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About This Program
Enhance your level of professional military knowledge with a master’s in military studies from American Public University (APU).
APU’s online master’s degree in military studies aims to produce thoughtful warrior practitioners by promoting military thought, achieved by considering the dynamic interaction of history, theory, and doctrine of the military art of war.
The program uses a four-part social science methodology to approach the discipline: military history, military theory and principles, military concepts and doctrine, and military leader and conflict analysis.
Academic professionals, senior military leaders, and those serving in the national security arena provided input in developing APU’s curriculum. APU’s Master of Arts in Military Studies sharpens your capacities for effective research, analysis, methodological, and presentation skills relative to military studies.
What You Will Do
- Promote military thought by analyzing the origins, development, content, and implications of essential military theories and principles
- Assess major developments, concepts, trends, , events, people, and organizations that have shaped military studies in historical and modern contexts
- Creatively analyze and methodically evaluate the variables and influences affecting the theory and practice of war
- Master and apply the social science methodology to enhance your ability to analyze military-related topics beyond a solely historical approach
Degree at a Glance
Number of Credits
36
Cost Per Credit
$425 | $250*
$382.50**
$382.50**
Courses Start Monthly
Online
-
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Program Requirements Printable Catalog Version
Students must choose a concentration for this degree program:
This concentration studies modern joint warfare operations, leadership, and management. Students will learn of the theory, practice, planning, implementation, command and control, and overarching military philosophy that pervades today’s joint military environment. Going beyond the specific joint military community, students will also study coalition warfare and future war. The application of air, land, and sea power in joint operations can be analyzed as well as seen through past joint operations. Most popular among students from all military services and inter-governmental agencies, this major is open to any interested military or civilian student who seeks to know more of military philosophy, strategy, tactics, history, and contemporary issues.
Objectives:
Focuses on modern joint warfare operations, leadership, and management, including the theory, practice, planning, implementation, command and control, and overarching military philosophy of today’s joint military environment. Topics include coalition warfare; future military conflict; the application of air, land, and sea power in joint operations; and various case studies in joint warfare from World War II to the present.
Must take all courses for this section.
Course ID: 3274
|
This course is a study of the contemporary factors essential and necessary to function effectively in joint or coalition warfare exercises at joint or combined headquarters. Students learn steps, techniques and concepts for effective joint operations planning and implementation appropriate to the operational or strategic levels of war.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10/30/23 - 03/29/24 | 04/01/24 - 05/26/24 | Spring 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3275
|
This course examines doctrinal aspects of command and control through a study of joint warfare theory in the current Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) curriculum. Emphasis is on Joint Vision, Joint Expeditionary Task Forces, Joint Air Support, and Accelerated Cumulative Warfare. Students use the Joint Military Operations Historical Collection series to explore antecedents to modern applications from the Battle of Vicksburg to Operation Uphold Democracy.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
| 03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3273
|
This course offers a series of case studies in joint warfare from World War II to the present. Students examine the U.S. military experience with joint operations, combined operations, and coalition warfare and assess the changing nature of joint warfare in the Cold War, post-Cold War, and post-9/11 global environments in light of specific operations against nation-states and non-state/transnational actors, such as terrorist networks. Special emphasis is on analysis of how joint and combined doctrine has evolved and influenced the American way of war.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11/27/23 - 05/03/24 | 05/06/24 - 06/30/24 | Spring 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3219
|
This course considers the nature of future military conflict, the history of future war doctrine, and the impact of current conflict on the conceptualization of the "next war." Students examine current, past, and future low-intensity as well as high-intensity conflicts, and the appropriate use of military force in the power projection role to influence a diplomatic resolution to a conflict. Rogue nations, and related cultural clashes, and religious factors are related to planning for future war.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11/27/23 - 05/03/24 | 05/06/24 - 06/30/24 | Spring 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Choose 3 credit hours from this section.
