University of Denver, Josef Korbel School of Global and Public Affairs
Master of Arts in International Security
Denver, USA
MA
DURATION
2 years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time, Part time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
16 Jan 2026
EARLIEST START DATE
Jan 2026
TUITION FEES
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
Key Summary
Ranked 12th in the world for earning a master’s degree in international relations, Korbel offers an MA in International Security where you'll develop expertise in conflict dynamics and examine the root causes of insecurity, such as extreme nationalism, xenophobia, racism, misogyny, rising authoritarianism, democratic erosion, climate change, and pandemics. You’ll also build an understanding of the role of diplomacy, conflict resolution, peace-keeping, intelligence, and military capability in providing security.
Whether you plan to work in government, international organizations, or the private sector, you’ll gain the skills and knowledge to contribute to a more just and secure world.
Shape your experience
Arrive with a plan, or let your curiosity guide you. Our flexible programs give you the freedom to explore new fields, change directions as your interests evolve, or hone in on a specialized track.
Build a strong foundation
Start with 16 credits of required coursework, designed to ground you in your discipline.
Core courses
- INTS 4091 - Great Issues in International Relations
- INTS 4700 - U.S. Foreign Policy
- INTS 4702 – Emerging Issues in International Security
- INTS 4703 – Foundations of Security
Tailor your degree
Use your 44 elective credits to add specializations, pursue certificates, or take courses abroad based on your interests and goals.
Certificates
- Global Environmental Change & Adaptation
- Global Health Affairs
- Global Justice
- Homeland Security
- Humanitarian Assistance
- Public Diplomacy
- Public Policy
- Religion & International Affairs
- Strategic Intelligence
The Korbel School, a proud member of the APSIA group, is ranked #12 in the world for International Relations master’s programs by Foreign Policy Magazine as of 2024!
Korbel is also proud to be recognized as an R1 institution, a prestigious designation reserved for top-tier research universities in the U.S. This classification highlights our commitment to cutting-edge research, innovation, and academic excellence, offering students opportunities to engage in groundbreaking work across a variety of fields.
Build a lifelong network
Korbel brings together bright minds with big visions for the future. Connect, collaborate, and grow with a diverse community dedicated to the common good.
Engage with leaders shaping our world
Recent speakers include mayors and governors, former secretaries of state, a Nobel Peace Prize winner, prominent journalists, leaders in corporate social responsibility and impact investing, human rights activists, and feminist peace scholars.
Thrive in a dynamic student community
You’ll make friends for a lifetime with peers who bring an incredible range of experiences to the table. Join one of our many student-led groups to collaborate with people from around the world who share your passion for making a difference.
Be part of an active alumni network
Our 7,000+ alumni span the globe and are passionate about opening doors for Korbel graduates. You’ll find them in government roles at all levels, international organizations, NGOs, consulting firms, startups, and major corporations.
90% of Korbel graduate students receive merit aid
Students are eligible for need based aid
Prepare to go far
93% of Korbel graduates are employed, continuing their education, or volunteering/engaging in service within 12 months of graduation.
International Security graduates are in demand
You’ll find them working in governmental, private, and public organizations. They become intelligence analysts, cybersecurity analysts, risk management specialists, counterterrorism analysts, diplomatic security officers, and crisis management specialists.
Where recent alumni make an impact
- State Department
- Department of Homeland Security
- Federal Bureau of Investigation
- Central Intelligence Agency
- Defense Intelligence Agency
- Space Development Agency
- US Department of Justice
- US Department of Defense
Ketevan Chinaradze (MA 23')
MA International Security
Foreign Policy Analyst for The Aspen Institute
Get outside the classroom
Hands-on experience is essential to your success. You’ll find an abundance of opportunities to develop your professional skills and explore career paths.
Apply your knowledge with internships
Build experience across city, state, and national government agencies, international organizations, global NGOs, and the private sector. With guidance from our career coaches, you’ll land positions that align with your skills and interests.
Immerse yourself in simulation exercises
Join one of our simulations for a taste of on-the-ground realities in an interactive environment. From negotiating international conflicts to managing humanitarian crises, these engaging scenarios are a highlight for Korbel students.
Study away to expand your perspective
Korbel students have the opportunity to study in vibrant cities like Rio de Janeiro, Geneva, Vienna, and Washington, D.C. These experiences offer rich firsthand experience and insights, all at no additional tuition cost.
Dive into research that makes a difference
At Korbel, research directly contributes to real-world impact. Many students engage in applied research at our Pardee Institute for International Futures, serving clients like the US government, the United Nations, and the Africa Union.
Enjoy the Denver difference
Balance your graduate work with an active outdoor lifestyle in the Mile-High City. Take advantage of a vibrant art, music, and food scene — while enjoying Colorado’s 300 days of sunshine each year.
Top 3 “Best U.S. Destinations”
Travel Pulse, January 2022
#1 “Most Climate Resilient Cities”
Architectural Digest, July 2023
#1 “Hottest Music Venues in the Country” —
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
Rolling Stone, April 2023
#7 “Top U.S. Cities for Active Lifestyles”
WalletHub, April 2024
Heather Rooke (MA 24’)
MA International Security
Research Specialist for U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission
"Beyond being the best ranked/one of the few true international security specific programs outside of the bear DC area, I chose it because the yearly “Graduate Employment Data Korbel students” report consistently showed really high percentages of students as employed and the reports from the career office showed that a good percentage of students ended up in their goal industry."