Georgia Institute of Technology

What you'll study

The programme blends core international relations concepts with specialised study in national security, technology policy and strategic analysis. Typical modules cover:

• Foundations of International Relations — theory, state behaviour and foreign policy analysis.
• International Security and Strategy — conflict dynamics, deterrence, force projection and alliance politics.
• Intelligence and National Security Policy — intelligence fundamentals, policy-making processes and oversight.
• Technology, Cyber and Security Policy — cybersecurity policy, information operations, dual-use technologies and the security implications of emerging tech.
• Quantitative and Qualitative Methods — research design, statistics, modelling and case-study approaches for policy-relevant research.
• Regional Security Studies — in-depth study of regions such as Europe, the Middle East, Asia-Pacific or Africa and their strategic environments.
• Negotiation, Crisis Management and Conflict Resolution — practical skills for diplomacy and inter-state or intra-state dispute management.
• Capstone Project or Practicum — applied policy research, wargaming, simulation or an internship placement with a government, NGO or private-sector partner.

Programme structure typically combines taught coursework, seminars, and a significant applied research or practicum element. Students draw on Georgia Tech's technological strengths to address the policy implications of cyber, space and other advanced technologies.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a recognised undergraduate degree in a relevant subject such as international relations, political science, economics, public policy, security studies, or a STEM discipline when paired with demonstrated interest in policy. Typical application components include:

• Official academic transcripts showing strong undergraduate performance.
• A personal statement or statement of purpose outlining academic interests and career goals.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
• A current CV or résumé detailing relevant academic, professional or extracurricular experience.
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English.

Relevant professional experience in government, military, NGOs or the private sector is viewed positively but is not always required. Admissions committees look for evidence of analytical ability, clear written communication and a coherent interest in international affairs and security.

Career prospects

Graduates are well placed for careers across public, private and non-profit sectors where international security expertise and policy analysis are valued. Common roles include:

• Policy analyst or advisor in government departments and ministries dealing with foreign affairs, defence, homeland security or cyber policy.
• Intelligence analyst or research specialist in national intelligence agencies or defence organisations.
• Analyst or consultant in think tanks and research institutes focused on international security and technology policy.
• Risk analyst, geopolitical analyst or security consultant in the private sector, including defence contractors, financial firms and multinational corporations.
• Programme officer or specialist in international organisations and non-governmental organisations working on conflict prevention, humanitarian response or security sector reform.
• Further academic study at doctoral level in international relations, security studies or related interdisciplinary fields.

Why study at Georgia Institute of Technology

Georgia Tech brings a distinctive interdisciplinary approach by combining strengths in international affairs with deep expertise in technology and engineering. The Sam Nunn School of International Affairs (and associated centres) offers faculty with expertise in security policy, cyber and emerging technologies, and regional studies. Students benefit from close connections to Atlanta's policy and business communities and access to internships and practicum placements with government agencies, private-sector partners and research centres.

The institute’s emphasis on quantitative methods and applied research equips graduates to analyse complex, technology-driven security challenges and to communicate findings to technical and policy audiences. Small seminar classes, practicum opportunities and a network of alumni working across government, industry and academia provide practical pathways into careers in national security and international affairs.