Online Doctor of Strategic Intelligence (DSI)

Required Documentation

Upon completion of the application and payment of the non-refundable $100.00 application fee, you will be assigned a student ID. This will allow you to complete your admissions package, which consists of the following required documentation:

1. Prior Education
   Your master’s degree in a closely related discipline with a minimum GPA of 3.0 is required. Related disciplines include: Intelligence Studies; Military Studies; International/Global Studies; Homeland Security; Cybersecurity; National Security; Terrorism Studies; Public Administration/Public Policy. Other degrees and doctoral experience may be considered. Your official transcript verifying the award of your master’s degree must be sent from the issuing institution in sealed envelopes or by official electronic copy (such as National Student Clearinghouse transcript). No faxed or unsealed transcripts will be accepted.
2. Professional Practice
   You must have 3-5 years work experience in the strategic intelligence field or closely related field.
3. CV or Resume
   Must include work history, professional accomplishments, service to the profession, and any teaching and research experience.
4. English Proficiency
   Applicants from a country whose native language is not English (regardless of current residence) must provide proof of English proficiency.
5. Three References
   Choose three references from colleagues or professors with whom you have current or recent (within the past 3-5 years) professional associations, and ask them to complete the doctoral reference form. Your references will assess your professional accomplishments, leadership in the discipline, written and verbal communication skills, service activities, and personal strengths necessary for successful completion of a doctoral program.
6. Admission Essay
   In 750-1200 words, explain why you are applying to this doctoral program. Please discuss your rationale for earning a doctorate in this field and include specific examples for how this degree will help you obtain your long-term academic and professional career goals. Provide examples of how current issues in this field inform your decisions, making sure to include current relevant literature and cite using Chicago/Turabian style.
7. Photo ID
   Submit a legible color copy of your valid government-issued photo ID.

Program Format & Length

This program is offered in cohorts of 30 students or less, and is taught predominantly online. You may continue working in your field during your studies, but the curriculum workload is considered full time, and you will need to be excused from your professional work responsibilities while attending the required annual residences.

Plan to spend at least 25-30 hours per week on your studies. Completion of the program requires 8 terms plus your dissertation. Each 16-week term includes:

• 8-week course (3 credits)
• 8-week course (3 credits)
• 16-week course (1 credit)

You will take all courses together with your cohort until year two when you choose your electives. Research will be conducted individually, but there will be opportunities for peer feedback and group discussion of research methods.