Master of Science in Strategy in Security and Defense Technologies
Advance your career in national defense with Purdue University’s Master of Science (MS) in Strategy in Security and Defense Technologies. Designed for military, government, and defense professionals, this 100% online program blends strategy, technology, and leadership to prepare you for critical roles in security and defense innovation.
Online Programs
Master of Science in Strategy in Security and Defense Technologies
Advance your career in national defense with Purdue University’s online Master of Science (MS) in Strategy in Security and Defense Technologies. Designed for military, government, and defense professionals, this 100% online program blends strategy, technology, and leadership to prepare you for critical roles in security and defense innovation.
Online Master of Science in Strategy in Security and Defense Technologies Overview
The Master of Science in Strategy in Security and Defense Technologies aligns with Purdue’s FORCES Initiative, combining policy, technology, and social science to help students become leaders in defense innovation and homeland security preparedness. You’ll learn how to apply advanced analytical tools and ethical frameworks to solve modern national security challenges and strengthen defense operations and for military and federal employees, the program offers an exclusive rate of $250 per credit hour.*
This program also offers a pathway for students who begin with the Strategic Defense Technologies Graduate Certificate, which can later be applied toward the full master’s degree.
Service Recognition
Purdue University proudly holds Indiana’s highest distinction for supporting service members — the Tier 1 Collegiate Purple Star of Indiana Award. From application to graduation, Purdue provides personalized support for veterans, service members, and military families, helping them translate their service experience into leadership success.
Named among the best online master’s programs for military service members by Forbes in 2026, Purdue’s program equips learners with the skills to navigate evolving threats, analyze emerging technologies, and lead in complex defense environments. Its fully online format offers flexibility for active-duty personnel and working professionals.
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Plan Your Path
The cost of attending Purdue varies depending on where you choose to live, enrollment in a specific program or college, food and travel expenses, and other variables. The Office of the Bursar website shows estimated costs for the current aid year for students by semester and academic year. These amounts are used in determining a student’s estimated eligibility for financial aid. You can also use our tuition calculator to estimate tuition costs.
*Eligibility for this tuition benefit is available to employees of the United States Federal Government, including members of the uniformed services and civilian employees of federal departments or agencies.
More information on courses and faculty can be found at the program website.
Train to lead through strategy, national security and innovation.
This master’s degree program is designed to serve two key goals:
- Equip the next generation of military and civilian leaders with the interdisciplinary skills needed to integrate defense technologies and policy.
- Provide affordable, high-quality graduate education for veterans, service members and government professionals seeking career advancement.
- Graduates will be prepared to lead strategic initiatives across defense organizations, government agencies and private-sector industries focused on national and international security. There are 30 credits in this degree program, including 18 credits of required core courses and an additional 6 credits of selective required core courses.
30 credits in this degree program, including 18 credits of required core courses, 6 credit hours from the elective list and an additional 6 credits of selective required core courses.
- Technology, War and Strategy
- Grand Challenges in Defense Engineering
- Ethical Reasoning in Technology
- Legislative Policy and Defense Technologies
- Strategic Foresight and Leadership
- Strategy for Security and Defense Technologies Capstone
- Space Strategy
- Cyber Strategy
- Strategic Intelligence
- Artificial Intelligence Organizational Transformation in Security and Defense
- Data and AI Storytelling
- Game Theory Strategy and Defense
30 credits in this degree program, including 18 credits of required core courses, 6 credit hours from the elective list and an additional 6 credits of selective required core courses.
Admissions decisions are based on individual experience and overall fit with the program. Your application must be fully submitted with all materials in order to be reviewed and considered for admission.
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- 2+ years of professional experience (preferred, not required)
- No GRE or GMAT required
Source: LightcastTM (2025). Unique job postings for July 2024-25. Projected growth for years 2019-2029.
Top Job Titles
Strategy in security and defense technologies prepares professionals for roles that blend policy, technology, and operational planning in high-impact security environments. These include National Security and Defense Program Project Manager, Homeland Security Analyst, and Policy or Legislative Analyst, each supporting strategic decision-making and national security initiatives. Additionally, Federal Law Enforcement Officer and Cyber Strategy Specialist play critical roles in protecting infrastructure, shaping security policy, and addressing emerging threats in an evolving defense landscape.
Top Industries
Several major industries offer strong career opportunities for professionals specializing in strategy in security and defense technologies. These include U.S. Military Branches and Federal and State Security Agencies, both of which rely on strategic expertise to support national defense and public safety missions. Additionally, Defense and Aerospace Industries, Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and Intelligence and Policy Analysis depend on these professionals to guide planning, assess threats, and develop effective security strategies across complex environments.
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