Program Overview

PhD in Security and Global Studies

The PhD in Security and Global Studies (PhDSGS) at the American University in the Emirates (AUE) is a pioneering academic and professional milestone designed to shape the next generation of thought leaders, policy influencers, and security experts. Positioned in the heart of Dubai, a global nexus for diplomacy, innovation, and international engagement, the PhDSGS offers an intellectually rigorous and practically relevant terminal degree, combining interdisciplinary research, policy application, and strategic foresight.

Program Purpose

The PhDSGS is a transformational journey into security studies, addressing the multidimensional nature of security in today's world. The program explores traditional defense and military strategy while also emphasizing non-traditional threats such as cybersecurity and digital warfare, energy and resource insecurity, food and water scarcity, climate-induced displacement, transnational terrorism, and organized crime.

Career Opportunities

The PhDSGS program is ideal for candidates seeking to build careers in government ministries, multilateral organizations, regional security alliances, international think tanks and policy institutes, humanitarian and development agencies, academia, and higher education institutions. Graduates of the program become expert researchers, strategic advisors, and visionary leaders, equipped to handle challenges ranging from homeland security and geopolitical instability to AI-driven warfare and climate-induced migration.

Why AUE?

Our faculty includes renowned researchers, former diplomats, intelligence experts, and practitioners from leading security institutions. They bring to the classroom real-world experience from NATO, the UN, foreign ministries, and defense sectors, ensuring your education remains grounded in practical realities. AUE offers a strategic location in Dubai's International Academic City, research infrastructure, an interdisciplinary approach, tailored support, and a diverse student body.

Admission Requirements

Applicants to the Doctoral program must satisfy the following requirements:

• Hold a Master's degree in a relevant discipline from an accredited higher education institution, with a minimum cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, or its equivalent.
• Demonstrate proficiency in English by submitting a valid test score meeting one of the following minimum requirements:
  • IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5
  • TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 91
• Submit a research proposal of 1,5002,000 words clearly outlining the proposed research topic, objectives, preliminary literature context, and intended methodology.
• Provide two letters of recommendation from academic and/or professional referees who can attest to the applicant's academic ability and research potential.
• Successfully complete an admissions interview conducted by the Doctoral Admissions Committee.

Accreditation

The PhDSGS program is accredited by the Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA), UAE's national regulatory body. This accreditation ensures that your PhD from AUE is recognized globally, whether you pursue a career in academia, international organizations, or high-level policy environments.

Program Structure

The program consists of:

• Core Courses: 9 courses, 27 credit hours
• Elective Courses: 2 courses, 6 credit hours
• Comprehensive Exam: 0 credit hours
• Research Seminar: 3 credit hours
• Dissertation: 27 credit hours Total: 63 credit hours

Core Courses

1. Theories of International Relations and Security (3)
2. Geopolitics of the Middle East (3)
3. Global Security Trends and Challenges (3)
4. Ethics and Governance in Leadership and Security (3)
5. Leadership Roles in Human Security and Development in the Middle East (3)
6. Leadership Roles in Peace and Conflict Resolution (3)
7. Terrorism and Counterterrorism Strategies (3)
8. Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies in Security and Leadership (3)
9. Research Methodology (3)

Elective Courses

1. Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Peacebuilding (3)
2. Energy Security and Sustainability (3)
3. Cybersecurity and Digital Information Warfare (3)
4. Conflict Resolution and Mediation (3)
5. Food Security and Sustainability in the Middle East (3)

Fee Structure

• Duration: 4 years
• Yearly Tuition Fees: AED 78,750/USD 21,443 (VAT 5% inclusive, excluding service fees)
• Scholarships: up to 50%

Program Director

Professor Dusko Tomic, Program Director of the Ph.D. in Security and Global Studies.