The world is witnessing an ever-increasing rise in conflicts and challenges that transcend national borders and international arenas. This underscores the necessity to cultivate adept leaders capable of formulating comprehensive policies and strategies to effectively address and mitigate these escalating threats.  

Northeastern’s Master of Arts in Security & Intelligence Studies program is designed to provide students with a world-class curriculum tailored to meet the demands of the dynamic national security landscape. Throughout this degree program, you will be equipped with the essential knowledge and skills necessary to excel in your career – from mastering the intricacies of open-source intelligence collection and dissemination to honing expertise in intelligence analysis, research methodologies, threat assessment, and policy development. 

What sets our program apart is its unique interdisciplinary approach, seamlessly integrating key disciplines such as security, diplomacy, law, politics, and constitutional rights and policies. By fostering a comprehensive understanding of these diverse areas, we cultivate well-rounded individuals who are not only adept at critical strategic thinking but also possess a nuanced appreciation of the complexities inherent in national security – including the paramount importance of safeguarding civil liberties while pursuing security within the framework of a democratic society. 

Learn from a faculty comprised of national security experts each with over 20 years of teaching and real-world experience. Drawing from diverse backgrounds as constitutional lawyers, White House advisors, FBI Special Agents, CIA operatives, military intelligence officers, and more, our faculty members offer invaluable insights into the intricacies of intelligence collection and analysis within the context of a democratic society. From our seasoned professionals, you will gain a firsthand understanding of the critical role intelligence plays in upholding democratic principles while ensuring national security. 

Program objectives 

• Empower students with a comprehensive understanding of national security by offering a whole-of-government approach, anchored in a curriculum featuring core foundational courses. 

• Nurture a cohort of national security experts adept at critical analysis through a distinctive multidisciplinary approach. This methodology blends analytical prowess and leadership skills while instilling a deep appreciation for civil liberties within democratic frameworks. 

• Prepare the next generation of national security leaders to thrive amidst uncertainty by developing their capacity to anticipate and effectively lead responses to evolving threats within the intricate global environment, fostering resilience and adaptability. 

Unique Features 

• Learn from faculty experts who bring their real-world experience as constitutional lawyers, White House advisors, FBI Special Agents, CIA operatives, military intelligence officers, and more to the classroom. 
• Tailor your degree with several concentration tracks – to further focus your studies and increase your value as a security professional