Program Overview
The Security Studies Certificate of Advanced Study (CAS) at Syracuse University equips students with knowledge and skills for careers in national security, homeland security, cybersecurity, and counterterrorism. The program draws on expertise from multiple disciplines, offering a comprehensive understanding of security issues. Students complete 12 graduate-level credits, including required courses in national security law and policy, international security, and counterterrorism, and can choose from a range of electives. Graduates are prepared for careers in government agencies, private sector companies, and other organizations addressing security challenges.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Security Studies Certificate of Advanced Study (CAS) program at Syracuse University equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary for careers in national security, homeland security, cybersecurity, and counterterrorism. The program draws on the expertise of faculty from a range of disciplines, including public administration, international relations, political science, law, history, and communications.
Objectives:
The CAS in Security Studies aims to provide students with the following:
- A deep understanding of the central themes surrounding globalization, global security, foreign policy, and models of conflict, with a particular focus on the role of nation-states and international organizations in the modern global system.
- The ability to identify and evaluate traditional and non-traditional security threats.
- The ability to think critically and creatively about complex problems in order to develop innovative solutions.
- The ability to apply knowledge of security threats and central themes in specific topic areas, such as international cybersecurity, security strategies in the Middle East, nuclear weapons, political risk assessment, and press relations.
- The ability to communicate acquired knowledge and skills effectively to a range of professional audiences, both in written and oral form.
Outline:
Program Structure:
The CAS in Security Studies requires students to complete 12 graduate-level credits (four courses). Students can complete the program concurrently with their graduate or law degree programs at Syracuse University. Enrollment in a master's or doctoral program at Syracuse University is required.
Course Schedule:
The CAS in Security Studies offers a variety of courses, including:
- Required Courses:
- Central Challenges in National Security Law and Policy
- Comparative Civil-Military Relations
- International Security
- National Security and Counterterrorism Research Center
- National Security Law
- US Defense Strategy
- US Intelligence Community: Governance and Practice
- US National Security Policy
- Elective Courses:
- A wide range of electives are available, covering topics such as international cybersecurity, security strategies in the Middle East, nuclear weapons, political risk assessment, and press relations.
Assessment:
The assessment methods used in the CAS in Security Studies program may vary depending on the specific courses taken. However, students can expect to be assessed through a combination of written assignments, oral presentations, and examinations.
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
The CAS in Security Studies program uses a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, simulations, and case studies.
Faculty:
The program's faculty are experts in their respective fields and have extensive experience in teaching and research.
Unique Approaches:
The CAS in Security Studies program offers a unique opportunity for students to collaborate with students and faculty from a range of disciplines. This interdisciplinary approach allows students to gain a comprehensive understanding of security issues from multiple perspectives.
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
The CAS in Security Studies prepares students for a variety of careers in the public and private sectors, including:
- National security analyst
- Homeland security specialist
- Cybersecurity analyst
- Counterterrorism specialist
- Intelligence analyst
- Foreign policy advisor
- Military officer
- Law enforcement officer
Opportunities and Outcomes:
Graduates of the CAS in Security Studies program have gone on to successful careers in a variety of fields. Many graduates have found employment with government agencies, such as the Department of Defense, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Central Intelligence Agency. Others have found employment with private sector companies, such as defense contractors, cybersecurity firms, and law firms.