Public Affairs with a Concentration in Global Security and Intelligence Studies (MPA)
Overview
The Master of Public Affairs program with a concentration in Global Security and Intelligence Studies is designed to meet the growing demand for leaders equipped with adaptable skills, knowledge, and expertise to address the complex, multi-layered, and transboundary challenges of today’s global security environment. This concentration prepares students for careers across public and private sectors, including law enforcement, government agencies, international organizations, and NGOs. Potential fields include intelligence, policing, national security, critical infrastructure protection (food, energy, water), cybersecurity, conflict resolution, and peace operations. In addition to the required courses in the program, students can choose from a wide range of electives covering topics such as crisis management, intelligence analysis, governmental information systems, border region public policy (with emphasis on the U.S.–Mexico border), sustainability, and regional and international development policy. Specialized courses may also address terrorism and counterterrorism, cybersecurity, peacekeeping operations, global health security, and digital governance. Students have the flexibility to tailor their studies to their interests and career goals through experiential learning opportunities, including internships in global security and intelligence, study abroad programs, independent research projects, and capstone projects that apply classroom learning to real-world challenges.
Admission Requirements
To be admitted to the graduate program in public affairs, prospective candidates must first meet all requirements for graduate admission to UT Rio Grande Valley, as well as the other requirements listed below. Please provide:
1. Three names of individuals who may be contacted for personal or professional recommendation.
2. Personal Statement detailing professional goals and reasons for pursuing the graduate degree indicating references to previous employment and experience.
Application for admission must be submitted prior to the published deadline. The application is available at www.utrgv.edu/gradapply.
Program Requirements
Students in the MPA Public Affairs with a concentration in Global Security and Leadership will complete 36 hours for the degree. The program includes a thesis and non-thesis option.
Required Courses
Core Courses - 15 hours
| PAFF 6301 | Introduction to Public Administration |
| PAFF 6314 | Formulation of Public Policy |
| PAFF 6364 | Masters of Public Affairs Capstone |
| PAFF 6380 | Introduction to Global Security and Intelligence |
| POLS 6370 | Research Methods and Applied Statistics |
Concentration Courses
Concentration Core - 9 hours
| PAFF 6334 | Current Issues in Public Policy/Global Security |
| PAFF 6342 | Technology and Global Securities |
| PAFF 6381 | Homeland Security in the U.S. |
Prescribed Electives
Students will choose six hours of prescribed electives list below.
Choose two - 6 hours
Non-thesis Option
Choose two additional prescribed electives - 6 hours
Thesis Option
Thesis Courses - 6 hours
Total Credit Hours: 36