Global Security

Online Doctor of Global Security (DGS)

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2 Starts Per Year
0 GRE/GMAT Required
0 Book Costs
8 and 16 Week Courses

About This Program

The Doctor of Global Security degree explores the complex global security environment, with a focus 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 conflict and 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.

What You Will Do

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

Degree at a Glance

Number of Credits
58
Total Tuition
$50,054*
Program Length
3 ½ Years
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Program Requirements Printable Catalog Version

Course Code Course Name Credits
DOCT897 Practicum 2
Total Semester Hours 3
Course Code Course Name Credits
DOCT894 Dissertation Proposal Defense 3
DOCT899 Dissertation 1
Total Semester Hours variable
NEXT COHORT STARTS SEPTEMBER 2024
APPLICATION REVIEWS BEGIN APRIL 1, 2024

Admission Requirements

Admission to our 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.

Important Dates

Our doctoral programs are offered two times a year in January and September.

January Cohort Start

Application Deadline
August 1

September Cohort Start

Application Deadline
April 1

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.

Tuition & Fees

Doctor of Global Security Total Costs: $50,054 plus dissertation credits

  • Year One= $20,022 (3 terms x $6,674)
  • Year Two= $20,022 (3 terms x $6,674)
    Plus all residency costs for a personalized international experience.
  • Year Three = $10,010 (2 terms x $5,005)
  • Continuing registration during the dissertation phase is $863 per term.
  • Includes book grant for course materials.

Additional Fees:

  • Application: $100 (non refundable)
  • Graduation: $100
  • AMU Transcript: $5 to $20 depending on delivery method.

Need Help?

Selecting the right program to meet your educational goals is a key step in ensuring a successful outcome. If you are unsure of which program to choose, or need more information, please contact an AMU admissions coach at 877-755-2787 or [email protected].

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:

  1. 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.
  2. Professional Practice
    You must have 3-5 years work experience in the global security field or closely related field.
  3. CV or Resume
    Must include work history, professional accomplishments, service to the profession, and any teaching and research experience.
  4. English Proficiency
    Applicants from a country whose native language is not English (regardless of current residence) must provide proof of English proficiency.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. Photo ID
    Submit a legible color copy of your valid government-issued photo ID.

Program Format & Length

This program is offered in cohorts of 30 students or less, and is taught predominantly online. You may continue working in your field during your studies, but the curriculum workload is considered full time, and you will need to be excused from your professional work responsibilities while attending the required annual residences.

Plan to spend at least 25-30 hours per week on your studies. Completion of the program requires 8 terms plus your dissertation. Each 16-week term includes:

  • 8-week course (3 credits)
  • 8-week course (3 credits)
  • 16-week course (1 credit)

You will take all courses together with your cohort until year two when you choose your electives. Research will be conducted individually, but there will be opportunities for peer feedback and group discussion of research methods.

Quality Education Should Be Affordable

So you can focus on the opportunities ahead, without the financial burden of more expensive schools who are not as invested in your success. Learn more about paying for school.

Consumer Information

*Cost Per Credit Hour

AMU's Preferred Military Rate is $250 per credit hour for all undergraduate and master's-level courses. This rate is available to all U.S. active-duty servicemembers, National Guard members, Reservists, and military families, including parents, spouses, legal partners, siblings, and dependents.
See all military student benefits.

Cost of Attendance

Learn more about AMU’s cost components and full cost of attendance