Bridging Peacebuilding and Global Security
The Kroc School of Peace Studies at the University of San Diego is thrilled to announce a transformative addition to our Master of Science in Conflict Management and Resolution (MS-CMR) and Master of Arts in Peace and Justice (MAPJ) programs: the Security Studies concentration. Designed to tackle international security's complex and rapidly evolving challenges, this optional concentration provides a clear pathway for students in MAPJ and MSCMR programs to graduate with a cutting-edge concentration in global security studies. It also offers an exciting option to spend some of your time studying in Madrid, Spain.
With limited seats available, students interested in joining the inaugural Fall 2025 cohort are encouraged to express interest early.
"We are entering an era where violence transcends borders and evolves in unprecedented ways. Equipping early and mid-career professionals with the analytical and practical skills to address these emerging challenges is more critical than ever. The Security Studies concentration in our MSCMR and MAPJ programs reflects the Kroc School's commitment to cutting-edge, interdisciplinary, and applied education. It empowers students to bridge peacebuilding and global security studies, preparing them to tackle complex and evolving threats with expertise and impact," said Dr. Philip Gamaghelyan, Associate Professor and Director of the MSCMR Program.
Global Collaboration
Offered in partnership with Comillas Pontifical University in Madrid, Spain, the Security Studies concentration combines foundational theories in international relations, peace studies, and security studies with hands-on tools and real-world applications. This collaboration offers Kroc School students a seamless way to experience global education while spending as little as two weeks per semester in San Diego or Madrid.
Comillas Pontifical University in Madrid, Spain
Key Learning Outcomes
The concentration prepares students to analyze and respond to emerging threats such as cyberattacks, influence operations, diplomatic, and economic sabotage, often called "grey zone" conflicts. Students will also develop expertise in conflict areas surrounding topics of cyber espionage, information warfare, and strategies employed in interstate and proxy conflicts.
Flexible and Immersive Curriculum
Students pursuing the Security Studies concentration will complete 9 units of specialized coursework, including:
- KROC 594-06: International Peace & Security (offered in San Diego) Explore the dynamics of international conflict and peace, covering foundational and contemporary theories in international relations, peace, and security studies
- KROC 594-11: Hybrid Wars (intensive, Madrid) Examine the complexities of hybrid warfare, including information warfare, economic coercion, and cyber activities, and their impact on global security
- KROC 594-12: Cyberspace and Cybersecurity (intensive, Madrid) Gain foundational knowledge in cybersecurity, focusing on cyber methodologies, architectures, and the role of cybersecurity in national security
The program’s two-week intensive in Madrid, Spain provides students with the opportunity to engage with faculty and peers in a global context. MSCMR students benefit from this hybrid approach, ensuring they can graduate while balancing other commitments.
“The Security Studies concentration represents the Kroc School's commitment to preparing leaders who can navigate the complexities of the most deadly forms of global conflicts. By bridging peacebuilding and security studies, we are equipping our students with the knowledge and tools they need to foster stability and address emerging threats in a rapidly changing world,” said Kroc School Dean, Dr. Darren Kew.
This concentration is ideal for professionals and students interested in careers in international organizations, cybersecurity, intelligence, military strategy, or conflict resolution. By combining advanced theoretical knowledge with hands-on learning, students will graduate prepared to lead in addressing some of the most pressing security issues of our time.
For more details about the MAPJ or MSCMR programs and the new Security Studies concentration, visit our website here, or reach out to our admissions team here.
Get Started in Peace and Security: Apply Today
Apply now to join the next generation of global leaders in conflict management and resolution. Applications are currently open for the upcoming academic year.
