Security Studies

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.

• M.A.

Accelerated program (Georgetown students only)

• B.S.F.S./M.A.

Joint degree programs

• M.A./Ph.D. (Government)
• M.A./J.D.

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

Application Materials required:

• Application Form
• Non-refundable Application Fee
• Academic Statement of Purpose
• Optional: Statement on Diversity, Personal Background & Contributions
• If your undergraduate degree is from an institution where English was the primary language of instruction, submit either of the following (see SSP Admissions page for more information):
  • Writing Sample
  • GRE score
• Letters of Recommendation (3)
• Transcripts – Applicants are required to upload to the application system copies of official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended. Visit the Office of Graduate Admission’s Application Information page for additional details and FAQs.
• Resume/CV
• TOEFL/IELTS  (if applicable)
  • TOEFL = 100 minimum
  • IELTS = 7.5 minimum

• Spring: October 1
• Fall: January 15

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
• Grand Strategy and 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
• 2 electives of the student’s choice, approved by the program
• Research seminar in the final semester of the program (students graduating in the summer must take the seminar in the spring of their last year)
• Students are also required to pass a four-hour written comprehensive examination given during the student’s final semester in the program.

Program Contact: Robert Pinn: robert.pinn@georgetown.edu

Begin your application today!