Master of Science in Counter-Terrorism and Homeland Security

American University’s Master of Science in Counter-Terrorism and Homeland Security is an online, 33-credit degree for law enforcement and intelligence professionals who wish to specialize in homeland security. The program builds knowledge and skills in counter-terrorism, national security, law and policy, cybersecurity, and theories of political violence, with a unique focus on terrorism as a social and psychological phenomenon.

This flexible online program combines the benefits of convenient online learning and a practice-based curriculum with a brief onsite residency in Washington, D.C. In addition to this unique opportunity, American University offers connections to federal agencies and the opportunity to study with faculty who are leading practitioners in the field.

The program additionally positions students to compete for coveted internships. These include those offered through the U.S. Government Pathways program as well as the post-graduation internships in the Presidential Management Fellows (PMF) program, a flagship two-year leadership development program in the Federal government.

• For the past two years, American University has produced more PMF finalists than any other university in the country. AU has a 98 percent success rate of its finalists becoming fellows.
• Fellows receive 160 hours of intensive management and leadership training at one or more federal agencies, complete a four-to-six-month developmental assignment, and are eligible for full-time positions upon completion.

In this two year, 36-credit degree, students will:

• Analyze and discuss national and homeland security problems through the application of acquired knowledge of criminology, social science, legal systems, policy, terrorism studies, and intelligence analysis.
• Formulate, evaluate, and communicate public policies and programs related to counter terrorism while using acquired analytic frameworks and methodological skills, including statistics, economics, criminology, and law.
• Apply empirical and data-driven solutions to analyze domestic threats to US homeland security.
• Apply acquired skill sets, expertise, and values to real-world policy problems in a collaborative manner.

American University’s MS in Counter-Terrorism and Homeland Security is a practical, respected degree that often leads to career advancement for graduates. Jobs at federal agencies are highly competitive and may require years to gain entry. But students who have earned this degree have pursued positions at U.S. federal government agencies and intelligence communities post-graduation, with a focus on law enforcement and intelligence operations. These roles are both in Washington, D.C., and in field offices around the nation and the world.

At American University, our smart, passionate and engaged students and faculty focus their knowledge to create meaningful change. Our strengths in international service and public affairs inspire our sense of social responsibility and a dedication to cultural and intellectual diversity. We’re defined by our global perspective, practical idealism and a dedication to public service.

American University is a private, college-centered research university located in the nation’s capital. It was chartered by the United States Congress in 1893 to build public service, and is now home to a prestigious faculty, guest speakers and visiting world leaders who are influential practitioners and prominent thought leaders.

Join us in creating new opportunities for yourself while you help create a better world. Become part of the network of ambitious achievers, compassionate leaders and socially aware citizens at American University.

American University was recognized by Princeton Review, Best Colleges 2022, with the title of College Gets High Marks and ranked the following:

• #79 Best National School — U.S. News & World Report, American's Best Colleges 2022
• #91 Best Value School — U.S. News & World Report, American's Best Colleges 2022

Online Programs

• Master of Arts in Economics
• Master of Arts in Strategic Communication
• Master of Public Administration and Policy
• Master of Science in Counter-Terrorism and Homeland Security
• Master of Science in Health Promotion Management
• Master of Science in Human Resource Analytics and Management
• Master of Science in Measurement and Evaluation
• Master of Science in Nutrition Education
• Master of Science in Sports Analytics and Management

Online Student Experience

American University online programs are delivered through a format that’s convenient, flexible and portable. Like on-campus, students talk about their coursework and current issues with classmates, ask instructors questions and turn in assignments, but it’s all done via email, discussion boards, instant messaging and more.

Online courses at American University are as rigorous and challenging as their on-campus counterparts and taught by the same connected faculty members, influential guest speakers, and prominent lecturers. Interaction and communication with instructors and fellow students are essential components of the programs and academic success.

Online students have access to many support resources including new student orientation, a 24x7 help desk for technical issues, a student services coordinator, financial aid advisers and more.