Master of Arts in Security and Intelligence Studies — Online
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.
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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
Check out your career prospects
Beginning your journey with us is a big decision. But it's a smart one. Your field is evolving rapidly. That's why we're constantly innovating our programs to anticipate your industry's needs. So, no matter where your field goes, you can lead the way.
Average Salary, Information Security Analyst
Average Salary, Intelligence Analysts
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
Please note: The following is a sample curriculum and is subject to change. Enrolled students should reference the academic catalog for current program requirements.
Credits 3.00 | ||
Credits 3.00 | ||
Credits 3.00 | ||
Credits 3.00 |
SIA 6140 - Civil Liberties and Security 3.00
SIA 6980 - Capstone 3.00
Concentrations
The remaining required quarter hours for the program may be completed by a combination of completing a concentration and additional electives or selecting any courses listed in the electives list.
- Corporate Security Management
- Homeland Security and Emergency Management
- Strategic Intelligence and Analysis
Electives
Complete courses in the following subjects areas at the 5000 level or above to reach 45 quarter hours: CJS, GST, HLS, LDR, PJM, SIS
Program Credit/GPA Requirements
45 total semester hours required
Minimum 3.000 GPA required
* Please note: this curriculum is for marketing purposes only, and is subject to change.
Concentrations
Credits 3.00 | ||
Credits 3.00 | ||
Credits 3.00 |
SIA 6150 - Corporate Security and Investigations 3.0
SIA 6160 - Information Systems Policy 3.0
Credits 3.00 | ||
Credits 3.00 | ||
Credits 3.00 | ||
Credits 3.00 | ||
Credits 3.00 |
Follow our leaders
"Northeastern University has a long history of preparing individuals for leadership roles in the justice system. We believe this new degree will be the strongest program yet to prepare security professionals to confront and respond to the increasingly complex challenges facing the United States and the world." - Jack McDevitt, PhD, Faculty Director
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
- Online application
- Statement of purpose (500–1000 words): Identify your educational goals and expectations of the program. Please be aware that Northeastern University's academic policy on plagiarism applies to your statement of purpose.
- Professional resumé
- Unofficial undergraduate transcripts; official transcripts required at the time of admission
- The Foreign Credential Evaluation (FCE) is a required assessment of all transcripts and documents from non-U.S. accredited post-secondary education institutions. (Review the FCE requirements by country.)
- Two letters of recommendation from individuals who have either academic or professional knowledge of your capabilities such as a faculty member, colleague, or mentor, preferably one from your current employer
- English language proficiency proof. Students for whom English is not their primary language must submit one of the following:
- Official associate or bachelor's degree transcript from an accredited college or university in the U.S., stating degree conferral and date
- TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, Duolingo, or NU Global Exam scores
Are You an International Student? Find out what additional documents are required to apply.
Admissions Details Learn more about the College of Professional Studies admissions process, policies, and required materials.
Finance Your Education We offer a variety of resources, including scholarships and assistantships.
How to Apply Learn more about the application process and requirements.
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