This online degree is designed for professionals with seven to ten years of relevant work experience in the national security community. It provides a comprehensive study of the theory and practice of national security policy, process, and implementation, both in historical and contemporary perspectives. Significant attention is directed toward vital current policy issues as well as understanding foreign cultures and the practices of foreign powers.
Students in this program may be enrolled full-time (9 or more credit hours per semester) or part-time (less than 9 credit hours per semester), but must complete the degree in five calendar years or less. After successful completion of all coursework, each student will be required to pass a one-hour oral examination and a three-hour written comprehensive examination.
All courses listed below will be conducted entirely online using asynchronous, previously-produced material (such as recorded lectures or interviews).
Program Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate knowledge of basic terms, concepts, history, theories, and geography related to national security policy, implementation, and process, including resource planning and budgeting. (ILO 1)
- Understand how the various instruments of statecraft, with special consideration of geopolitical and economic factors, apply to U.S. national strategy. (No applicable ILO)
- Make an informed assessment of foreign threats facing the United States with emphasis on a particular region or area of study. (No applicable ILO)
- Appreciate the principles of Western moral tradition as applied to national security and foreign policy. (ILO 4)
Required Courses
- IWPO 606 Ideas and Values in International Politics (2 credits)
- IWPO 608 Sources of American Political Thought (2 credits)
- IWPO 615 Western Moral and Political Thought (2 credits)
- IWPO 620 Contemporary Politics and Diplomacy (4 credits)
- IWPO 627 International Relations, Statecraft, and Integrated Strategy (4 credits)
- IWPO 634 Geography and Strategy (2 credits)
- IWPO 642 Economics for Foreign Policy Makers (2 credits)
- IWPO 799 Capstone Course (2 credits) (Capstone must be taken in the final year of study.)
- Eight credits of Electives
Admissions Criteria
The Admissions Committee evaluates each application for this degree with a focus on professional experience and leadership, ultimately assessing how your professional experiences have given you an extensive understanding of one of the elements of statecraft. This includes your individual and unique qualifications in the following:
Professional Background
The breadth and depth of your professional experience, your level of management responsibilities (e.g., strategy, operations, etc.), career progression and demonstrated leadership. The Executive MA applicant must have 7-10 years of relevant experience.
Integrated Intellectual Capabilities
Your potential to succeed academically as demonstrated through your academic record, letters of recommendation, professional experience, and understanding of intelligence, national security or international affairs at an integrated, strategic level.
The Admissions Committee seeks candidates who are considered high-potential leaders who have the desire to enhance the formulation and conduct of American national security policy.
The Institute of World Politics has been approved to participate in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements.
