National Security Studies (NSS)

NSS 5003. Introduction to National Security Studies. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

This course will provide an introduction to the American national security apparatus and the principal threats it seeks to manage. It will review relevant theories of international relations to understand and explain the international security environment, examine ongoing security concerns, examine varying strategic approaches for the conduct of American national security, and review the historical development and contemporary policies and practices of American national security institutions. These theories, practices, and institutions will be examined through the lens of case studies of specific security concerns, from terrorism to human security to warfare. Students completing this course will demonstrate an understanding of the national security policy process, the international security environment, theoretical and strategic perspectives on national security, and the history and practices of American national security institutions, including the armed forces, the Central Intelligence Agency, and more. (Same as NSS 4003. Credit cannot be earned for both NSS 4003 and NSS 5003.). Course Fee: LRMS $12.50.

NSS 5013. Leadership in the Global Arena. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Through an interactive approach, students will grow their self, team, and organizational leadership skills. This multi-faceted course encourages personal growth while also exploring historical leaders and different leadership styles. The course will include a variety of approaches, including hands-on leadership practice, case studies, guest speakers, etc., to further develop skills to effectively lead in various contexts, cultures, and countries. (Same as NSS 4013. Credit cannot be earned for both NSS 4013 and NSS 5013.). Course Fee: LRMS $12.50.

NSS 5233. Understanding Global Hotspots. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

This course explores current major conflicts around the world by examining their causes, history, and possible future outcomes. Students will explore the role of geography, economics, religion, culture, and other factors as they relate to global politics to better understand foreign policy approaches to complex geopolitical tensions. (Same as NSS 4233. Credit cannot be earned for both NSS 4233 and NSS 5233.). Course Fee: LRMS $12.50.

NSS 5673. National Security Law and Ethics. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

While war seems like unrestrained violence, the American security establishment is meaningfully constrained in numerous ways, some relating to concrete laws and policies and others relating to broader ethical concerns. This course will provide an introduction to national security law and ethics, including U.S. Constitutional Law relating to war powers, U.S. domestic laws and institutions, international laws and norms of warfare, ethical debates concerning these laws, and studies of historical cases which have stressed or stretched these laws, including the September 11th, 2001, terrorist attacks. Students completing this course will demonstrate a general understanding of domestic and international law in the area of national security, and an understanding of ethical reasoning relating to the conduct of U.S. security. (Same as NSS 4673. Credit cannot be earned for both NSS 4673 and NSS 5673.). Course Fee: LRMS $12.50.

NSS 6973. Special Topics in National Security Studies. (3-0) 3 Credit Hours.

Prerequisite: Consent of instructor. An organized course offering the opportunity for specialized study not normally or not often available as part of the regular course offerings. May be repeated for credit when topics vary, but no more than 6 hours, regardless of discipline, will apply to the degree. Course Fee: LRMS $12.50.