GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Master of Arts in Security Studies
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
7.5
IELTS
€73k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 30Credit hours required for degree
- 41%Percentage of incoming class awarded scholarships (25/26 AY)
- $513,121Total scholarship amount awarded to incoming students (25/26 AY)
- 38%Percentage of continuing students awarded scholarships (25/26 AY)
- $409,760Total scholarship amount awarded to continuing students (25/26 AY)
The Master of Arts in Security Studies (MA) program at Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service equips students with advanced knowledge and analytical skills to address complex global security challenges. This program is designed for individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of security issues and prepare for leadership roles in government, international organizations, non-profits, and the private sector. Students engage with a rigorous curriculum that covers a broad spectrum of security topics, from traditional military and diplomatic concerns to emerging threats such as cybersecurity, terrorism, and climate change. The program emphasizes critical thinking, research methodologies, and practical application, preparing graduates to contribute effectively to national and international security.
Curriculum
The MA in Security Studies curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of security issues through core coursework and specialized concentrations. The program requires 30 credit hours for graduation.
- Year 1
- Year 2
Careers
Graduates of the MA in Security Studies program are well-prepared for a variety of career paths in national and international security. The program's location in Washington, D.C., provides unparalleled access to key institutions and organizations.
- Government agencies
- Intelligence community
- International organizations
- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
- Think tanks
- Private sector security firms
- Diplomatic corps
Frequently asked questions
- What are the total tuition fees for the MA in Security Studies program?
- For the 2026-2027 academic year, the tuition cost is $2,758.00 per credit hour. With 30 credit hours required for the degree, the total tuition amounts to $82,740.
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
- International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency by achieving a minimum score of 100 on the TOEFL iBT or 7.5 on the IELTS Academic. Alternatively, a degree from an accredited U.S. institution or an institution where English is the primary language of instruction can fulfill this requirement.
- What is the application deadline for the Fall 2027 intake, and when is the scholarship consideration deadline?
- The final deadline for the Fall 2027 intake is January 15, 2027. For scholarship consideration, applications should be submitted by January 15, 2027, and the fee waiver deadline is December 1, 2026.
- What kind of career opportunities can graduates expect from the MA in Security Studies program?
- Graduates are prepared for roles in government agencies, the intelligence community, international organizations, NGOs, think tanks, and private sector security firms. The program's location in Washington, D.C. offers access to key institutions.
- Does the program offer scholarships to international students?
- Yes, merit-based scholarships are available, ranging from three to nine credits. Additionally, there is a DSAN Military Scholarship for US Military personnel, and continuing students can apply for competitive awards. External scholarships like the Leidos Scholarship may also be applicable.
- What are the specific academic entry requirements for the MA in Security Studies?
- Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. While no specific prerequisite courses are mandated, a background in security studies through coursework or professional experience is highly recommended.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeA bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is required. While there are no specific prerequisite courses, a background related to security studies through coursework or professional experience is highly encouraged, especially if your undergraduate major was not directly related to security studies.
TOEFL iBT100
IELTS Academic7.5
Professional experience, international experience, and proficiency in languages other than English are considered assets to the application. The GRE is optional; applicants can submit scores or a supplemental analytical writing sample.
Fees
Tuition (international)The cost per credit hour for the 2026-2027 academic year is $2,758.00. A total of 30 credit hours are required for the degree, resulting in a total tuition of $82,740 for the academic year 2026-2027.
Tuition (home)The cost per credit hour for the 2026-2027 academic year is $2,758.00. A total of 30 credit hours are required for the degree, resulting in a total tuition of $82,740 for the academic year 2026-2027.
LivingNot specified.
Optional and mandatory fees apply. For an up-to-date listing, please visit the Tuition & Fees page. Tuition discounts may be available for current and recent federal workers.
How to apply
1. Complete the Online ApplicationSubmit your application through the official Georgetown graduate application portal.
2. Upload Resume or CVProvide a resume or curriculum vitae (CV) detailing your work experience, academic background, publications, and honors. A one to two-page resume is recommended.
3. Submit Statement of PurposeWrite a statement of purpose (maximum 500 words) outlining your intellectual interests, academic goals, and how the Security Studies Program aligns with your future plans.
4. Provide Academic TranscriptsUpload transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended. For non-U.S. transcripts, credential evaluations (e.g., WES) are strongly encouraged. If transcripts are not in English, provide a certified or notarized translation.
5. Submit Letters of RecommendationRequest three letters of recommendation from individuals who know you well, assessing your qualifications for graduate study in security studies. These should be submitted through the online system.
6. Demonstrate English ProficiencySubmit official TOEFL (minimum 100 iBT) or IELTS (minimum 7.5 Academic) scores, or provide proof of a degree from an accredited U.S. institution or an institution where English is the primary language of instruction.
7. Submit GRE Scores or Writing SampleYou are required to submit either official GRE scores or a supplemental analytical writing sample. Submit scores directly from ETS (code 5244).
Scholarships
Merit-Based ScholarshipsRanges from three to nine credits
DSAN Military ScholarshipOne full-tuition scholarship (including mandatory fees) and one 50% tuition scholarship
Continuing Student Scholarship AwardsEquivalent to the tuition for one, two, or three graduate classes
Leidos Scholarship for AI/ML Advancement$10,000
Frequently asked questions
What are the total tuition fees for the MA in Security Studies program?
+
For the 2026-2027 academic year, the tuition cost is $2,758.00 per credit hour. With 30 credit hours required for the degree, the total tuition amounts to $82,740.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
+
International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency by achieving a minimum score of 100 on the TOEFL iBT or 7.5 on the IELTS Academic. Alternatively, a degree from an accredited U.S. institution or an institution where English is the primary language of instruction can fulfill this requirement.
What is the application deadline for the Fall 2027 intake, and when is the scholarship consideration deadline?
+
The final deadline for the Fall 2027 intake is January 15, 2027. For scholarship consideration, applications should be submitted by January 15, 2027, and the fee waiver deadline is December 1, 2026.
What kind of career opportunities can graduates expect from the MA in Security Studies program?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles in government agencies, the intelligence community, international organizations, NGOs, think tanks, and private sector security firms. The program's location in Washington, D.C. offers access to key institutions.
Does the program offer scholarships to international students?
+
Yes, merit-based scholarships are available, ranging from three to nine credits. Additionally, there is a DSAN Military Scholarship for US Military personnel, and continuing students can apply for competitive awards. External scholarships like the Leidos Scholarship may also be applicable.
What are the specific academic entry requirements for the MA in Security Studies?
+
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. While no specific prerequisite courses are mandated, a background in security studies through coursework or professional experience is highly recommended.