From fighting cyber attacks to tackling terrorism, Sanford faculty are working to prepare students for the national security challenges of the 21st century. Graduates have secured jobs in key executive departments, such as defense, state, and homeland security, as well as in intelligence agencies and consulting firms.
Academic Overview
The Public Policy Studies major is a perennial top major at Duke University.
- Master of National Security Policy
- Master of Public Policy (National Security and Foreign Policy Concentration available) - View concentration requirements
- Counterterrorism and Public Policy Fellowship program (certificate)
- Sanford in the military
PhD in Public Policy
Sample Stories & Research
Student Story
Ben Dratch MPP'23 says Sanford offered him a unique opportunity to interact with national security experts and leading academics. "The faculty challenge students to wrestle with complex topics and think deeply about the factors that shape the global security environment," he says. "I know that the skills, knowledge, and friendships I acquired at Sanford will help me tremendously as I continue on in my career."
Army Major Ben Dratch is currently serving on active duty as a U.S. Army Strategist.
Research Feature
A stunning Sanford report digs into the sale of data on U.S. military personnel. Findings indicate that it is not difficult to obtain sensitive data about active-duty members of the military, their families, and veterans, including non-public, individually identified, and sensitive data, such as health data, financial data, and information about religious practices from data brokers. The research team was led by Justin Sherman, a senior fellow at Sanford.
What can you do with a focus on National Security & Foreign Policy?
Alumni Story
Amy Kramer PPS’18 worked in the Pentagon as part of the inaugural class of John McCain Strategic Defense Fellows. She serves as Special Assistant to the Under Secretary of the Army. While at Duke, Amy built on her experience as a Cadet in Army ROTC and completed an undergraduate thesis on the impact of female leadership in Army ROTC programs nationally.
Key Partnerships
Let's Connect!
Interested in pursuing a degree focusing on National Security & Foreign Policy? Great! The admissions page for each program has detailed guidelines, including our contact info. Please reach out!
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