Doctor of Global Security (D.G.S.)

The Doctor of Global Security degree explores the complex global security environment. It focuses on the role actors play in the formulation and implementation of international, bilateral, and state policies and norms, and practices of global scope and concern. The program also addresses the impact of global security issues on domestic security and foreign policy.

The multidisciplinary curriculum integrates research and evidence-based solutions to the complex problems you face in your professional practice and is designed to help prepare you for leadership in the field. Strong emphasis is placed on conducting thorough program and policy evaluations that identify and analyze decisions beyond first-order impacts and on further cultivating your applied research skills at an advanced level.

This doctoral program embraces a scholar-practitioner model of education. Courses are taught by highly credentialed and experienced instructors, many of whom hold key positions in government agencies or public safety organizations.

Degree Program Objectives

Analyze the academic and professional practice of global security.
Synthesize the major theories, approaches, and concepts relevant to the global security discipline.
Analyze complex issues and challenges related to the global security discipline.
Apply theories, approaches, and concepts to real-world examples related to global security.
Assess the impact of global security issues on domestic security and foreign policy.
Analyze the ideas, beliefs, language, culture, psychology, and decision making of actors in the global environment.
Design research studies using appropriate qualitative and quantitative approaches for the global security discipline.
Operate according to ethical research and professional behavior guidelines in the global security discipline.

Admission Requirements

Admission to our AMU and APU doctoral programs is selective. Students are selected based on evidence of outstanding intellectual ability, strong commitment to applied research and practice in the discipline, and demonstrated ability to successfully complete post-baccalaureate study. Interviews will be held with selected students prior to a final admission decision.

All required admissions documents are due before the review can begin. We recommend you apply at least 3 months in advance of your intended cohort start date.

Required Documentation

Upon completion of the application and payment of the non-refundable $100.00 application fee, you will be assigned a student ID. This will allow you to complete your admissions package, which consists of the following required documentation:

Prior Education
Your master’s degree in a closely related discipline with a minimum GPA of 3.0 is required. Related disciplines include: International/Global Studies; International Relations and Affairs; Political Science; Criminal Justice; Homeland Security; National Security; Military Studies; Cybersecurity; Resource Management; and Global Business and Management. Other degrees and doctoral experience may be considered. Your official transcript verifying the award of your master’s degree must be sent from the issuing institution in sealed envelopes or by official electronic copy (such as National Student Clearinghouse transcript). No faxed or unsealed transcripts will be accepted.
Professional Practice
You must have 3-5 years work experience in the global security field or closely related field.
CV or Resume
Must include work history, professional accomplishments, service to the profession, and any teaching and research experience.
English Proficiency
Applicants from a country whose native language is not English (regardless of current residence) must provide proof of English proficiency.
Three References
Choose three references from colleagues or professors with whom you have current or recent (within the past 3-5 years) professional associations, and ask them to complete the doctoral reference form. Your references will assess your professional accomplishments, leadership in the discipline, written and verbal communication skills, service activities, and personal strengths necessary for successful completion of a doctoral program.
Admission Essay
In 750-1200 words, explain why you are applying to this doctoral program. Please discuss your rationale for earning a doctorate in this field and include specific examples for how this degree will help you obtain your long-term academic and professional career goals. Provide examples of how current issues in this field inform your decisions, making sure to include current relevant literature and cite using Chicago/Turabian style.
Photo ID
Submit a legible color copy of your valid government-issued photo ID. Military students, except Air Force, can submit a government issued JST.

Degree at a Glance

Program Milestones

Portfolio Defense: This requirement is an oral defense of the portfolio to demonstrate mastery of disciplinary knowledge and the program learning outcomes for doctoral coursework.
Dissertation Proposal Defense: This requirement is an oral defense of the dissertation proposal in order to receive dissertation committee approval of the dissertation concept and research plan. The portfolio defense must be successfully completed to defend the dissertation proposal.
Dissertation Defense: This requirement is an oral defense of the complete dissertation at the conclusion of the research and writing process. Students must pass the dissertation defense, make any necessary revisions, and publish the dissertation in ProQuest before the doctoral degree can be conferred.

The program is a total of 58 semester hours, plus continuing registration for the dissertation requirement.

Degree at a Glance table - Global Security

Core Requirements

Professional Practice Requirements

Elective Requirements

Residency Requirements

Practicum Requirements

Dissertation Requirements

Total Semester Hours