The National Security Policy S. Master program at University of Duke offers a one-year part-time, blended curriculum designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills required to analyze and address contemporary security challenges. The program emphasizes policy evaluation, strategic decision-making, intelligence analysis and risk assessment. Students gain a solid foundation in national security strategy, counterterrorism, international relations and crisis management. Its blended delivery ensures flexibility while maintaining rigorous academic engagement, allowing learners to balance professional commitments with advanced study.
Participants benefit from access to faculty mentorship, interactive online modules and applied research projects. The curriculum emphasizes security policy, strategic analysis, risk assessment and intelligence evaluation, enabling students to critically assess threats and develop effective policy solutions. Through case studies, simulations and collaborative exercises, learners strengthen analytical, decision-making and leadership skills, preparing them for impactful roles in government, defense, international organizations or security consulting.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: National Security Policy
- Degree Type: S. Master
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Part-time, Blended
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: Duke University, United States
- Field of Study: Terrorism & Security
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in National Security Policy
• Introduction to National Security and Policy
• Counterterrorism and Threat Analysis
• International Relations and Security Strategy
• Applied Research Methods in Security Studies
Semester 2 – Advanced Policy & Strategic Applications
• Crisis Management and Conflict Resolution
• Intelligence Analysis and Policy Evaluation
• Elective in Specialized Security Topic
• Capstone Project / Applied Study
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for professional roles in government, defense, international organizations and security consulting. Common career paths include policy analyst, intelligence officer, security consultant and risk assessment specialist. Additional opportunities exist in think tanks, research institutes, non-profits and private security firms. The program also provides a foundation for students pursuing advanced studies in security, defense policy or international relations. By combining rigorous policy analysis with applied research, graduates are equipped to develop strategic solutions and influence national and international security initiatives.
Why Choose This Program
This one-year part-time, blended master’s program is ideal for students seeking a flexible and applied approach to national security policy. The curriculum emphasizes strategic analysis, security policy, risk assessment and applied research, enabling learners to address real-world security challenges. Students engage in case studies, simulations and faculty-guided projects that strengthen analytical, decision-making and leadership abilities. The program’s blended structure allows students to combine professional experience with academic learning, preparing graduates for influential roles in national security, defense, intelligence or policy analysis. For those aiming to impact global and domestic security strategies, this program provides a practical and highly focused pathway.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 (919) 684-8111
Email: admissions@duke.edu
Address: University of Duke, Durham, North Carolina, United States
