Top 5 things you can do with a Master of Defense and Strategic Studies
One question that many students ask is, “What job will I get if I pursue a master’s degree in defense and strategic studies?” The truth is that there is no “typical” career path for DSS graduates. However, students who are interested in studying national policy, military strategy, operational art, diplomacy, interagency processes, strategic planning and defense-related issues are all a good fit for this program.
UTEP alumni who have completed our National Security Studies Institute’s Master of Defense and Strategic Studies program work in a multitude of fields. To emphasize the applicability and marketability of this 100% online program, here are five career paths you can pursue with your DSS degree.
Military analyst
Military analysts are hired by state intelligence organizations like the CIA, FBI, DIA and NSA to aid military commanders and policy-makers with research, briefings and assessments of the strategic capabilities, intentions, and decision-making of foreign national security institutions and non-state actors, such as terrorist organizations. Military analysts also examine peacekeeping operations, military diplomacy, civil-military relations and the tactical efficiency of foreign weapons and forces.
Policy analyst
The interdisciplinary emphasis of the defense and strategic studies program makes it ideal for students eager to develop proficiencies in policy analysis and planning. While most policy analysts work for the government, graduates can also secure jobs at policy research firms and nonprofit organizations. Policy analysts work hard to make an impact in political and social spheres, while at the same time raising public awareness of issues such as defense.
Cybersecurity expert
Cybersecurity experts are hired by both private and government cybersecurity agencies to create and manage huge, complex security information systems, using their IT skills to offer technical support. The UTEP online graduate degree in defense studies allows students to learn about the nature of security from a technological and legal perspective. If you are interested in this field, you should also consider pursuing UTEP’s online graduate certificate in systems engineering.
Intelligence officer
Of all security jobs, the position of intelligence officer is probably the most coveted. These individuals conduct military missions and gather covert intelligence with the aim of amassing information on terror attacks. They often work with agencies such as the FBI, DEA, CIA and NSA, as well as the different intelligence branches within the government, and perform their duties on both domestic and international soil. Most intelligence officers possess previous military experience.
Educator
Some institutions do not require a doctorate degree from individuals interested in becoming educators. If you choose to take your career into education, your master’s degree in defense and strategic studies will ensure that you are adequately versed in numerous subject areas, which will allow you to teach holistic lessons to your students. And, of course, this can be an ideal stepping stone for students who wish to further their education to a doctoral level.
In addition to the five careers listed above, there are numerous other roles you could pursue with UTEP’s Master of Defense and Strategic Studies. For more information about our nationally recognized program, contact UTEP Connect today at 1-800-684-UTEP.
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