Bachelor of Arts
National Security, Intelligence and Terrorism Studies
Build the knowledge and judgment needed to navigate complex security challenges and support public safety.
Prepare for a Career in National Security
Study Threats from Every Angle
Examine terrorism, intelligence, homeland security, foreign policy, emergency management and threat assessment.
Protect People, Institutions and National Interests
Develop the judgment to assess risks and respond to complex security challenges.
Apply Intelligence in Real World Settings
Strengthen your research, analysis and communication skills for careers in intelligence, security and law enforcement.
Program Highlights
The national security, intelligence and terrorism studies major takes a broad view of American national security policy and security issues. The program focuses on the workings of American political and governmental processes, national security and the intelligence community, while emphasizing career skills, research methods, critical thinking and professional communication.
Students examine the historical and cultural context behind the security threats facing the United States at home and abroad. They also study how the United States uses the instruments of national power to protect national interests and respond to global and domestic challenges. This approach helps students understand both the policy side and the practical side of national security work.
The online format is designed to expand access for students who need greater flexibility, including working professionals, current government employees and those preparing to pursue careers in federal, state or local agencies.
The demand for well-educated professionals in national security, intelligence and related fields continues to grow. Federal, state and local agencies need individuals who can think critically, analyze threats, communicate clearly and act with sound judgment in complex environments.
Tiffin University developed the Bachelor of Arts in National Security, Intelligence and Terrorism Studies to help meet those needs. Graduates will be prepared with practical, real-world applications for careers with the military, Department of Homeland Security, CIA, FBI, Department of Defense, Department of State, U.S. Secret Service, U.S. Marshals and state or local law enforcement agencies.
Preparing You for the Real World
The online national security, intelligence and terrorism studies program is designed to reflect the realities of the field. Coursework emphasizes practical application in areas such as homeland security, intelligence studies, foreign policy, terrorism, emergency management and threat assessment. Students learn how to analyze security problems, evaluate threats and communicate solutions within political, legal and policy frameworks.
Because national security is a field shaped by current events and emerging risks, students are encouraged to engage with real-world issues as they develop. Through written analysis, research, discussion and applied assignments, they build the habits of mind needed to work in settings where information, judgment and adaptability matter.
A Practical, Professional Education
As a student in the program, you will build knowledge and skills in areas such as:
- Homeland security and emergency management
- Intelligence studies and intelligence analysis
- National security policy and foreign policy
- Terrorism and counterintelligence
- Threat assessment and critical infrastructure protection
- Ethics in criminal justice and security
- Psychology of terrorism
- Transnational and unconventional threats
- Apply reasoning skills and professional behavior appropriate for government and security-related careers
- Understand the historical and cultural context behind current security threats facing the United States
- Evaluate domestic and international terrorism threats, homeland security risks and threats to intelligence and intellectual property
- Analyze complex national security problems and communicate solutions within political, legal and policy frameworks
- Develop critical thinking, problem-solving and intelligence analysis skills
Active, Experiential Learning
The online format gives students the flexibility to complete their coursework while still engaging deeply with the material. Throughout the program, students complete assignments and projects that emphasize analysis, professional writing, critical thinking and applied problem-solving.
Students also complete a required internship, which helps connect classroom learning to professional environments. In the capstone course, students bring together what they have learned across the program to examine complex security challenges and present informed analysis and solutions.
Format & Sample Courses
FORMAT
Online – Offered in two terms per semester starting in January, March, May, July, August and October
SAMPLE COURSES
ENF 154 Homeland Security Overview – This course introduces the foundations of homeland security and the structures created to protect the United States from domestic and international threats. Students examine the roles of agencies, policy frameworks and current issues affecting homeland security.
POL 225 Introduction to Intelligence Studies – Students explore the purpose and function of intelligence in national security operations. The course examines intelligence institutions, the intelligence cycle and the role intelligence plays in domestic and foreign policy decision-making.
ENF 240 Critical Infrastructure Protection – This course focuses on the systems and assets essential to public safety, national security and economic stability. Students study threats to critical infrastructure and the strategies used to protect key sectors from disruption or attack.
FOR 310 Threat Assessment – Students gain an overview of threat assessment and threat management across a variety of settings. The course introduces major models, legal responses and practical approaches to identifying and addressing potential threats.
PSY 344 Psychology of Terrorism – This course examines the psychological dimensions of terrorism and extremist behavior. Students explore factors that influence radicalization, motivation and the broader impact of terrorism on individuals and societies.
Career Opportunities
National security and intelligence professionals are needed across government, law enforcement and related security fields. Graduates of this program may pursue careers that involve analysis, public protection, intelligence support, policy and security operations.
Careers
- CIA
- FBI
- Department of Defense
- Department of State
- U.S. Secret Service
- U.S. Marshals
- Department of Homeland Security
- Military and defense-related roles
- State and local law enforcement agencies
- Intelligence analyst
- Threat assessment and security-related roles
Graduate School
Students who complete the BA in National Security, Intelligence and Terrorism Studies may also choose to continue their education at the graduate level. The program provides a strong foundation for advanced study in criminal justice, intelligence, national security, public administration and related fields. Learn more about our online master’s programs.
BA National Security, Intelligence and Terrorism Studies FAQ
What is national security, intelligence and terrorism studies?
National security, intelligence and terrorism studies is an interdisciplinary field focused on understanding security threats, intelligence processes and government responses to domestic and international challenges. It examines how institutions work to protect national interests and public safety.
What is a bachelor of Arts in national security, intelligence and terrorism studies?
A bachelor’s degree in national security, intelligence and terrorism studies prepares students to analyze security threats, understand intelligence and policy processes and evaluate complex issues related to national and international security. Students build knowledge that can support careers in intelligence, homeland security, law enforcement and government.
What can You do with a degree in national security, intelligence and terrorism studies?
With a degree in national security, intelligence and terrorism studies, graduates may pursue careers in intelligence, homeland security, federal service, law enforcement and threat assessment. The program is designed to help prepare students for roles connected to agencies such as the military, Department of Homeland Security, CIA, FBI, Department of Defense, Department of State, U.S. Secret Service and U.S. Marshals.