Course ID: 4726
|
This course provides an understanding of strategic leadership as applied to military and civilian aspects of government. Through a broad examination of strategic leadership principles and theories, and relevant case studies, students explore the interaction of strategic leaders with the media, civil society, and the nation’s political leaders. Students learn how successful strategic leaders have used transformational leadership skills to innovate, motivate, and transform people and enterprises. (Prerequisites: NSEC500 or MILS500)
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10/30/23 - 03/29/24 | 04/01/24 - 05/26/24 | Spring 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4523
|
This course provides an overview of air and space power theory through the examination of major aspects of air and space power in their historical and contemporary contexts. Students will study the use of air power in past conflicts, examine contemporary roles of air and space power, and determine the evolving near-term roles of air and space power in warfare. (Prerequisites: MILS500 or NSEC500 for students on previous catalog versions)
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11/27/23 - 05/03/24 | 05/06/24 - 06/30/24 | Spring 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3239
|
This course is an in-depth seminar in asymmetrical warfare in relation to the U.S. military history and operational experience. Students explore the changing nature of asymmetrical warfare in terms of current theory, conjecture, and definition. Key issues of asymmetry and adaptation are assessed in relation to insurgency, counterinsurgency force doctrine, and action-reaction-counteraction cycle. Special emphasis is on the value of approaches that employ innovative tactics, weapons, or technologies across the spectrum of military operations.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11/27/23 - 05/03/24 | 05/06/24 - 06/30/24 | Spring 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3240
|
This course examines the history and mission of United States special operations forces and roles within operational and tactical environments. Students explore special operations doctrine and tactics from past to present in the global war on terror. Students compare and contrast the use of special operations forces for pre-conflict, operations, and post-conflict scenarios in Afghanistan, Iraq, and the Philippines.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11/27/23 - 05/03/24 | 05/06/24 - 06/30/24 | Spring 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3220
|
This course is a critical analysis of the origins and structures of insurgency and revolution. Various theories and analyses are presented and tested against the historical record. Students assess how these ideas have assisted or hindered the study of and interaction with specific groups of insurgents and revolutionaries. Special emphasis is on revolutionary movements as represented by the Bolsheviks, the Chinese Communists, the Viet Minh/Viet Cong, and militant Islamist insurgents.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10/30/23 - 03/29/24 | 04/01/24 - 05/26/24 | Spring 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 2520
|
This course is a study of the air component of joint warfare in the modern age. Students address the air component strengths and weaknesses in working in interagency, inter-service environments as seen through analysis of several modern military operations.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
| 03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3499
|
This course is a comprehensive study of the naval doctrines, strategies, and force components involved in joint warfare in the modern age. Students address the naval component strengths and weaknesses in working in interagency, interservice environments as seen through analysis of several modern military operations.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11/27/23 - 05/03/24 | 05/06/24 - 06/30/24 | Spring 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3224
|
This course is a study of militant foreign ethnic/religious groups not outwardly affiliated with a sovereign state. Students address specific individuals and groups as case studies in order to draw out the implications and principles associated with actual non-state military, terrorist, events and actions. Focus is on the individuals and cells that carry out the military and terrorist plans to further insurgencies and revolutions.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10/30/23 - 03/29/24 | 04/01/24 - 05/26/24 | Spring 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3471
|
This course, when offered, is a one-time offering on an area of special interest that will vary. NOTE: Open to graduate students as an elective. NOTE: Open to graduate students as an elective. Any substitution as a Concentration or Major course must have Dean Approval through your academic advisor.
Course ID: 3472
|
This course is an opportunity for Military Studies students to pursue an independent research project or examine a specific area of history under the mentorship of a single professor. Students must complete 24 credits of study before taking this course. The course will typically involve a major research paper; there will be no examination. Students will submit a proposal prior to the start of the project, and a rough draft of the paper, both of which will count toward the final grade. Prerequisite: University approval and Upper Level standing. Prior to registering, students should first contact the professor with whom they wish to mentor their independent study, coordinate an agreement on the grading requirements, and then NOTIFY their academic advisor with the name of their professor.
This concentration is for students who seek an understanding of the principles, theory, and practices of strategy and leadership from historical and contemporary perspectives. This program provides students with the opportunity to focus on strategic leadership lessons learned under military, civil-military, and government settings and conditions. With critical analytical thinking skills, students can apply the classic strategies, tactics, and teachings of the great military philosophers and leaders to key national strategic issues and international concerns that are relevant in modern times.
