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Keep working while developing critical thinking and advanced skills to face today’s national security issues and threats.
Cyber security and technology, great-power competition, intelligence, strategic deterrence, pandemics and international health security, environmental security, and economic stability - this flexible, hybrid program is created specifically for mid-career professionals who want to grow professionally while continuing to do the important work that keeps our world secure.
The Duke MNSP accommodates the needs of working professionals through its hybrid format, convenient meeting times, and flexible degree options. Students can continue to work while completing their degree. Our mission is to develop ethical and inclusive leaders who are committed to using evidence-based tools and rigorous analysis to solve public policy challenges and strengthen society through public service.
At Sanford you'll find:
- Leading experts in public policy and practice
- A close-knit, collaborative community
- Personalized mentoring from faculty and advisors
- Meaningful engagement with practitioners across every sector
- Access to Duke's world-class interdisciplinary expertise
- Tailored career support
- A strong, global network of loyal alumni
- The resources and reach of a top-tier research university
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Program Details | About hybrid learning | Application
"Duke is a fantastic school, and the opportunity to go to grad school while also working full-time was just too good to pass up. I’ve learned so much from my classmates and made some lifelong friends."
- Steph Bossert MNSP'25, U.S. Air Force Special Operations
The curriculum is divided into three sections:
Content
- Methods of Policy Analysis
- Leadership in the National Security Policy Environment
- National Security Ethics
Process
- National Security Budgeting
- National Security Strategy
- Institutions of National Security
- Team-Based Learning for National Security Professionals
Outcomes
- Threats and Opportunities
- Elective
- Professional Practice in National Security - Students explore common barriers in national security work and work one-on-one with faculty members to solve a professional practice issue either through research or a large-scale project.
Sample 12-month sequence
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Sample 20-month Sequence
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The MNSP is a rigorous 30-credit program. It includes a capstone course, "Professional Practice in National Security" in which students explore common barriers in national security work and work one-on-one with a faculty members to solve a professional practice issue either through research or a large-scale project.
The MNSP program does not offer specific concentrations, however the Sanford School has particular strength in these key theme areas:
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The faculty at Duke University’s Sanford School of Public Policy have earned national and international recognition for excellence in research, policy engagement and teaching.
Sanford has a diverse mix of academic scholars and professors of the practice whose practical experience in top leadership roles enhances the classroom experience.
Faculty members collaborate across disciplines to explore questions relating to income inequality, obesity and hunger, energy policy, child neglect and abuse, access to health care, democratization, foreign policy and global concerns.
At Duke Sanford, your career goals are our priority. Whether you aspire to drive local change, shape international development, or lead in the private or nonprofit sector, our Graduate Career Services Team is here to support and prepare you for a purpose-driven career in an evolving policy world.
Explore graduate career services and professional development.
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About the Cohort
Each MNSP cohort is limited to 25 students to support strong cohort connections, create an engaging online learning environment, and ensure personalized instruction.
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Student Profile
The program is for those currently working in national security who have at least 7 years of experience including military servicemembers, civil servants, contractors, and consultants. Most live within a six-hour driving radius from Duke (the Eastern Seaboard from Philadelphia to Savannah and westward to Atlanta or Knoxville).
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In person & online
Students spend 2 weeks on Duke University's campus the first summer of enrollment, and 2 long weekends (Thur.- Sat.) per term until degree completion. The program includes online learning at your convenience, interaction with faculty, and projects directly related to work in national security. The online experience includes live virtual sessions and self-paced coursework.
We prefer candidates with seven years of experience.
Our selection committee considers:
- statement of purpose
- national security experience
- number of years of work experience (7 preferred)
- strong academic performance
- leadership experience
- demonstrated analytical skills
Many successful candidates come from these backgrounds:
- Military - contribute more as senior level staff and/or gain an enhanced understanding of world issues and will understand national security in new way.
- Mid-career contractors and consultants working in public policy / national security.
- Civil service professionals working in national security.
There are no prerequesites for the MNSP program.
Before applying, complete our inquiry form.
A complete application includes:
- A copy of your CV
- 3 letters of recommendation – from academic or work supervisors
- Official transcripts
- A short reflection: “Why are you interested in this program and how do you see it fitting in with your professional practice and future professional goals?” (1-2 pages)
- Optional: GRE Scores
- Optional:Writing Examples (work or academic)
You can find the cost of attendance details on the MNSP Estimated Cost of Attendance page. The total anticipated program cost is $49,650.00, for both 12- and 20-month plan.
Students will pay for any required texts and also will need to consider costs associated with coming to campus for our the immersion sessions. The program will seek ways to block rooms for certain events to hopefully lower costs for lodging.
We have robust financial aid, and we are happy to help you consider all the ways to fund your education.
Have questions about applying to graduate school at the Sanford School of Public Policy! We have answers! Here we have collected answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about the application process
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"Every professor is committed to your success and will go above and beyond to help in any way they can. I still engage with most of my professors even though their classes have finished. I frequently reach out to them for guidance in my career. As national security practitioners themselves, they are an invaluable resource." - Sarah Blake (MNSP'24), MH60 Romeo pilot in the Navy, Senate Liaison
Featured MNSP Student Stories
Education as National Security
Christian Jones, MNSP'24
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Christian Jones sees education and the economy as a matter of national security, and she decided to pursue her MNSP degree in order to pursue a professional future dedicated to addressing these crises and challenges that directly effect American citizens. "National security policy is not limited to military matters," she says.
Broader Understanding
Victoria Weece, MNSP'24
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Victoria Weece MNSP'24 was working in Air Force Special Operations in North Carolina when she decided to pursue an advanced degree. "There really is nothing like the MNSP program," she says. "I have learned more in the national security space in the last year [at Duke] than I think I did in the two and a half years that I was actively sitting in these places and seeing what was happening real time."
More Leadership Tools
Rusty Cotterman, MNSP'23
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"When I saw the MNSP program, it seemed perfect for me," says Rusty Cotterman MNSP'23. "This program, without question, has given me so much in both knowledge and tools to better serve the soldiers I will lead." Rusty is a member of the Army's Third Special Forces.
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Apply to the MNSP Program
- Ready to supercharge your outrageous ambition? Applications open August 15th.
- Get an overview of the applications process
- Explore resources on how to fund your Sanford education
- Have a question? E-mail us: mnsp.admissions@duke.edu
- Attend an admissions event
- Schedule a visit