Location:

Haifa, Israel

Program Type:

Full Degree

Degree Level:

Master

Specialty:

International Relations

Program Overview

Program Description:

The MA program in National Security Studies is designed for students and professionals who are seriously interested in the field of national security in the broadest sense of the term. Students will examine the complex interrelationship between the social, political, ethical, diplomatic, economic and military dimensions of national security to create a comprehensive picture of the state of the nation. The program aims to prepare graduates to deal effectively with critical national decisions. The program targets mid-career officials, academics and students from Israel and around the world, as well as retired and active members of defense and foreign affairs establishments. Facing a long-standing challenge at the center of a mostly hostile regional environment, even decades before its establishment, Israel has accumulated the experience in dealing with national security issues and has developed a comprehensive approach in this field, combining academic theory with real-world constraints. Graduates of this program can expect to develop careers in governmental, security and private organizations, which are interested in enhancing their ability to deal with strategic affairs, challenges and opportunities. The one-year program is taught in English over three consecutive semesters from September through August. Program Outline The program combines theoretical discussions and actual Israeli experiences. The program consists of seminars and courses, taught by leading academics in their field of specialty, as well as discussions with practitioners from the fields of intelligence, military, economics and policy. Coursework: All courses are required and will consist of the following main components: 1) Study of political science 2) Introduction to the Middle East and Israel 3) Specific courses on various aspects of national security, such as ethics, communications and economics Practicum: In order to expose students to the work of organizations engaged in national security-related matters, they will be required to participate in a short practicum. Exceptional students will be able to participate in research conducted at the National Security Studies Center as part of their practicum. Students who demonstrate excellence during the practicum may be approached to continue research at the Center after the completion of their studies. Academic Study Tours: Students will be offered professional tours of areas of special national security significance and to meet with high-ranking officials – past and present – involved in the political, intelligence and military establishment on site (where authorized).

Additional Program Information

Accreditation:

The University of Haifa is an accredited university under the auspices of Israel's Ministry of Education and the Israeli Council for Higher Education and in accordance with the standards and criteria of North American and European Universities.

Financial Aid:

Yes

Requirements:

Candidates must have completed an undergraduate degree in political science, the social sciences or history with a minimum GPA of 3.0 or the equivalent.

International Requirements:

Candidates, who have not graduated from an academic institution where the language of instruction is English, or who are not native English speakers, must submit official TOEFL scores of at least 570 (in a written test), 230 (in a computerized test), or 89 (in an internet test) to be considered for admission. For detailed information about all admission requirements including prerequisites, please contact the Admissions Office.