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Introduction to the PhD in Intelligence, Defense, and Cybersecurity Policy

The PhD in Intelligence, Defense, and Cybersecurity Policy at Augusta University is a groundbreaking program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to tackle the most pressing challenges in national security. The synchronous online curriculum fosters a deep understanding of intelligence, defense, and cybersecurity policy, preparing students for rewarding careers in government, the military, or the private sector.

Program Overview

• The program is offered by the Pamplin College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences.
• It is a PhD program that focuses on intelligence, defense, and cybersecurity policy.
• The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the complex issues surrounding national security.

Program Structure

• The program consists of 84 hours, including 8 required courses (24 hours), 10 electives (30 hours), integrated research (6 hours), and 8 required dissertation courses, including prospectus and defense hours in addition to typical research hours for dissertation purposes (24 hours).
• Five of the elective courses must be in the chosen focus area, but the other five may be from any area.
• Eligible students may receive up to 30 transfer credit hours if they have obtained a relevant master’s degree before beginning the PhD Program.

Admissions Criteria

• GPA: Overall GPA of 3.25 on a 4.0 scale at the Baccalaureate level calculated on all undergraduate work OR an overall GPA of 3.25 on a 4.0 scale at the graduate level calculated on all graduate work attempted in a related field.
• Degree Requirement: Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited college or university. Students with an eligible Master’s may be able to have 30 hours of the Master’s apply to the PhD coursework, essentially bypassing the first year of core/requirements.
• Transcripts: Official transcripts are required from all universities and colleges ever attended. Unofficial transcripts from US colleges and universities can be used in the admissions review process in lieu of official transcripts for this program.
• Standardized Test Requirements: None are required for this program.
• Letters of Recommendation: Recommendations from three individuals are required. Only recommendations submitted through the online application portal will be accepted.
• Writing Sample: Applicants must submit a response to the prompt, "Why do you think you are a good fit for a PhD in Intelligence, Defense, and Cybersecurity Policy and what are your Career objectives? What will you bring to the program?" Writing sample must be submitted within the application status portal after the application is submitted.

Tuition and Fees

• Estimated total: $5,700 (full-time, in-state, per semester)
• Tuition Per Hour: $475
• Mandatory Fees: $675

Career Options

• Intelligence Analyst: Collect, analyze, and interpret data from various sources, identify trends and patterns, and assess the significance of intelligence findings. Average Salary: $70,000 - $120,000
• Cybersecurity Specialist: Design and implement security measures, monitor networks for vulnerabilities, and respond to cyberattacks. Average Salary: $80,000 - $150,000
• Strategic Planner: Analyze the competitive landscape, identify opportunities and threats, and develop plans to achieve organizational objectives. Average Salary: $90,000 - $170,000

Why Choose Augusta University?

• Relationships with the Georgia Cyber Center, the U.S. Army Cyber Center for Excellence, and other military and civilian enterprises provide excellent networking opportunities.
• Internationally renowned faculty with stellar research portfolios in security studies.
• The PhD is truly innovative, bridging the gap between intelligence studies, national defense, and cybersecurity.