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  2. Graduate Certificates

Nuclear Deterrence Graduate Certificate

Gain understanding of the history and contemporary issues related to nuclear deterrence, security, nonproliferation, and arms control. Through this professional graduate certificate—developed in consultation with the US Air Force—you build expertise in deterrence theory and policy to help advance a career in the military, government, or an international organization.

Key learning outcomes

  • Understanding of nuclear deterrence theory, the history of nuclear weapon development and proliferation, and the cold war’s impact on the arms race.   
  • Knowledge of the types and effects of the various types of delivery systems and nuclear arms, such as intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and submarine-launched ballistic missiles.
  • Insight into past and current international relations’ frameworks, nuclear security policies in the US and other nation–states in the post-Cold War era, and the changing context of global conflict. 

Getting started

No application is required. You simply register for graduate courses during our fall, spring, or summer registration periods. 

Earning the Certificate

To meet the requirements for the certificate, you must:

  • Complete four certificate courses for graduate credit.
  • Earn at least a B grade in each course.
  • Complete the courses within three years.

Learn more about pursuing a certificate and the process of requesting your certificate.

Certificate Courses

The professional graduate certificate in Nuclear Deterrence requires four courses:

  • History of the Cold War (required)
  • Nuclear Weapons and International Security (required)
  • Origins and Evolution of Deterrence Theory (required)
  • International security elective (choose one course from select group)

Recommended Course Path: We recommend completing the three required courses in the order listed above, when possible. Your elective course may be taken at any point in your certificate studies.

Find Certificate Courses 

Related Degrees

If you’re also considering a master’s degree, select certificate courses can be counted toward a related degree field of study.

Government Degree Program

Gain a deeper understanding of the complex role of governmental organizations within society.

Learn more about Government Degree Program

International Relations Degree Program

Gain critical insight into today’s pressing global issues and a deep understanding of the factors influencing relationships between nation-states and supranational organizations.

Learn more about International Relations Degree Program

Related Certificates

International Security Graduate Certificate

Explore the complex forces at play in global conflicts

Learn more about International Security Graduate Certificate

International Relations Graduate Certificate

Grow your understanding of the relationships between nations, as well as the roles and actors within geopolitical security, economics, and international cooperation.

Learn more about International Relations Graduate Certificate

 

2020-21 Registration

Registration for the spring term is open until Jan. 21. Registration for the January term is now closed.   

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Have a question?

Our Enrollment Services team can answer questions about our certificates.

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Certificate at a Glance

Required Courses

4

Number of courses for this certificate.

Start browsing courses

Average Cost

$11,600

Cost of completing the certificate courses, at current tuition rates.

Time Investment

1.5

Number of years, on average, it takes to complete this certificate. You may take up to three years.

Learn more about requirements

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