Objectives:
Traces the principles, theory, and practices of strategy and leadership from historical and contemporary perspectives with a focus on strategic leadership lessons learned under military, civil-military, and government settings and conditions. Also teaches critical analytical thinking skills needed to apply classic strategies, tactics, and teachings of great military philosophers and leaders to key national strategic issues and international concerns.
Must take all courses for this section.
Course ID: 4726
|
This course provides an understanding of strategic leadership as applied to military and civilian aspects of government. Through a broad examination of strategic leadership principles and theories, and relevant case studies, students explore the interaction of strategic leaders with the media, civil society, and the nation’s political leaders. Students learn how successful strategic leaders have used transformational leadership skills to innovate, motivate, and transform people and enterprises. (Prerequisites: NSEC500 or MILS500)
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10/30/23 - 03/29/24 | 04/01/24 - 05/26/24 | Spring 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3275
|
This course examines doctrinal aspects of command and control through a study of joint warfare theory in the current Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) curriculum. Emphasis is on Joint Vision, Joint Expeditionary Task Forces, Joint Air Support, and Accelerated Cumulative Warfare. Students use the Joint Military Operations Historical Collection series to explore antecedents to modern applications from the Battle of Vicksburg to Operation Uphold Democracy.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
| 03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3219
|
This course considers the nature of future military conflict, the history of future war doctrine, and the impact of current conflict on the conceptualization of the "next war." Students examine current, past, and future low-intensity as well as high-intensity conflicts, and the appropriate use of military force in the power projection role to influence a diplomatic resolution to a conflict. Rogue nations, and related cultural clashes, and religious factors are related to planning for future war.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11/27/23 - 05/03/24 | 05/06/24 - 06/30/24 | Spring 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3492
|
This course will examine the implications of rising world-wide economic interdependence upon relevant aspects of U.S. national security policy. The phenomenon of globalization will be analyzed from an economic standpoint and related security issues, such as the effectiveness of sanctions, the ability to regulate commerce in weapons and technology, and the changing global balance in military capabilities will be considered in this context.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11/27/23 - 05/03/24 | 05/06/24 - 06/30/24 | Spring 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Choose 3 credit hours from this section.
Course ID: 3255
|
This course analyzes selected American campaigns and battles in order to gain an understanding of the nature and conduct of war at the strategic, operational, and tactical levels. Using proven methodologies, students study the challenges of diplomacy, leadership, strategy, operations, tactics, logistics, as well as issues of command and control that always confront commanders and staff officers on campaign and during battle. By analyzing past campaigns and battles, students will sharpen their analytical skills and gain a greater appreciation of the value of military history.
Course ID: 3240
|
This course examines the history and mission of United States special operations forces and roles within operational and tactical environments. Students explore special operations doctrine and tactics from past to present in the global war on terror. Students compare and contrast the use of special operations forces for pre-conflict, operations, and post-conflict scenarios in Afghanistan, Iraq, and the Philippines.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11/27/23 - 05/03/24 | 05/06/24 - 06/30/24 | Spring 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3220
|
This course is a critical analysis of the origins and structures of insurgency and revolution. Various theories and analyses are presented and tested against the historical record. Students assess how these ideas have assisted or hindered the study of and interaction with specific groups of insurgents and revolutionaries. Special emphasis is on revolutionary movements as represented by the Bolsheviks, the Chinese Communists, the Viet Minh/Viet Cong, and militant Islamist insurgents.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10/30/23 - 03/29/24 | 04/01/24 - 05/26/24 | Spring 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3224
|
This course is a study of militant foreign ethnic/religious groups not outwardly affiliated with a sovereign state. Students address specific individuals and groups as case studies in order to draw out the implications and principles associated with actual non-state military, terrorist, events and actions. Focus is on the individuals and cells that carry out the military and terrorist plans to further insurgencies and revolutions.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10/30/23 - 03/29/24 | 04/01/24 - 05/26/24 | Spring 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3471
|
This course, when offered, is a one-time offering on an area of special interest that will vary. NOTE: Open to graduate students as an elective. NOTE: Open to graduate students as an elective. Any substitution as a Concentration or Major course must have Dean Approval through your academic advisor.
