Political Science, Security and Intelligence Studies
The Security and Intelligence Studies Bachelor of Arts program at the University of North Carolina provides students with a thorough understanding of political systems, security policies, and intelligence analysis. The curriculum emphasizes national security, risk assessment, strategic planning, and international relations, preparing learners to analyze and address complex political and security challenges. Students develop analytical skills, critical thinking abilities, research competence, and applied knowledge in security and intelligence, equipping them to pursue careers in government, intelligence agencies, and policy organizations.
Throughout the program, learners participate in coursework, simulations, and applied projects that integrate theory with real world security and intelligence applications. Faculty mentorship guides students in intelligence gathering, threat assessment, and policy evaluation, enabling them to apply classroom knowledge to professional and international contexts. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience, students strengthen research skills, strategic analysis abilities, critical thinking, and applied problem solving, ensuring they are prepared for professional, governmental, and advisory roles in political science and security studies
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Political Science, Security and Intelligence Studies
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 February 2026
- Location: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States
- Field of Study: Political Science
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 Foundations in Political Science
• Introduction to Political Science and Security Studies
• Comparative Politics and International Relations
• Academic Writing and Research
• Fundamentals of Security and Intelligence
Year 2 Core Security and Intelligence Studies
• Intelligence Analysis and Policy Making
• National Security and Risk Assessment
• International Security Studies
• Applied Research Methods
Year 3 Advanced Applications
• Counterterrorism and Strategic Studies
• Security Policy Development
• Intelligence Operations and Case Studies
• Applied Project in Security and Intelligence
Year 4 Integration and Capstone
• Strategic Intelligence Analysis
• Advanced Policy Evaluation
• Capstone Project in Security and Intelligence
• Professional Development and Portfolio
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for professional roles that require expertise in political analysis, security strategy, and intelligence assessment. Many pursue careers as intelligence analysts, policy advisors, security consultants, and government analysts, applying analytical, research, and strategic skills to national and international security challenges. Others work in government agencies, defense organizations, think tanks, or international institutions, conducting intelligence assessments, developing security policies, and managing strategic projects. The program’s emphasis on applied analysis, critical thinking, and strategic competence equips graduates to excel in professional, governmental, and advisory roles.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students who want to combine theoretical knowledge of political science with practical skills in security, intelligence, and policy analysis. Its curriculum emphasizes risk assessment, intelligence gathering, policy development, and applied research, providing learners with the tools to analyze, evaluate, and address complex security challenges effectively. Faculty mentorship supports students in developing analytical expertise, strategic thinking, research competence, and applied problem solving skills. Through simulations, applied projects, and capstone experiences, learners strengthen analytical skills, strategic competence, critical thinking abilities, and applied research expertise, preparing them for impactful careers in intelligence analysis, security consulting, government policy, and international affairs.
Contact Information
Phone: +1 (919) 966-3621
Email: unchelp@admissions.unc.edu
Address: Jackson Hall, 174 Country Club Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
