Become an expert in the growing field of national security

Protect the nation from internal and external threats

Become an expert on some of the most important issues in today’s world with the Master of Arts in National Security at Webster University. Learn on your schedule with part-time and full-time options. Take classes online and on-campus and complete your degree within two years.

Graduate with the knowledge and preparation to:

• Identify the major actors, issues, threats, institutions, principles, techniques, laws and terminology in modern national security.
• Assess the ethical, legal and political implications of national security to current issues in the field.
• Apply theories and techniques of national security to current issues in the field.
• Create a research product that synthesizes knowledge and skills in the field.

Align your education with your goals with the ability to choose from three tracks: international and regional security, cybersecurity, or criminal justice.

Learn more about our tracks

Why an MA in National Security Studies?

Become a national security expert

Passionate about protecting America? Ambitious about your career goals? We already know the answers. Graduate as an expert in the issues, skills, theories, laws and techniques necessary to work and advance in the continually changing field of national security.

Broaden your skills in a rapidly growing field

As a graduate student at Webster, you’ll earn a degree, but you’ll also gain a worldview through experiences like an independent research project, optional study abroad trip and our optional, annual Humanitarian & Security Conference.

• Learn the theory and knowledge needed to understand the actors, institutions, contexts, methods and ethics of national security decision making.
• Understand the issues, skills, theories, laws and techniques necessary to work in the rapidly changing field of national security.
• Graduate as a critical and innovative thinker capable of meeting the challenges of the continually evolving landscape of protecting the nation.

Classes that help you grow in an evolving field

You must complete 36 hours to graduate with your MA in National Security Studies.

Explore Your Options

Customize your degree

International and Regional Security

Understand the global reach of national security threats.

Cybersecurity

Focus on the technological aspects of national security. Learn how to detect, prevent and fight cyber-attacks.

Criminal Justice

Connect national security interests to the field of law enforcement.

Pick The Path That’s Right For You

Earn your degree, no matter where you are

Through our hybrid approach, you will complete some of your coursework online, and connect with faculty and peers in person on-campus. Classes for this program are available at the following campuses:

• Jacksonville, Florida
• Jacksonville Naval Air Station, Florida
• Melbourne, Florida
• Online
• Orlando, Florida
• St. Petersburg, Florida
  

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Fulfill your personal and professional goals

Receive support every step of the way

Webster is committed to your success, and you'll never be alone as you pursue your MA in National Security Studies.

• Enrollment coaches help you navigate the application, financial aid and enrollment process so you can start your classes with confidence.
• Faculty members provide personalized support, thanks to Webster's intentionally small classes.
• Tutors and other academic support staff can help you tackle particularly tough assignments and classes.

A nationally recognized, quality education

Earn your MA in National Security Studies from Webster, a private, non-profit university accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Learn from experts

Combine theory and practice as you work alongside faculty members with professional experience in the field. They serve as mentors who are willing and eager to support your career goals.