M.A. in National Security Studies

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 70

1. Academic Qualifications:

   • For Postgraduate Programs: A bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution.
   • A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (equivalent to 65% and above).
      

2. English Language Proficiency:

   • Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) iBT: An overall score of 79 or higher.
   • International English Language Testing System (IELTS): An overall score of 6.0 or higher with no band score less than 5.5.
   • Duolingo English Test (DET): A score of 105 or higher.
   • Pearson Test of English (PTE): A score of 53 or higher.
      

3. Standardized Tests:

   • Graduate Record Examination (GRE): A minimum GRE score of 298 is required.

Scholarships for International Students at CSUSB

1. CSUSB Merit-Based Scholarships: These scholarships are available to both undergraduate and graduate international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements. Merit-based scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence, and they can significantly reduce tuition costs.

2. CSUSB International Student Scholarship: This scholarship is designed exclusively for international students pursuing undergraduate or graduate programs at CSUSB. Eligibility criteria typically include academic performance and potential contributions to the campus community.

3. CSUSB Athletic Scholarships: International students who excel in sports may have the opportunity to receive athletic scholarships. These scholarships are usually awarded to student-athletes who participate in CSUSB's NCAA Division II athletic programs.

4. Departmental Scholarships: Many academic departments within CSUSB offer scholarships to students majoring in specific fields. International students should inquire with their respective departments about scholarship opportunities related to their chosen majors.

5. External Scholarships: International students are encouraged to explore scholarships offered by external organizations, governments, and foundations in their home countries. These scholarships may be available for studying in the United States and can provide additional financial support.

6. Graduate Assistantships: Graduate students at CSUSB may be eligible for graduate assistantships, which offer tuition waivers and stipends in exchange for research or teaching assistance. These opportunities are typically available for master's and doctoral students.

7. Fulbright Program: CSUSB may participate in the Fulbright Program, which provides scholarships for international students to pursue graduate studies in the United States. Interested students should check the availability of Fulbright opportunities at CSUSB.

8. Cultural and Exchange Scholarships: Some scholarships are specifically designed to promote cultural exchange between the United States and other countries. International students should explore options provided by cultural exchange programs.

9. Foundation Scholarships: CSUSB has various foundation scholarships that international students can apply for. These scholarships are often based on a combination of academic achievement, financial need, and community involvement.

10. Private Scholarships: International students can research and apply for private scholarships from organizations, corporations, and foundations that support education. Websites like the International Scholarships website can help identify potential sources of funding.

It's essential for international students to review scholarship opportunities early in the application process, as application deadlines and eligibility criteria may vary.

Graduates of CSUSB's M.A. in National Security Studies program have a multitude of diverse and promising career opportunities in the field of national security, both in the public and private sectors. Whether aspiring to work in intelligence, diplomacy, cybersecurity, or policy analysis, graduates of this program are poised for success and leadership in the realm of national security.

1. Intelligence Analyst: Graduates can work as intelligence analysts, assessing and interpreting intelligence data to inform national security decisions and strategies. They may work for government agencies, such as the CIA, FBI, or NSA.

2. Diplomat/Foreign Service Officer: Those interested in international relations can pursue careers as diplomats or foreign service officers, representing the interests of their country abroad and contributing to diplomatic efforts.

3. Policy Analyst: Graduates can work as policy analysts, researching and developing national security policies for government agencies, think tanks, or research institutions.

4. Cybersecurity Specialist: With the increasing importance of cybersecurity, graduates can specialize in this field, working to protect critical infrastructure, government systems, and private sector networks from cyber threats.

5. Counterterrorism Analyst: Graduates can focus on counterterrorism efforts, working to identify and combat terrorist threats both domestically and internationally.

6. Homeland Security Officer: Graduates can assume roles in homeland security, focusing on the protection of the nation's borders, infrastructure, and critical assets.

7. Risk Analyst: Those with a strong analytical background can work as risk analysts, assessing potential security risks and vulnerabilities and recommending mitigation strategies.

8. International Relations Specialist: Graduates can work as international relations specialists, contributing to diplomatic relations, negotiations, and conflict resolution efforts.

9. Emergency Management Director: Graduates can become emergency management directors, overseeing disaster response and preparedness efforts at the local, state, or federal level.

10. Security Consultant: Some graduates may choose to work as security consultants, providing expertise to government agencies or private companies on security measures and strategies.

11. Academic or Researcher: Graduates interested in academia can pursue careers as professors or researchers in national security studies, contributing to the academic community's understanding of the field.

12. Private Sector Opportunities: Graduates may find opportunities in the private sector, particularly in defense contracting, cybersecurity firms, risk assessment companies, or consulting firms specializing in national security issues.