Northeastern University United States

Security and Intelligence Studies, MA

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1.5 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The MA in Security and Intelligence Studies at Northeastern University provides a comprehensive understanding of national security, homeland security, and intelligence operations, preparing you for critical roles in a complex global landscape. This postgraduate program is designed for individuals keen to explore the intersection of law, policy, diplomacy, and civil liberties within security frameworks. You will develop essential skills in intelligence analysis, threat assessment, and policy evaluation, gaining insights into contemporary challenges and the ethical considerations vital for effective security leadership.

This full-time, on-campus MA program is delivered over 18 months, immersing you in a curriculum that includes core courses on national security law, homeland security, and intelligence community collaboration, alongside specialized concentrations. You will engage with expert faculty, many with extensive real-world experience in fields such as intelligence, law enforcement, and national security policy. Through a capstone project, you will apply your learning to a significant security challenge, graduating with the analytical and strategic capabilities needed for careers in government agencies, international organisations, and private sector security firms.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Master of Arts in Security and Intelligence Studies program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with advanced knowledge in national security, homeland security, and intelligence analysis. The program delves into critical areas such as contemporary threats, intelligence community operations, civil liberties, and the legal and policy frameworks governing national security. Students will explore specialized tracks in Corporate Security Management, Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and Strategic Intelligence and Analysis, culminating in a capstone project.

1 Required Courses

National Security—Law and Policy Compulsory
Introduction to Homeland Security Compulsory
Contemporary Threats to Homeland Security Compulsory
The Intelligence Community and Interagency Collaboration Compulsory
Civil Liberties and Security Compulsory
Capstone Compulsory

2 Corporate Security Management

Risk Management Compulsory
Continuity of Operations and Planning Compulsory
Essentials of Emergency Management Compulsory
Corporate Security and Investigations Compulsory
Information Systems Policy Compulsory

3 Homeland Security and Emergency Management

Critical Infrastructure and Protection Compulsory
Strategic Planning and Budgeting Compulsory
Continuity of Operations and Planning Compulsory
Essentials of Emergency Management Compulsory
Advanced Emergency Management Compulsory

4 Strategic Intelligence and Analysis

Intelligence Operations Management Compulsory
Globalization and Intelligence Issues Compulsory
Intelligence Analysis and Policy Relationship Compulsory
All-Source Intelligence Compulsory
Counterintelligence Compulsory

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,677.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,677.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 41,355.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,500.00 - USD 2,000.00
Food & Groceries USD 4,200.00 - USD 6,000.00
Transport USD 1,200.00 - USD 1,800.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,440.00 - USD 2,400.00
Estimated Total USD 6,840.00 - USD 10,200.00

Living cost estimates are based on Boston Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

96%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Alternative Aviation Fuel & SustainabilityCrop Production & FarmingCybersecurity & Network SecurityHardware & Semiconductor EngineeringIntelligence & InvestigationsMidstream Operations & Energy LogisticsRenewable Energy (Solar & Wind)Road Transport & LogisticsSpace Exploration & Satellite TechnologyWealth Management & Financial Advisory

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Amazon

Amazon Web Services

Bank of America

City of Boston

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Fidelity Investments

General Dynamics Information Technology

Google

Why Study Security and Intelligence Studies, MA at Northeastern University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Moderate Application response time

Northeastern University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Northeastern University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Security and Intelligence Studies, MA at Northeastern University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks in the US. On-campus work does not require a permit, while off-campus work needs university approval after the first year.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English proficiency requirements, you can submit scores from tests such as Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. Each test has specific minimum scores you must achieve in various sections.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates may pursue roles such as security analyst, intelligence officer, policy advisor, risk assessment manager, and law enforcement consultant.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program merges security, law, and diplomacy to develop skills in intelligence analysis and policy evaluation. You’ll be taught by experienced professionals, including constitutional lawyers and CIA operatives.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MA in Security and Intelligence Studies has three intake months: January, February, and September. You can choose to start your studies during any of these months.
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