Institute for World Politics

What you'll study

The curriculum focuses on the development and implementation of national security policy and on elevating analysis to the national strategic level. Core learning objectives include knowledge of national security concepts, instruments of statecraft, regional threat assessment, resource planning and budgeting, and the ethical foundations of Western political tradition as applied to security policy.

• Required courses (with credits):
• 615 Western Moral and Political Thought (2 credits)
• 616 U.S. National Security Strategy and Emerging Threats (4 credits)
• 627 International Relations, Statecraft and Integrated Strategy (4 credits)
• 634 Geography and Strategy (2 credits)
• 637 Public Diplomacy OR 641 Political Warfare: Past, Present and Future (4 credits each)
• 642 Economics for Foreign Policy Makers (2 credits)
• 659 Enemy Threat Doctrine of Global Jihadism OR 603 Russian Politics and Foreign Policy (4 credits each)
• 674 National Security Policy (Directed Study) (2 credits)
• 679 Defense Strategy, Planning and Budgeting (4 credits)

Entry requirements

Admission emphasizes professional experience, leadership and intellectual readiness for strategic-level work. Applicants must have seven to ten years of relevant professional experience. The Admissions Committee evaluates career breadth and depth, management responsibilities, career progression, letters of recommendation, prior academic record and demonstrated understanding of intelligence, national security or international affairs at an integrated strategic level.

Career prospects

The program is designed to help practitioners move from tactical and operational roles to positions requiring strategic analysis and policy formulation. Graduates can expect enhanced capability to assess foreign threats, apply instruments of statecraft in national strategy, engage in strategic resource planning and budgeting, and contribute to the formulation and conduct of national security policy.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Specific scholarship and funding information is not listed in the program text. Prospective students should consult the institution's admissions or financial aid office for available scholarships, employer tuition support options, and other funding avenues for mid-career professionals.