M.A. in Security Studies

Lowell, Massachusetts

 

INTAKE: Fall, Spring

Program Overview

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Security Studies program at the University of Massachusetts Lowell (UMass Lowell) is a comprehensive and multidisciplinary graduate program that addresses the complex challenges of national and international security. Through a rigorous curriculum, specialized coursework, and research opportunities, students gain in-depth knowledge of security issues, policy analysis, and strategies to protect societies and nations from various threats.As security threats continue to evolve, graduates of this program play a crucial role in safeguarding societies and promoting global stability and peace.

Curriculum:

  1. Interdisciplinary Curriculum: The M.A. in Security Studies program adopts an interdisciplinary approach, integrating perspectives from political science, international relations, history, law, and criminology. This comprehensive curriculum allows students to explore security challenges from multiple angles.

  2. Critical Security Issues: The program covers critical security issues, such as terrorism, cybersecurity, transnational crime, conflict resolution, intelligence analysis, and homeland security.

  3. Policy Analysis: Students learn policy analysis techniques to evaluate security policies and strategies at the national and international levels, preparing them to engage in security decision-making processes.

  4. International and Comparative Security: The curriculum explores security challenges in different regions of the world, providing students with a global understanding of security dynamics and responses.

  5. Homeland Security and Emergency Management: The program examines homeland security and emergency management, equipping students with the knowledge and skills to respond to and mitigate threats to domestic security.

  6. Cybersecurity: Students delve into the realm of cybersecurity, understanding the complexities of cyber threats and strategies for safeguarding critical infrastructure and information systems.

  7. Intelligence Analysis: The curriculum includes intelligence analysis courses, training students to assess and interpret intelligence information for security purposes.

  8. Research Opportunities: UMass Lowell provides research opportunities, enabling students to conduct original research on security-related topics and contribute to the field's advancement.

  9. Practical Exercises: The program may include practical exercises, simulations, and case studies that allow students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world security scenarios.

  10. Faculty Expertise: The faculty in the Security Studies program are experienced scholars and practitioners with expertise in various security-related fields, enriching students' learning experiences.

  11. Collaboration with Security Agencies: UMass Lowell may collaborate with security agencies, providing students with exposure to practical security challenges and potential internship opportunities.

  12. Career Development: The program offers career development resources, including workshops, networking events, and job placement assistance, supporting students in pursuing careers in security-related fields.

The M.A. in Security Studies program at the University of Massachusetts Lowell equips students with a comprehensive understanding of security challenges and strategies at both national and international levels. Through an interdisciplinary curriculum, research opportunities, and practical exercises, graduates are prepared to analyze security issues critically and contribute to effective security policies and responses. The program's focus on cybersecurity, intelligence analysis, homeland security, and international security ensures that graduates are well-equipped to tackle a wide range of security challenges in diverse sectors, including government, law enforcement, intelligence, private industry, and non-governmental organizations.

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Location

Lowell, Massachusetts

Pollster Education

Score

IELTS: 6.5

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Tuition Fee

USD 30551

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees: US$ 50

1. Academic Requirements:

  • International students applying for postgraduate programs at UMass Lowell are required to have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or its equivalent. This typically translates to a percentage of 70% and above in their previous academic studies.

2. English Language Proficiency:

  • For non-native English speakers, UMass Lowell requires proof of English language proficiency through standardized tests like IELTS or TOEFL. The minimum required scores are as follows:
    • IELTS: An overall score of 6.5 with no individual band score below 6.
    • TOEFL iBT: An overall score of 79.
    • DET: An overall score of 105.

3. GRE/GMAT Scores:

  • . GRE score around 300 is required.

UMass Lowell recognizes the importance of attracting and supporting talented international students, and as such, offers various scholarships and financial aid opportunities to help offset the cost of education. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, leadership qualities, and other criteria to deserving international students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate programs at the university.

1. Chancellor's Scholarship: The Chancellor's Scholarship is a prestigious merit-based scholarship offered to exceptional international students with outstanding academic records and leadership potential. Recipients of this scholarship receive substantial financial support to cover a significant portion of their tuition expenses.

