Program Overview
Led by globally recognized experts, the program offers a flexible online format, allowing students to complete the 30-credit program within one to six years. Graduates are prepared for diverse career opportunities in security-related fields, including conflict zone reconstruction, consulting, and intelligence analysis.
Program Outline
Led by globally recognized experts, the program offers a rigorous curriculum that combines theoretical and practical applications through case studies, policy exercises, and critical thinking.
- Enhance critical thinking and analytical skills to understand the evolving nature of conflict.
- Analyze the role of irregular warfare in the global security environment.
- Evaluate case studies and contemporary events to gain practical insights.
- Prepare graduates for diverse career opportunities in security-related fields.
Description:
The program explores various aspects of irregular warfare, including:
- Proxy wars and their impact on global dynamics.
- Counterinsurgency strategies and tactics.
- Narrative warfare and its influence on public opinion.
- Historical and contemporary case studies of irregular warfare.
- The role of special operations forces in irregular warfare.
- The relationship between irregular warfare and cyberwarfare.
- The impact of technology on irregular warfare strategies.
Outline:
Course Schedule:
The program offers online courses with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. Students can choose from a variety of courses to fulfill the program requirements.
Structure:
The 30-credit program comprises:
- Required Core Course (3 credits): War, Conflict, and Security
- Concentration Courses (12 credits): Focused on specific aspects of irregular warfare
- Restricted Electives (12 credits): Selected from a pre-approved list
- Culminating Experience (3 credits): Capstone project
Modules:
- Governance in Post-conflict and Transitional Contexts: Examines the challenges and opportunities of rebuilding societies after conflict.
- Terrorism and Insurgency: Explores the motivations, strategies, and responses to terrorism and insurgency.
- Narrative Conflict: Analyzes the role of information and communication in modern warfare.
- Proxy Warfare, Strategic Thinking, History and Operational Arts: Investigates the use of proxy forces to achieve strategic objectives.
- Understanding Great Power Competition: Examines the dynamics of competition between major powers in the 21st century.
- Special Topics: Provides in-depth exploration of specific topics related to irregular warfare.
Assessment:
Assessment methods may include:
- Exams: Testing knowledge and understanding of key concepts.
- Essays: Analyzing complex issues and developing critical arguments.
- Case Studies: Applying theoretical frameworks to real-world scenarios.
- Presentations: Communicating research findings and insights effectively.
- Capstone Project: Demonstrating the ability to conduct independent research and apply learned skills.
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
- Interactive lectures: Engaging discussions and active participation.
- Case study analysis: Applying theoretical concepts to real-world situations.
- Guest speakers: Insights from leading experts in the field.
- Online resources: Access to a vast library of academic materials.
Faculty:
- Internationally recognized experts: Leading scholars and practitioners with extensive experience in irregular warfare.
- Diverse backgrounds: Bringing a range of perspectives and real-world insights to the classroom.
Unique Approaches:
- Focus on contemporary issues: Keeping the curriculum relevant to the evolving nature of conflict.
- Integration of theory and practice: Combining academic knowledge with practical application.
- Flexibility and accessibility: Online format allows students to learn at their own pace and from anywhere.
Careers:
Career Paths:
- Conflict zone and post-war reconstruction
- Consulting for private, public, and non-governmental organizations
- Global security intelligence (public and private sector)
- Military advancement
- Risk assessment (public and private sector)
- Security policy analysis
Career Opportunities:
- Analyst: Analyze data and intelligence to inform decision-making.
- Risk Manager: Identify and mitigate risks associated with security threats.
Outcomes:
Graduates of the program are prepared for a variety of challenging and rewarding careers in the field of security. They possess a comprehensive understanding of irregular warfare, critical thinking skills, and the ability to apply their knowledge to real-world situations.
Other:
- The program is offered online, providing flexibility for students.
- Students can complete the program in one to six years, depending on their pace and schedule.
- The program is designed for students with a bachelor's degree in any field.
- The program is offered in partnership with the School of Politics and Global Studies at ASU.
