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The Master of Arts in International and Civil Security at Khalifa University equips students with a deep understanding of modern security challenges, including international conflict, terrorism, civil protection, and crisis management. Designed for graduates and working professionals, the program blends academic insight with practical relevance, preparing students for strategic roles in security, policy, and government sectors.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1 – Core Foundations
In the first year, students develop a strong grounding in security studies through core modules such as Introduction to International Relations and Security Issues and Introduction to Civil Security, which explore global security dynamics and civil protection systems. Courses like Social Science Research Methods and Regional Security and the Terrorist Threat strengthen analytical and research skills while examining contemporary regional and transnational security challenges.
Year 2 – Electives and Specialisation
During the second year, students tailor their learning through electives aligned with either civil security or regional security interests. Subjects such as Technology and Civil Security, Creating Integrated Civil Security, Globalization and Middle East Security, and Regional Security Challenges and Policy Options allow students to focus on policy formulation, technological risks, and region-specific security strategies.
Year 3 – Research and Thesis
The final stage of the program focuses on independent research, beginning with the Thesis Workshop and culminating in the Master’s Thesis. This research project enables students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world security issues, develop original analysis, and demonstrate advanced academic and professional competence.
Focus Areas
International security and geopolitics, civil security and crisis management, regional security studies, security policy and research methods
Learning Outcomes
Advanced understanding of international and civil security environments, strong research and analytical capabilities, ability to evaluate security policies and emerging threats, effective communication of complex security issues
Professional Alignment (Accreditation)
The program is officially accredited by the UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research through the Commission for Academic Accreditation.
Reputation (Employability and Recognition)
Khalifa University is recognised as one of the UAE’s leading research-focused institutions, with strong links to government and strategic sectors, enhancing graduate employability in security, defence, and policy-related careers.
Students in the Master of Arts in International and Civil Security at Khalifa University gain practical, real-world insight by engaging directly with contemporary security challenges through research, expert interaction, and applied academic work. Delivered through the Institute of International and Civil Security, the program emphasizes hands-on learning via seminars, workshops, and research activities that expose students to real policy debates, regional security issues, and civil security planning. This approach ensures graduates are not only knowledgeable, but also confident in applying theory to complex security environments.
This experiential approach is reinforced through structured academic and institutional opportunities, including:
Active involvement with the Institute of International and Civil Security, which hosts expert talks, workshops, and academic events that allow students to interact with policymakers, researchers, and practitioners in international and civil security
A research-driven Master’s Thesis, supported by a dedicated Thesis Workshop, where students design, conduct, and present original research addressing real security and policy challenges
Collaborative learning through coursework, including guided discussions, presentations, and peer feedback sessions that strengthen analytical thinking and professional communication
Full access to Khalifa University’s advanced library resources, supporting in-depth research, policy analysis, and access to international academic databases
Opportunities to participate in university-wide academic symposiums and research events, encouraging interdisciplinary exchange and professional networking across security, policy, and research fields
Graduates of the M.A. in International and Civil Security are well prepared to take on strategic and analytical roles where understanding global, regional, and civil security issues is essential. Many alumni go on to work in positions that influence policy, planning, and operational decisions, such as security analyst, policy advisor, civil protection coordinator, or intelligence specialist. With guidance from Khalifa University’s dedicated career support services and the strong academic foundation provided by the program, students are confident in transitioning into meaningful and impactful careers in the security sector:
Career and Alumni Services support provides personalized career guidance, CV and interview preparation, access to job opportunities, and ongoing engagement with employers to help students connect with relevant organisations and recruiters
Employment outcomes show strong career prospects, with a high percentage of graduates securing professional positions in the security and policy sectors shortly after completing the program
Industry engagement and partnerships through the Institute of International and Civil Security allow students to collaborate with government bodies, research institutions, and private organisations, enhancing practical exposure and networking opportunities
Accreditation and long-term value ensure that the degree is recognised in the UAE and respected by employers in civil security, defence, and public policy roles
Graduate outcomes demonstrate that alumni progress into roles within government ministries, police forces, military branches, and national security agencies, where their analytical and strategic skills contribute directly to national and regional security initiatives
Further Academic Progression:
After completing this master’s degree, students have the option to continue their studies with a doctoral program in areas such as international relations, security studies, political science, or public policy. A PhD can lead to advanced research opportunities, academic careers, or senior policy and strategic positions that require deep expertise in security analysis and strategic planning.
Completion of a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with a minimum CGPA of 3.0/4.0 (or equivalent, such as upper second-class honors from a recognized institution).English proficiency requirement: TOEFL iBT 91 or equivalent, IELTS 6.5 overall, or 1550 EmSAT English score.Two referee recommendations, a 500–1,000 word statement of purpose, and an admission interview.GRE is recommended for all programs, but no minimum score is required for the M.A. in International and Civil Security; all applicants should attempt all three sections.Applicants with a CGPA of 2.5/4.0 may be considered conditionally and must achieve a minimum 3.0/4.0 CGPA in the first nine credits while meeting program-specific requirements to continue in the program.Applicants with lower English scores (TOEFL 79, IELTS 6.0, or EmSAT 1400) may be conditionally admitted and must reach TOEFL 91, IELTS 6.5, or equivalent by the end of their first semester.Applicants below the required GRE quantitative score may be conditionally admitted and must achieve a minimum score of 150 by the end of the first semester.Security analystpolicy advisercivil protection coordinatorintelligence specialistcounterterrorism specialistregional security consultantgovernment security plannerrisk assessment officermilitary strategy analystnational security adviserresearch fellow in security policyemergency management specialistsecurity operations coordinatorpublic sector security strategist 
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