Why Study National Security Policy?

Angela Saverice-Rohan decided to get an advanced degree in national security policy at the Sanford School of Public Policy at Duke. Though Angela works in the private sector as Global Chief Data Steward for EY, she finds the program’s national security focus extremely valuable. 

“All of these things that we’re doing in the private sector has made me realize how much we are not just adjacent to national security, but we are truly embedded in the national security dialogue,” she says. 

The Master of National Security Policy (MNSP) program is designed for working professionals. As a senior executive Angela finds the program “a perfect balance.” A hybrid program, the MNSP includes both online courses and regular time on campus. Angela says she is most interested in studying the fundamentals of national security, leadership and the ethics of national security policymaking. 

A large part of the reason she chose Duke is for the connections she’d make. “I wanted to make sure I was a part of a program that would give me access to senior leaders in national security that would share insights that I couldn’t get outside of this program,” she says, adding that’s exactly how the program has played out. For example, General CQ Brown Junior, former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff came to class for an in-depth discussion. Meeting such national leaders has been “fantastic,” Angela notes.

After the program is over, Angela plans to combine her years of experience in the private sector, and her knowledge of national security to provide value related to “decision making that is happening at some of the highest levels in the protection of our country.”

Angela's story exemplifies how today's national security challenges extend far beyond the military.