Course ID: 3472
|
This course is an opportunity for Military Studies students to pursue an independent research project or examine a specific area of history under the mentorship of a single professor. Students must complete 24 credits of study before taking this course. The course will typically involve a major research paper; there will be no examination. Students will submit a proposal prior to the start of the project, and a rough draft of the paper, both of which will count toward the final grade. Prerequisite: University approval and Upper Level standing. Prior to registering, students should first contact the professor with whom they wish to mentor their independent study, coordinate an agreement on the grading requirements, and then NOTIFY their academic advisor with the name of their professor.
Course ID: 3475
|
The course will cover the roles, missions, organization, capabilities, unique cultures, and strategic purposes of the President, the Departments of State and Defense, Congress, the National Security Council, the Armed Forces, the Intelligence Community, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Students will also learn how these actors interact to formulate national security strategy. In addition, students will examine some successes and failures of the interagency process and will gain an appreciation of the capabilities, limitations, and organizational cultures of the players in the national security community.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11/27/23 - 05/03/24 | 05/06/24 - 06/30/24 | Spring 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
This concentration provides students with an opportunity to research, study, and write in the field of lrregular Warfare (IW). The program experience includes a detailed analysis of historical, current, and future IW theories and concepts. Students will expand critical thinking and their knowledge of IW methods through an examination of materials on intelligence, international relations, terrorism, criminal activities, cyber warfare, propaganda, and the various levels of armed conflict to include conventional, asymmetric, and irregular warfare. The study of insurgent activities and the implementation of these methods provide an understanding of the nature and motivation of movements which challenge legitimate governance through forms of modem or hybrid warfare.
Objectives:
Upon successful completion of this concentration the student will be able to:
- Diagram the changing nature of Irregular Warfare (IW) in terms of current theory, planning, and implementation.
- Synthesize elements of Irregular Warfare (IW) in historical and contemporary campaigns.
- Analyze emerging theories of Irregular Warfare (IW), through an understanding of varied methods of implementation.
- Evaluate Irregular Warfare (IW) concepts within the geo-political and operating environments.
Must take all courses for this section.
Course ID: 3239
|
This course is an in-depth seminar in asymmetrical warfare in relation to the U.S. military history and operational experience. Students explore the changing nature of asymmetrical warfare in terms of current theory, conjecture, and definition. Key issues of asymmetry and adaptation are assessed in relation to insurgency, counterinsurgency force doctrine, and action-reaction-counteraction cycle. Special emphasis is on the value of approaches that employ innovative tactics, weapons, or technologies across the spectrum of military operations.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11/27/23 - 05/03/24 | 05/06/24 - 06/30/24 | Spring 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3220
|
This course is a critical analysis of the origins and structures of insurgency and revolution. Various theories and analyses are presented and tested against the historical record. Students assess how these ideas have assisted or hindered the study of and interaction with specific groups of insurgents and revolutionaries. Special emphasis is on revolutionary movements as represented by the Bolsheviks, the Chinese Communists, the Viet Minh/Viet Cong, and militant Islamist insurgents.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10/30/23 - 03/29/24 | 04/01/24 - 05/26/24 | Spring 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3224
|
This course is a study of militant foreign ethnic/religious groups not outwardly affiliated with a sovereign state. Students address specific individuals and groups as case studies in order to draw out the implications and principles associated with actual non-state military, terrorist, events and actions. Focus is on the individuals and cells that carry out the military and terrorist plans to further insurgencies and revolutions.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10/30/23 - 03/29/24 | 04/01/24 - 05/26/24 | Spring 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
Choose 6 credit hours from this section.
