Master of National Security
Your Mission: Shape the Future of National Security
The Master of National Security at the LBJ School is built for those ready to lead in a world defined by complexity, competition and rapid technological change. Whether you’re early in your career, serving in the military or seeking your next chapter in public service, policy or tech— this program empowers you to shape outcomes that safeguard nations, institutions and lives.
You’ll gain the strategic insight, analytical skills and policy expertise to confront threats that span cyber warfare, artificial intelligence, disinformation and space-based conflict. Through hands-on learning, real-world simulations and engagement with national security leaders, you’ll prepare to lead where it matters most.
This program is for those who are driven to:
- Defend systems, people and institutions in an era of global instability
- Work at the forefront of policy, intelligence and emerging technologies
- Tackle complex problems with clarity, innovation and purpose
- Lead in mission-critical environments across government, defense, tech and beyond
Connect With Us
Office of Student Affairs and Admissions
Location
SRH 3.104
Phone
512-471-4292
Explore Careers
Launch, Advance or Redefine Your Career in Security and Policy
This program prepares graduates to lead and excel in critical roles across the public, private and nonprofit sectors—bringing strategic insight and specialized expertise to some of the world’s most complex challenges.
From intelligence analysis and cyber operations to emerging tech policy, crisis response and special operations, our alumni lead at the nexus of innovation, security and global affairs.
You’ll gain real-world experience through policy simulations, applied research and collaboration with senior leaders in defense, intelligence and technology—building a portfolio that’s both practical and mission-driven.
Potential employers include:
The CIA, U.S. Department of Defense, State Department, FBI, U.S. military branches, national labs, global NGOs, major tech firms, investment groups, think tanks and international organizations.
"Now is the perfect time to pursue a master’s degree in national security. Whether you're a military officer or a civilian, national security and geopolitics are now players in every decision you're going to make. The sooner you learn it, the sooner you understand it, the better you're going to be able to lead—whether in business or in government—at any level."
- Adm. William McRaven (Ret.)
Professor of National Security
Skills and Courses
World-Class Faculty. World-Class University. World-Class Location.
At the LBJ School, you will be mentored by some of the most accomplished national security leaders in American history—retired admirals, generals, senior intelligence officers and former cabinet officials who shaped U.S. strategy at the highest levels. You’ll learn alongside these experts and engage with agencies like the U.S. Department of Defense and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, as well as top technology firms, defense contractors and innovation partners shaping the future of global security.
As part of The University of Texas at Austin—one of the top public research universities in the country—you’ll have access to a powerful ecosystem of interdisciplinary centers and nationally recognized faculty. Key resources include:
- Clements Center for National Security
- Strauss Center for International Security and Law
- Intelligence Studies Project
That ecosystem extends far beyond the classroom. Austin is also a major center for military innovation, hosting several key U.S. Department of Defense organizations, including Army Futures Command, the Army Application Laboratory and research centers for the Air Force, Navy and Defense Innovation Unit. These military units work directly with UT researchers and local tech companies to address national security challenges, and those collaborations should expand with the Army’s recent decision to create a new Transformation and Training Command in Austin by merging Army Futures Command with the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) to unify force development, training and modernization.
Ready to Apply?
Know-how to change the world. Join a community of change-makers and take the next step toward a career in national security.
Applications open in September 2025!