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National Security and Foreign Affairs Major

What is a Major in National Security and Foreign Affairs?

The major analyzes the role of diplomacy in the management of world affairs and examines U.S. strategy and foreign policy. You will critically think about the current and future global geopolitical environment, the use of military force, the informational issues that contribute to the implementation of strategy, and counterterrorism and homeland security. We connect theory to practice and provide you with a hands-on, practical approach to analyzing threats that challenge security both at home and abroad.

Why Study National Security and Foreign Affairs at Virginia Tech?

Study at one of only a few universities offering the major with renowned faculty who specialize in national security. We offer broad training in the liberal arts, emphasizing the study of foreign languages. Opportunities to pursue undergraduate research, conduct field studies, and participate in study abroad are available. Many of our students also engage in the Department of State’s Diplomacy Lab Program and Wonk Tank competition.

 
2
Programs to Study in D.C.

 
24
Average Class Size

 
12
Languages to Study

Careers and Further Study

What Can You Do with a major in National Security and Foreign Affairs?

Jobs Held by Our Graduates

  • Customs and Border Patrol Agent
  • Secret Service Agent
  • Military officers
  • Lawyers
  • Government service
  • Law enforcement

Beyond the Classroom

Experiential Learning

Get Involved 

Participate in our active student organizations including (Inter)National and Regional Model UN, International Model NATO, International Model Organization of American States (MOAS), National and Regional Model Arab League, and National Model African Union.

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Get Experience

Internships and cooperative education programs give you an opportunity to receive academic credit for working in a professional setting. Our students complete internships with the U.S. government, international organizations, and national, state, or local administrative agencies. Talk to an advisor who can help you find and secure a meaningful internship opportunity.

 

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Travel and Learn

Although studying abroad isn't required, it can often be a pivotal experience for you. Living in a different country is the best way to understand the differences and similarities between cultures. It allows you to develop personal expertise in a specific national or regional context.

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PSCI Study
Expert Faculty

Our faculty members are productive authors, scholars, and award-winning teachers who are always eager to mentor students on research projects in their field of interest. We have experts on Japan, the European Union, Latin America, the Middle East, Africa, the United Kingdom, and other nations, as well as specialists in topics like international security, citizenship, and human rights. If you'd like some guidance on an undergraduate research project, just ask!

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Bachelor of Arts in International Studies Degree

National Security and Foreign Affairs Major Requirements

  • National Security
  • Foreign Policy and Diplomacy
  • Intelligence Analysis
  • Intelligence and National Security
  • The CIA in Today’s Geopolitical World
  • Global Conflict and War
  • Nuclear Strategy and Politics
  • Terrorism and Counterterrorism
  • Homeland Security

Minor and Elective Hours

Our program gives you the opportunity to build knowledge in another area by pursuing a minor, double major, or cognate.


120 hrs
B.A. International Studies

45 hrs
General Education

57 hrs
Major Requirements

36 hrs
Elective


 

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