National Security Studies (NSS) Courses
NSS 4003. Introduction to National Security Studies. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
This course will provide an introduction to the American national security apparatus and the principal threats it seeks to manage. It will review relevant theories of international relations to understand and explain the international security environment, examine ongoing security concerns, examine varying strategic approaches for the conduct of American national security, and review the historical development and contemporary policies and practices of American national security institutions. These theories, practices, and institutions will be examined through the lens of case studies of specific security concerns, from terrorism to human security to warfare. Students completing this course will demonstrate an understanding of the national security policy process, the international security environment, theoretical and strategic perspectives on national security, and the history and practices of American national security institutions, including the armed forces, the Central Intelligence Agency, and more. Course Fee: LRMS $37.50.
NSS 4013. Principles of Leadership. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
Through an interactive approach, students will grow their self, team, and organizational leadership skills. This multi-faceted course encourages personal growth while exploring various leaders and different leadership styles. The course will include a variety of approaches, including hands-on leadership practice, case studies, guest speakers, etc., to further develop skills to effectively lead in various contexts, cultures, and countries. (Formerly titled "Leadership in the Global Arena." Same as NSS 5013. Credit cannot be earned for both NSS 5013 and NSS 4013.). Course Fee: LRMS $37.50.
NSS 4233. Understanding Global Hotspots. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
This course explores current major conflicts around the world by examining their causes, history, and possible future outcomes. Students will explore the role of geography, economics, religion, culture, and other factors as they relate to global politics to better understand foreign policy approaches to complex geopolitical tensions. Course Fee: LRMS $37.50.
NSS 4343. Introduction to Irregular Warfare. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
This course will introduce students to the concept of irregular warfare, studying both its history and current use. Students will examine multiple definitions of irregular warfare, identify its attributes and variables, and learn how it differs from traditional or conventional warfare. The course will explore case studies on irregular warfare operations and activities, and discuss how irregular warfare is currently employed by the United States and its strategic competitors. Upon course completion, students will possess a firm understanding of irregular warfare, how it is integrated into national defense policies, and how it is utilized by decision-makers to achieve strategic objectives. (Same as NSS 5343. Credit cannot be earned for both NSS 5343 and NSS 4343.). Course Fee: LRMS $37.50.
NSS 4673. National Security Law and Ethics. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
While war seems like unrestrained violence, the American security establishment is meaningfully constrained in numerous ways, some relating to concrete laws and policies and others relating to broader ethical concerns. This course will provide an introduction to national security law and ethics, including U.S. Constitutional Law relating to war powers, U.S. domestic laws and institutions, international laws and norms of warfare, ethical debates concerning these laws, and studies of historical cases that have stressed or stretched these laws, including the September 11th, 2001, terrorist attacks. Students completing this course will demonstrate a general understanding of domestic and international law in the area of national security, and an understanding of ethical reasoning relating to the conduct of U.S. security. Course Fee: LRMS $37.50.
NSS 4973. Special Topics in National Security Studies. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.
An organized course offering the opportunity for specialized study not normally or not often available as part of the regular course offerings. May be repeated for credit when topics vary, but no more than 6 hours, regardless of discipline, will apply to the degree. Course Fee: LRMS $37.50.
