven Regional Animal Health Offices (RAHO), the National Center for Veterinary Diagnosis, and the National Center for Veterinary Hygiene Inspection completed a five-day training program at RAHO-6 in Ho Chi Minh City.  Funded through USAID’s Discovery and Exploration of Emerging Pathogens, Viral Zoonoses grant, the training strengthens the capacity of the animal health laboratories in Vietnam to meet international biosafety and biosecurity standards.

Meeting international biosafety and biosecurity standards in animal health laboratories is crucial to ensuring the safe handling and containment of infectious agents and toxins, preventing accidental or intentional release of pathogens, preventing emerging disease outbreaks, and enhancing global health security.

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