Course ID: 4825
|
This course will examine various case studies in Foreign Cyber Threats and explore the challenges posed by these threats. Through the review of case studies, students will become familiar with the fact that cyber threats are difficult to assess and mitigate given the existence of malicious actors, multiple motives, different but commonly used attack vectors, the internet as a shared and integrated domain, difficulty in predicting potential attacks and the damaging nature of worst-case scenarios. (Prerequisite: SSGS500)
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3102
|
This course will examine the evolution of intelligence and counterterrorism while analyzing a framework for combating terrorism. This course will focus on terrorism variables that present a problem to international and U.S. national security, suggest solutions, and provide alternatives to current counterterrorism policies. In this course, your studies will focus on a variety of aspects related to terrorism, counterterrorism, to include historical perspectives, analysis of terrorist organizations, and patterns of terrorism. You will be required to study a range of topics related to terrorism. You will read an arrangement of books and articles that will develop a comprehensive understanding of how counterterrorism impacts national security.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11/27/23 - 05/03/24 | 05/06/24 - 06/30/24 | Spring 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3938
|
This course will expose the students to a variety of counter-terrorism intelligence methodologies and analytic tools, and extensive academic, government, policy literature on the challenges, opportunities, and assumptions related to forecasting terrorism. The course will provide students with the analytic capability to understand the types of terrorist threats that are most likely to confront the U.S. and its allies, in addition to challenging students to evaluate the efficacy and impact of prediction-based efforts in counter-terrorism intelligence.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10/30/23 - 03/29/24 | 04/01/24 - 05/26/24 | Spring 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
| 02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3967
|
This course provides an overview of deceptive techniques –how they work and how they can be defeated. It begins by building an understanding of fundamental psychological principles and practices and then taking a look at key information practices. From there, it will look at how some of these practices developed from WWI to the present. Throughout the course, students will be exposed to and will analyze the use of deception and other persuasion techniques in various contexts. These deceptive techniques are illustrated with a series of historical and current case studies, scenarios, and interactive simulations.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10/30/23 - 03/29/24 | 04/01/24 - 05/26/24 | Spring 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
| 02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3560
|
This course examines how the international political system---the patterns of interaction among world political actors---has changed and how some of its fundamental characteristics have resisted change. Students will investigate how the global system works and how the process of globalization is remaking the political and economic world.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10/30/23 - 03/29/24 | 04/01/24 - 05/26/24 | Spring 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 11/27/23 - 05/03/24 | 05/06/24 - 06/30/24 | Spring 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
| 01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3240
|
This course examines the history and mission of United States special operations forces and roles within operational and tactical environments. Students explore special operations doctrine and tactics from past to present in the global war on terror. Students compare and contrast the use of special operations forces for pre-conflict, operations, and post-conflict scenarios in Afghanistan, Iraq, and the Philippines.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11/27/23 - 05/03/24 | 05/06/24 - 06/30/24 | Spring 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3219
|
This course considers the nature of future military conflict, the history of future war doctrine, and the impact of current conflict on the conceptualization of the "next war." Students examine current, past, and future low-intensity as well as high-intensity conflicts, and the appropriate use of military force in the power projection role to influence a diplomatic resolution to a conflict. Rogue nations, and related cultural clashes, and religious factors are related to planning for future war.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11/27/23 - 05/03/24 | 05/06/24 - 06/30/24 | Spring 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3471
|
This course, when offered, is a one-time offering on an area of special interest that will vary. NOTE: Open to graduate students as an elective. NOTE: Open to graduate students as an elective. Any substitution as a Concentration or Major course must have Dean Approval through your academic advisor.
Must take all courses for this section.
