National Security Strategy Graduate Certificate

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Power, policy and practices of security

Gain strategic insight, policy literacy and geopolitical perspective with a graduate certificate in national security strategy.

Understand how leaders design and execute strategy and how those decisions shape global outcomes.

Why earn a graduate certificate in national security strategy at Missouri State?

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Set your own pace

You can finish this certificate in as little as one academic year. Start in the fall or spring. Take in-resident or online classes, or both.

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More bang for your buck

Upon completing the national security strategy graduate certificate, you can apply your credits toward a master's or doctorate in defense and strategic studies.

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Strategic insight that fits your budget

Earn this 12-hour, graduate-level certificate online for about $1,600 per course. Select four courses (12 credit hours) from five options:

  • DSS 700: Strategy and U.S. Defense Policy
  • DSS 712: American National Security Policy
  • DSS 715: Grand Strategy
  • DSS 724: Leadership in National Security Policy
  • DSS 725: Seminar on Instruments of State Power
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Grow your skills for advanced roles

As a rising professional, you'll have an affordable, flexible path to advance your expertise in national security and statecraft. You'll develop the analytical and decision-making skills essential for leadership and policy roles in government, defense, intelligence and international business.

Skills and topics: Provide better service to your country

In high-stakes security environments, organizations need professionals who can deliver clear analysis, actionable advice and strategic results.

This certificate equips you with practical insight on real-world policy challenges, historical case studies and decision-making under pressure — skills directly applicable to senior analyst, leadership and advisor roles.

Advance into roles like:

  • Policy or strategic analyst
  • National security or defense advisor
  • Intelligence or security professional
  • Government or military planner
  • International affairs or risk analyst
  • Program manager in security-related sectors

Upgrade your skill set. Increase your market value.

Review program requirements