NTSC - National Security

Course Descriptions

NTSC 5000 Introduction to National Security Studies (3)

This course introduces students to the primary actors and institutions involved in national security as well as the ideas, concepts, theories and practices in the field of national security and policymaking. Additionally, students will learn to analyze and differentiate threats, both perceived and real to national security.

NTSC 5100 Research Methods in National Security Studies (3)

Students are introduced to skills, methodological issues and bibliographic resources which enhance their ability to evaluate critically and to conduct research in the field of national security studies.

NTSC 5200 National Security Policy Development (3)

This course facilitates students' learning about the process of national security policy development through the analysis of theory, case studies and practical application of policy-relevant skills. 

NTSC 5300 National Security Decision-Making (3)

This course addresses the different dimensions of national security decision-making in the United States. The course examines key institutions and entities, as well as traditional and non-traditional security domains. 

NTSC 5860 Issues in National Security Studies (3)

This course examines issues related to national security studies in specialized depth. Course may be repeated if issue and content differ. 

NTSC 6000 Capstone in National Security Studies (3)

Students will develop a mini-thesis capstone project that can be used to inform a national security policy decision. Using the research methods, knowledge and skills from the entire program, students will produce a research product informed by scholarship and practice in the field that accurately assesses a national security issue and recommends a logical course of action. Prerequisites: NTSC 5000, NTSC 5100 and completion of 30 credit hours.

NTSC 6250 Thesis in National Security Studies (3)

The student completes a thesis project under the supervision of two faculty members. The thesis option is recommended for those considering graduate study at the doctoral level. All theses must follow university guidelines and be deposited in the Webster University library. Proposal forms are available from the departmental website. Students must secure approval of their proposal from the academic director or coordinator of the program at the site where the thesis is to be done. General policy expects proposal to be submitted before the 24th credit hour is completed. Prerequisites: NTSC 5000, NTSC 5100 and completion of 30 credit hours.

NTSC 6500 Internship

NTSC 6500 Internship is designed to enhance the National Security Studies curriculum. Students play an instrumental role in creating an experience that blends coursework knowledge with practical knowledge by working with a host organization under the supervision of a qualified professional. Thus, all work performed for the purpose of satisfying the requirements of the internship program must in some way relate to the field of National Security. Prerequisites: Completion of all required courses for the MA in National Security Studies except NTSC 6000 Capstone in National Security Studies or NTSC 6250 Thesis in National Security Studies. Exceptions may apply at the discretion of the department chair, upon written request, before registering for INTL 6500 Internship. NTSC 6500 Internship cannot be substituted for NTSC 6000 Capstone in National Security Studies or NTSC 6250 Thesis in National Security Studies.