Security and Terrorism Studies (online) (MPTS)

Graduate Degree Program
College: Behavioral and Social Sciences

ABSTRACT

The National Consortium for the Study of Terrorism and Responses to Terrorism's (START) MPS in Security and Terrorism Studies provides students with advanced education on the causes, dynamics, and impacts of terrorism and wider issues related to human security in a complex world. The program is dedicated to training and mentoring a new generation of scholars and analysts to holistically examine questions related broadly to terrorism and security. The program uses a "whole of social sciences" approach to prepare students to examine the complex social, political, economic, and psychological underpinnings of terrorist and security threats. Students are exposed to the theoretical and methodological skills necessary to pursue advanced research and/or be successful in an analytic career. The program consists of twelve courses. Courses are offered in an online learning environment. The program can be completed in as little as four semesters.  

The program is appropriate for individuals interested in (and/or currently) working in fields related to intelligence analysis, homeland security analysis, or analysis of other relevant topic areas; and individuals interested in (and/or currently) conducting scholarly research on terrorism and security. 

CONTACT

Marcus Boyd
Graduate Director
National Consortium for the Study of Terrorism and Responses to Terrorism
P.O. Box 266, 5245 Greenbelt Rd.
College Park, MD 20740
Telephone: 301.405.7184
Email: boydma@umd.edu

Website:  http://www.start.umd.edu

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

PROGRAM-SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS

  • Letters of Recommendation (none)
  • CV/Resume
  • Writing Sample (optional)
  • Description of Research/Work Experience (optional)

APPLICATION DEADLINES

Type of Applicant Fall Deadline Spring Deadline
Domestic Applicants
US Citizens and Permanent Residents August 8, 2025 January 3, 2025
International Applicants
F (student) or J (exchange visitor) visas, E,G,H,I and L visas and immigrants August 8, 2025 January 3, 2025

RESOURCES AND LINKS:

Program Website: https://oes.umd.edu/professionals-post-baccalaureates/professional-graduate-programs/security-terrorism-studies
​Application Process: gradschool.umd.edu/admissions