This program is six courses (36 credits), each of which is 11 weeks in length. Students master one course at a time, with each course building on the next to create a strong foundation of knowledge and context for future topics. The program culminates in a required one-week residency and a graduation ceremony at Norwich University in June.
The coursework will provide students with a broad exposure the relationship between politics and the various kinds of national power to better equip graduates with working collaboratively with agencies on matters of national security.
You will review the basic theories that govern international relations and political science. The course also traces the historical evolution of diplomacy within the international system, providing a sense of its progression and an awareness of the milestones of diplomatic interaction within that system.
You will explore the international economic system, examine the impact of modernization within the system, and investigate the controversy over the concept of globalization and the debate of free trade versus protectionism. You will become familiar with the international financial network and its institutions. Special attention will be given to Third World development issues and the concept of economics as a tool of diplomacy and military power.
6
Meeting Change with Action
A world in turmoil demands decisive leadership. The need for skilled tacticians and strategic thinkers has never been greater, and the ability to back diplomacy with a standard of indisputable strength begets a tremendous opportunity for those with the vision to seize it. The Master of Arts in Strategic Studies program capitalizes upon Norwich University’s nearly 200-year tradition of grooming leaders in the military, public sector, and private industry. Students have the means to broaden their knowledge of global geopolitics, international diplomacy and military strategy—and thereby transform their careers. Whether they are looking to advance in their current line of work or transition to a new endeavor, the Master of Arts in Strategic Studies program is an essential building block for motivated individuals who seek to preempt change with innovation.
Graduates of the online Master of Arts in Strategic Studies program at Norwich University join a thriving network of highly motivated, successful and conscientious alumni who continue to shape the world in the image of Norwich’s sterling values. A master’s degree in Strategic Studies from Norwich University can open a number of doors, in relevant career paths with organizations including but not limited to:
U.S. Military
Department of Defense
Central Intelligence Agency
Federal Bureau of Investigation
National Security Agency
State Department
Transportation Security Administration
Department of Homeland Security
Government and private think tanks
Private security firms
Defense contractors
Master of Arts in Strategic Studies Program Curriculum
MASS
program_master
What was unique about Norwich was that I gained an enriched awareness because the coursework so closely mirrored what was happening in my professional life.
Chris Bolton
Norwich Graduate, Class of 2019
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Achieve Your Career Goals
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Peace is the Mission; Strategy is the Means
Coursework equips you with the skills and knowledge necessary to undertake the evolving mission of the United States military, as well as to collaborate with agencies outside the Department of Defense on matters of national security. Under the tutelage of skilled faculty, you can use our flexible online platform to explore the unique relationship between politics and national power, from the application of democracy to the threatened use of military action and beyond. The program culminates in a capstone project designed to help you synthesize the principles and objectives of the program and apply your theoretical and methodological skills to real-world affairs.
Master of Arts
Students complete all course offerings.
1 Week
1
Week Residency
Visit campus for culminating experience
15 Students
15
Students
Maximum number of students per class
18 Months
18
Months
Average time to program completion
Next Start Date
8
June
Next Start Date
App Deadline
11
May
Application Deadline
Why Norwich?
Learn how to apply your knowledge to comprehensive national security solutions.
As the nation’s first military college, Norwich is proud to support you as you balance an active duty schedule with academic pursuits.
Coursework is rigorous, relevant and immediately applicable to your career.
Flexible online platform offers you ability to complete coursework that fits your schedule.
Accreditation & Recognition
Norwich University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (formerly the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc.).
Meet graduates from our master's programs.
At a Glance
Undergraduate degree in related field
Current or prior military service
Undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or higher
Contact Admissions
Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. EDT Extended hours available by appointment
GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.
Military Benefits
You may receive the equivalent of up to 12 semester credits for study conducted elsewhere. Norwich complies with VA regulations and guidelines as it pertains to transfer credits.
A bachelor's degree in one of the following areas:
National Security Studies
Strategic Studies and Defense Analysis
Studies in War and Peace
Political Science
Criminal Justice
Management Studies (with a Strategic Studies concentration)
Or a related area
If English is not your first language, proof of English language proficiency is required. This can be demonstrated in one of three ways:
TOEFL - a minimum score of 550 (paper-based test) or 80 (Internet-based test) is required.
IELTS – a minimum composite score of 6.5 is required.
The applicant holds a baccalaureate or master’s degree from a college/university/institution in which the primary language of instruction was English.
Please Note: All eligibility requirements are expected to be met unless noted in specific articulation agreements or memoranda of understand (MOUs).
Application Process
We encourage you to contact an admissions advisor if you need help at any stage of the application process. You will be required to submit the following items:
The Master of Arts in Strategic Studies program is an investment in your future that we can help you manage from a financial perspective. We work with military personnel each day to help them maximize their benefits. There are many ways to get financial assistance and several financial strategies that can help you achieve your academic and professional goals. We are here to help you identify and pursue the options that are best for you.
I was able to apply the skills that I learned and bring several large bureaucratic organizations together to reach a common goal.
Class of 2013
Master of Arts in Diplomacy
https://online.norwich.edu/norwich-impact/alumni-stories/kevin-boyd
Angela
Pashayan
I am constantly working on projects in the UAE, Africa, Asia, and the U.S. and was able to put my knowledge to work immediately, particularly in cross-cultural communication and negotiation styles.
Class of 2014
Master of Arts in Diplomacy
https://online.norwich.edu/norwich-impact/alumni-stories/angela-pashayan
Paul
Caron
In order to become a multidimensional leader in today’s Army, I knew that pursuing my degree was a must. Obtaining this degree from Norwich University would ensure that I was set up for success after the Army.
Class of 2012
Bachelor of Science in Strategic Studies and Defense Analysis
https://online.norwich.edu/norwich-impact/alumni-stories/paul-caron
Scholarship Opportunities
Norwich University offers a range of opportunities to help you lower your overall tuition costs. Contact our admissions team today to learn more about the below options. Please note that scholarships are not additive. In addition to the below scholarships, students may also be eligible for discounts if their organization partners with Norwich University.
Achievement Scholarship
Recognizing your past academic and professional achievements, the Achievement Scholarship is for newly enrolled students. You could receive a $4,200 scholarship, which will be distributed equally over the courses of the program. To be considered for this scholarship opportunity, submit your application package (application form, resume, letter of intent, and essay (if applicable)) for your program of interest at least one week prior to the upcoming application deadline. The Scholarship Selection Committee will review all application materials and select the recipient.
Norwich Alumni Scholarship
Norwich University alumni and their spouses, parents, and children are eligible to receive our Alumni Scholarship. The scholarship is award for each term of enrollment at $425 per term.
Active Duty Military Scholarship
Active duty, National Guard, and Reserve personnel are eligible to receive a $250 award for each term of enrollment in an online master’s degree program.