2. Dean's Scholarship: The Dean's Scholarship is awarded to high-achieving international students based on their academic achievements and contributions to their communities. This scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate exceptional potential in their chosen field of study.

3. International Student Merit Scholarship: The International Student Merit Scholarship is designed to support academically talented international students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate programs at UMass Lowell. The scholarship amount varies and is based on the student's academic performance and overall profile.

4. Global Excellence Scholarship: The Global Excellence Scholarship is awarded to international students who have demonstrated academic excellence and have a strong commitment to contributing positively to the UMass Lowell community. This scholarship recognizes students who embody the values of global citizenship and leadership.

5. UMass Lowell Merit Scholarships: Apart from specific scholarships for international students, UMass Lowell also offers a range of merit scholarships that international students may be eligible for. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and other criteria.

6. Donor-Funded Scholarships: UMass Lowell has various donor-funded scholarships that provide financial assistance to international students from specific countries or regions. These scholarships may be awarded based on the country of origin, academic achievements, or other specific criteria defined by the donors.

Application and Eligibility: International students are automatically considered for scholarships upon applying for admission to UMass Lowell. Scholarships are awarded based on the students' academic records, achievements, and potential contributions to the university community. It is essential for international students to review the specific scholarship criteria and deadlines to ensure they meet the eligibility requirements.

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Security Studies program at the University of Massachusetts Lowell (UMass Lowell) prepares graduates for diverse and rewarding career opportunities in the field of security. Through a comprehensive curriculum, specialized training, and research experiences, students develop the knowledge and skills required to address complex security challenges at both national and international levels.

  1. Security Analyst: Graduates can work as security analysts, conducting in-depth assessments of security threats, risks, and vulnerabilities for organizations and government agencies.

  2. Intelligence Specialist: With expertise in intelligence analysis, graduates can pursue careers as intelligence specialists, supporting decision-making processes with timely and relevant information.

  3. Counterterrorism Specialist: Graduates can work as counterterrorism specialists, developing strategies to prevent and respond to terrorism threats.

  4. Homeland Security Officer: With knowledge of homeland security and emergency management, graduates can work as homeland security officers, ensuring the protection of critical infrastructure and responding to emergencies.

  5. Cybersecurity Analyst: Graduates may become cybersecurity analysts, focusing on safeguarding information systems and networks from cyber threats.

  6. Policy Advisor: Graduates can work as policy advisors, providing insights and recommendations to policymakers on security-related matters.

  7. International Relations Specialist: With a global understanding of security dynamics, graduates can pursue careers in international relations, working on security-related issues at diplomatic missions and international organizations.

  8. Security Consultant: Graduates can become security consultants, advising businesses and organizations on security risk management and mitigation strategies.

  9. Law Enforcement Specialist: With knowledge of security and law enforcement, graduates can work as law enforcement specialists, contributing to public safety and crime prevention efforts.

  10. Emergency Preparedness Coordinator: Graduates may work as emergency preparedness coordinators, developing and implementing plans to respond to various emergencies and disasters.

  11. Risk Analyst: Graduates can work as risk analysts, identifying and evaluating security risks for businesses and organizations.

  12. Nonprofit Sector: Graduates can pursue careers in the nonprofit sector, working with organizations focused on conflict resolution, peacebuilding, and humanitarian efforts.

  13. Government Security Analyst: Graduates can work for government agencies in various capacities, such as defense, homeland security, and intelligence.

The M.A. in Security Studies program at the University of Massachusetts Lowell offers graduates a wide range of career opportunities in the security field. With expertise in intelligence analysis, counterterrorism, cybersecurity, and homeland security, graduates are equipped to contribute to national and international security efforts. Whether working for government agencies, private organizations, non-profits, or international entities, graduates play vital roles in safeguarding societies, protecting critical infrastructure, and addressing security challenges. The program's emphasis on research, practical training, and policy analysis ensures that graduates are well-prepared to navigate complex security issues and make meaningful contributions to the field of security studies.


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