Online Master of Science
Strategy in Security & Defense Technologies
Leaders in today’s national security environment must navigate rapid technological change, evolving threats and complex policy challenges. Purdue University’s online Master of Science in Strategy in Security and Defense Technologies prepares military, government and industry professionals to lead at the intersection of strategy, technology and national defense. This interdisciplinary program builds advanced analytical, leadership and decision-making skills to help guide organizations in high-stakes security environments.
Are you ready to Be a leader in security, strategy and defense technologies?
As a security and defense strategist, you will play a critical role in shaping decisions that impact national security, organizational readiness and mission success. Whether you serve in uniform, as a civilian government professional or in the defense industry, this program helps you take the next step in your leadership journey with confidence.
Experience the Purdue difference in your online master’s in strategy and defense technologies:
- Interdisciplinary curriculum: Integrate strategy, policy, ethics and emerging defense technologies into your coursework.
- Mission-driven focus: Apply learning to real-world national security challenges.
- Expert network: Learn alongside peers and faculty with deep defense and policy expertise.
- Flexible learning: Complete coursework 100% online.
Strategy in Security & Defense Technologies Quick Program Facts
*Eligibility for this tuition benefit is available to employees of the U.S. federal government, including members of the uniformed services and civilian employees of federal departments or agencies.
Program overview
The online Master of Science in Strategy in Security and Defense Technologies aligns with Purdue’s FORCES Initiative, combining policy, technology and social science to prepare leaders for defense innovation and homeland security preparedness. Students learn to evaluate emerging technologies, apply ethical frameworks, analyze strategic risk and translate complex information into actionable strategy.
The program also offers a pathway for students who begin with the Graduate Certificate in Strategic Defense Technologies and later apply those credits toward the full master’s degree.
Service recognition
Empowering Military, Veteran, and Military-Connected Students at Purdue University
Purdue University proudly holds Indiana’s highest distinction for supporting service members, the Tier 1 Collegiate Purple Star of Indiana Award. Purdue provides personalized support for veterans, service members and military families from application through graduation.
Who should enroll in the online master’s program
This program is designed for early-, mid- and senior-career professionals seeking leadership roles in national security and defense environments, including:
- Active-duty military and veterans
- Department of Defense civilians and federal employees
- Defense contractors and industry professionals
- Cybersecurity and intelligence analysts
- Policy and legislative professionals
- Technology leaders supporting security missions
- Homeland security and emergency management professionals
Learning objectives
Graduates of this program will be able to:
- Analyze how emerging technologies shape military strategy and national security.
- Apply systems thinking and strategic foresight to complex security environments.
- Evaluate cyber, space and AI domains through a strategic lens.
- Integrate policy, ethics and governance into technology-driven decisions.
- Lead organizations through uncertainty, risk and change.
- Communicate strategic insights to technical and nontechnical stakeholders.
Our Faculty
Recognized Faculty and Researchers
The master’s program and its graduate certificates are taught by nationally recognized faculty and researchers in defense strategy, technology and policy. The program is supported by Purdue’s FORCES Initiative.
“As security challenges evolve alongside rapid technological change, leaders must be prepared to connect policy, strategy and innovation. This program equips professionals with the strategic thinking and leadership skills required to succeed in high-stakes environments.”
Program Director – Dr. Sorin Adam Matei is director of the Strategic Defense Technologies program and a professor of communication in the Brian Lamb School of Communication.
FAQs
The master’s in defense technology is uniquely interdisciplinary, bridging technology, national security, policy and strategy. Unlike public policy programs that focus primarily on governance, cybersecurity programs that focus narrowly on IT security or business programs centered on management, this degree is designed to help students understand how emerging technologies are developed, evaluated and deployed in defense and national security environments. Students gain a systems-level view of technology, acquisition, strategy, and real-world application in government and defense sectors.
Courses are delivered in a 100% online, asynchronous format designed for working professionals, military personnel and those balancing multiple responsibilities. You’ll engage with course videos, curated readings, discussions, case studies, and applied projects designed to connect theory with real-world practice.
The course content is based on a four-step thinking process — Read, Watch, Reflect, Practice, Assess. Each module guides students through active reading, reflection, applied practice and assessment. Every step connects directly to learning outcomes and is reinforced through action-based activities.
Most students should expect to spend 15-20 hours per week per course, depending on their background and course load. Time is typically spent watching lectures, completing readings, participating in discussions and working on applied assignments.
Yes. Approved graduate certificates can be applied toward the master’s in defense technology, allowing you to build credentials along the way and apply completed coursework directly to your degree if you are admitted to the master’s program.
Your diploma will state Master of Science and will not indicate that the program was completed online. It is the same Purdue University diploma awarded to West Lafayette on-campus students.
Your transcript will list your major as Strategy in Security and Defense Technologies.
The program offers three start dates throughout the year, giving you flexibility to begin when it works best for your schedule.
Most students complete the program in 18-24 months, depending on course load and whether they attend part-time or full-time. The flexible structure allows you to progress at a pace that fits your professional and personal commitments.