Overview of a Graduate Certificate in International Relations and National Security Studies

A Graduate Certificate in International Relations and National Security Studies will provide students with specialized learning in international security and peace studies, topics relevant to international relations, security studies, international law, and theories in international relations. The certificate also provides a comprehensive overview of a variety of topics related to developing theories and advanced strategies in international security and peace theories and applications.

How difficult is it to complete a Graduate Certificate in International Relations and National Security Studies?

Completing a Graduate Certificate in International Relations and National Security Studies is a challenging undertaking. Depending on the institution, students typically take 18-24 credit hours and must successfully complete related courses on topics such as international relations theories, strategic studies, international politics, and international law. Other topics include diplomatic history, organizations and institutions, research methods, regional security and terrorism, foreign policy, and conflict resolution.

Why should one pursue a Graduate Certificate in International Relations and National Security Studies?

Those who hold a Graduate Certificate in International Relations and National Security Studies are generally better equipped to handle the nuanced aspects of international politics and relations. The certificate provides students with the skills to analyze global trends, have a better understanding of national security and defense strategies, and gain insight on how to shape and implement foreign policies. All of this in turn equips graduates to pursue a variety of dynamic and challenging international career paths, from diplomacy to academia, both in the public or private sectors.

What are the typical steps in obtaining a Graduate Certificate in International Relations and National Security Studies?

Most institutions require students to have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited and recognized university, coupled with a minimum 3.0 cumulative grade point average (GPA) to take their graduate courses. Beyond this, most institutions will require the applicant to submit an application, an official transcript of previous college or university coursework, letters of recommendation, and a short essay on why they are pursuing a Graduate Certificate in International Relations and National Security Studies.

Is a Graduate Certificate in International Relations and National Security Studies worth pursuing?

Holding a Graduate Certificate in International Relations and National Security Studies can prove to be beneficial and may open up a variety of doors in the field of international relations. The knowledge obtained from the program will be beneficial in making sense out of the complex global changes and facilitate the proper usage of data and resources.

Impact of artificial intelligence on International Relations and National Security Studies?

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the way international relations and national security studies are tackled. AI can analyze vast amounts of data quickly and accurately and provide insights on potential scenarios and their various outcomes. This has allowed researchers and policy executives to more quickly respond to global events and adjust strategies accordingly. AI has also been found to improve the decision-making process, providing policymakers with better tools to manage a variety of security challenges.

The career outlook for those who successfully complete a Graduate Certificate in International Relations and National Security Studies?

Those who successfully complete a Graduate Certificate in International Relations and National Security Studies will have a variety of career options available to them. These may include roles in government or international agencies, universities or diplomatic corps, non-governmental organizations, consulting firms, think tanks, and more. There is a high demand for professionals with the skills and knowledge gained from a Graduate Certificate in International Relations and National Security Studies and a very strong job outlook for the near future.

Here are the top reported starting salaries for graduates in International Relations and National Security Studies:

Texas A & M University-College Station, Salary: $56,371

For privacy reasons, not all schools report the first year salaries for students who earned their graduate certificate in International Relations and National Security Studies.