Defense and Strategic Studies - Reynolds College of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities

Launch your career in national security

Get a graduate-level education in security and defense, policy, arms control and more.

Put your career goals in reach. We're located near the heart of the defense industry: Washington, D.C.

Have an insider's edge: Leaders and experts in the field teach your classes.

Graduate programs

All programs are offered 100% online. You can also take seated classes, or a hybrid of seated/online classes.

Department head John Rose giving guest lecture at Missouri State.

Master's

Defense and strategic studies MS

Rise to the challenges of national and global security.

Available option areas

DSS student speaking to audience at 2020 academic symposium.

Doctorate

Defense and strategic studies

Earn a professional doctoral degree. Do advanced study in security and policy.

Certificates

Don’t have time for a full degree? Certificates, which require fewer courses, can enhance your credentials and training.

Certificate

Defense and strategic studies

Have a better understanding of key issues in defense, security and strategy.

Certificate

Countering weapons of mass destruction

Advise on WMD strategy and policy.

Our home

The school of defense and strategic studies (DSS) is located in the Washington, D.C. metro area, in the nearby suburb of Fairfax, Virginia. Our student body is diverse, with a mix of traditional, mid-career and active-duty military. The program is fully accredited by the Missouri Higher Learning Commission and certified by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia.

Want to know more? Review frequently asked questions.

Defense and Strategic Studies launches new scholarly journal
Wednesday December 11, 2024 at 9:05 p.m.
The inaugural issue features articles on American responses to Asian policies.
ROTC more than just “playing Army”
Friday April 26, 2024 at 3:00 p.m.
Don’t let the uniform fool you. For MSU’s Bear Battalion, ROTC is also about leadership, personal growth and friends.
MSU’s Bear Battalion wins Task Force Ranger Challenge
Thursday October 19, 2023 at 5:22 p.m.
Team advances to Brigade Ranger Challenge Nov. 3-5
Defense and Strategic Studies honors 25 new graduates at spring commencement
Monday July 24, 2023 at 3:34 a.m.
Program graduates second doctorate.