Course ID: 3242
|
This course is an in-depth analysis of the characteristics of leadership common to great military leaders. It focuses on those personalities and decision-making skills that are inbred and/or learned by the great leaders. Students compare and contrast the characteristics of great military leaders and choose a specific leader to assess the persona of that individual. Special emphasis is on investigating the biographical literature and what sources reveal about personality and leadership style.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11/27/23 - 05/03/24 | 05/06/24 - 06/30/24 | Spring 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3829
|
This course addresses the application of strategy and process of the making of strategy, both of which deal with the preparation and use of military power to serve the ends of politics. The treatment is chronological, as determined by the various case studies, and two themes run throughout: the relationship of strategy and the strategic level of war to other levels of war, especially policy and the political level of war; and the difficulty inherent in the process of the making of strategy. Note: Not available for students who have previously taken MILS520.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10/30/23 - 03/29/24 | 04/01/24 - 05/26/24 | Spring 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 11/27/23 - 05/03/24 | 05/06/24 - 06/30/24 | Spring 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
| 01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3463
|
This course is a comprehensive study that explores the strategic, operational, and tactical dimensions of war through an examination of military theory in the context of historical experience. Purpose is to promote critical thinking about war based on the clash of ideas and critical inquiry and analysis. Toward that end, students examine some of the masters in the art of war in terms of their ideas and influence regarding strategy, tactics, and especially operational art.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
| 03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 3266
|
This course covers the theory and practice of joint warfare, by examining major conflicts since the mid-19th and joint warfare in the 1980s and 1990s. Students assess, through case studies, the impact of the Goldwater-Nichols Act of 1986 on the Department of Defense and U.S. national security strategy.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11/27/23 - 05/03/24 | 05/06/24 - 06/30/24 | Spring 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4891
|
This course provides basic research methods skills for addressing problems and issues specific to the programs within the School of Security and Global Studies (SSGS). The course covers four basic approaches to social research including experimentation, survey research, field research, and the use of available data. Students will gain foundational knowledge in research planning, design, methodology, data collection, and analysis. This course prepares students for advanced research methods. Students in SSGS graduate studies are expected to be completely familiar with Turabian and APA writing styles. If you do not possess copies of these manuals, here is a link to the library, https://www.apus.edu/apus-library/resources-services/Writing/writing-center.html, specific to writing basics, that has quick style guides in use within SSGS. Purchase of the most recent writing guide in use in your program is highly recommended. If you are unsure what writing style is in use in your program, consult with your academic advisor.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10/30/23 - 03/29/24 | 04/01/24 - 05/26/24 | Spring 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 11/27/23 - 05/03/24 | 05/06/24 - 06/30/24 | Spring 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 | Spring 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
| 01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 | Summer 2024 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 | Summer 2024 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 | Summer 2024 Session D | 8 Week session |
Select any courses that have not been used to fulfill major requirements. Credits applied toward a minor or certificate in an unrelated field may be used to fulfill elective credit for the major.
Must take all courses for this section.
Course ID: 3902
|
Preparation for the Master of Arts in Military Studies Capstone (Thesis) seminar begins on day one of a student's graduate program of study. The theories, research methods and analytical skills, and substantive knowledge obtained through their master's curriculum provide the basis for the thesis project. Students are required to develop primary and secondary source materials on the research topic and address the writing requirements as described in the syllabus and classroom assignments. The thesis proposal must provide a clear description of a question or problem and a proposed method of answering the question or solving the problem. Guidance on the format of the research seminar proposal and a sample proposal are contained in the APUS Thesis Manual. NOTE: This course may not be taken until all other courses are COMPLETED and student has a 3.0 GPA. THIS COURSE IS 16 WEEKS.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10/30/23 - 03/29/24 | 04/01/24 - 07/21/24 | Spring 2024 Session A | 16 Week session |
| 11/27/23 - 05/03/24 | 05/06/24 - 08/25/24 | Spring 2024 Session K | 16 Week session |
| 12/25/23 - 05/31/24 | 06/03/24 - 09/22/24 | Spring 2024 Session C | 16 Week session |
| 01/29/24 - 06/28/24 | 07/01/24 - 10/20/24 | Summer 2024 Session A | 16 Week session |
| 02/26/24 - 08/02/24 | 08/05/24 - 11/24/24 | Summer 2024 Session K | 16 Week session |
| 03/25/24 - 08/30/24 | 09/02/24 - 12/22/24 | Summer 2024 Session C | 16 Week session |
Admission Requirements
- All APU master's degree/graduate certificate programs require a bachelor’s degree (or higher) from an institution whose accreditation is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA®).
- Please read all graduate admission requirements before applying to this program and be prepared to submit the required documentation.
- There is no fee to complete the APU admission application for this program. View steps to apply.
CHEA® is a registered trademark of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
Materials Cost
Most courses in this program use Open Educational Resources (OER). These teaching, learning, and research materials are made available to you at no cost, meaning there are minimal book costs associated with earning this degree.
Technology fee: $85 per course
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1The University reserves the right to accept or deny credits according to policies outlined on our University website. Please see the University’s transfer credit policy webpage for complete information.
*Cost Per Credit Hour
American Public University's Preferred Military Rate is $250 per credit hour for all undergraduate and master's-level courses. This rate is available to all U.S. active-duty servicemembers, National Guard members, Reservists, and military families, including parents, spouses, legal partners, siblings, and dependents.
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