Master of Arts in Security and Intelligence Studies — Arlington
The Master of Arts in Security and Intelligence Studies program prepares you to take a leadership role in the security field. You’ll be ready to anticipate and lead responses to security threats in an ever-changing, challenging global environment.
Take a Quick Look
We’re committed to creating an education as unique as your career path. So, whether your goal is a new career or moving up in your field, our innovative programs will get you going your way.
Overview
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.
Northeastern's signature experience-powered learning model has been at the heart of the university for more than a century. It combines world-class academics with professional practice, allowing you to acquire relevant, real-world skills you can immediately put into action in your current workplace.
This makes a Northeastern education a dynamic, transformative experience, giving you countless opportunities to grow as a professional and person.
Get Set With a Custom Course Plan
Follow Our Leaders
Cost and Tuition
Tuition
Estimated Total Tuition
This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2024-2025 and does not include any fees or other expenses. Some courses and labs have tuition rates that may increase or decrease total tuition. Tuition and fees are subject to revision by the president and Board of Trustees at any time. Select programs at select campuses offer additional scholarships of up to 25% off the listed price for domestic students studying on campus. For more detailed information, please visit Student Financial Services.
For students interested in pursuing financial assistance or educational loans, additional educational costs, known as Cost of Attendance (COA) components, can be included in the calculation of aid and loan eligibility. Components may include food, housing, books, course materials, supplies, equipment, transportation, personal expenses, and the cost of obtaining a first professional licensure. You can find comprehensive details on the Student Financial Services website. Please keep in mind that COA can vary significantly depending on academic program, enrollment intensity, and individual circumstances.
Application Deadlines
Our admissions process operates on a rolling basis; however, we do recommend the application guidelines below to ensure you can begin during your desired start term:
Domestic Application Guidelines
International Application Guidelines*
*International deadlines are only applicable if the program is F1 compliant.
Related Programs
Admissions
Let’s Find Your Path Forward
Our enrollment representatives can walk you through the application process and help you explore your program options.
Call Toll Free: 877.668.7727
