Program Overview

Defense and Strategic Studies

The MA in Defense and Strategic Studies is concerned with understanding topics such as military power and effectiveness, intelligence, diplomacy, and deterrence. These subjects are continually important for understanding international politics and security in an increasingly complex world. This professionally-oriented program is targeted toward US military officers and the civilian workforce in industries, government agencies, and think tanks related to international relations and national security. The MA in Defense and Strategic Studies program requires 30 credit hours, and is offered entirely online. Extensive transfer credit for military schooling is offered.

Defense and Strategic Studies, Master of Arts

Master's | 100% Online

Admission Criteria

Entrance Term| Application Deadline
---|---
Summer| April 15
Fall| July 15
Spring| November 15

• A BA or equivalent from an accredited institution
• Applicants should have a GPA of at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale). Those with a GPA under 3.0 will need very strong qualities in other areas (such as professional experience) to gain admission.

Minimum Language Requirements

Minimum English language proficiency test scores are required.

Required Application Materials

For the Graduate School

• Completed Graduate School online application
• Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.
• Official Results of English Proficiency Exams (International applicants only)

For the Defense and Strategic Studies Program

• One letter of recommendation
• Statement of purpose
• Resume/CV
• GRE scores (Optional)
• TOEFL or IELTS (for international students)

Defense and Strategic Studies, Accelerated Master of Arts

Master's | 100% Online

Admission Criteria

Entrance Term| Application Deadline
---|---
Summer| April 15
Fall| July 15
Spring| November 15

Current MU undergraduate students are eligible to apply to this program. To be considered for admission to the accelerated MA program in Defense and Strategic Studies, a student must:

• Have completed at least 90 credit hours toward a bachelor’s degree, including all general education requirements
• Have a minimum 3.0 GPA overall

Required Application Materials

For the Graduate School

• Completed Graduate School online application
• Unofficial Transcripts- As part of the application submission process, all applicants are required to upload unofficial copies of all post-secondary transcripts to the online application. Official transcripts are only required if accepted by the academic program.

For the Defense and Strategic Studies Program

• One letter of recommendation
• Statement of purpose
• Resume/CV
• GRE scores (Optional)