Application deadline
Next semester for admission consideration: Fall 2023.
Apply by April 7, 2023 to begin in the fall 2023 semester.
Next semester for admission consideration: Fall 2023.
Apply by April 7, 2023 to begin in the fall 2023 semester.
You can complete this program 100% online, in seated classes (Washington, D.C.) or a hybrid of both.
Apply to this program through a central application: GradCAS. Review the sections below before you begin.
This program operates in Fairfax, Virginia, and is certified by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV).
John Rose, Program Director
9302 Lee Hwy, Suite 760, Phone 703-218-3565
DSS1@MissouriState.edu
The Doctor of Defense and Strategic Studies (DDSS) program provides knowledge and skills in the field of international security studies with an emphasis on countering the threat posed by Weapons of Mass Destruction to U.S. and allied national security. This program will prepare national and international security professionals to work in various settings, including civilian and military public service, non-governmental “think tanks,” and commercial defense industry. Graduates specialize in various global or regional international security issues and are able to assess specific security challenges, formulate prospective options for addressing those challenges, and identify the prospective policy and other requirements needed to help implement those options to strengthen U.S. and allied security conditions.
To be considered for admission to the Doctorate of Defenses and Strategic Studies (DDSS), a student must meet the requirements listed below.
Consistent with Graduate College policy, students may not accumulate more than 9 hours of grades below a B- and remain in the program
Foundation Courses (36 hours)
Foundation courses may be taken from the department’s master’s degree program (courses listed below). Students who hold a master’s degree in a related field can be admitted with advanced standing and may not be required to complete additional foundation courses.
Core Courses (15 hours)
Advanced Seminars (15 hours)
Advanced seminar courses focus on application of foundational knowledge. Students work with their advisor to choose courses that are relevant for their focus of study. Course options are listed below.