MSL in National Security and U.S. Foreign Relations Law
Master the legal frameworks that shape U.S. national security, foreign policy, and international relations.
Program Overview
The MSL in National Security and U.S. Foreign Relations Law is a graduate-level professional degree designed for experienced professionals seeking advanced legal and policy expertise in national security, diplomacy, and international affairs. This MSL program is built for working professionals and does not require a JD for admission. Students examine how legal frameworks govern U.S. foreign policy, intelligence operations, counterterrorism, economic sanctions, and international security cooperation. Offered online, on-campus, or in a hybrid format, the program serves professionals in Washington, DC, Maryland, Virginia, and beyond who want to strengthen their expertise in national security law and foreign relations policy.
Program at a Glance
24 Credits
1-2 Years
Program Duration
(Full-Time/Part-Time)
Online,
On-Campus, or Hybrid
Format
June 1, 2026
Fall 2026 Application Deadline
$63,600 + fees
Approximate Tuition
Flexible Format
- Online, on-campus, or hybrid.
- Full-time or part-time.
Use Your Real-World Experience
- No JD Required.
- For professionals with 3+ years of relevant experience.
Gain a Professional Edge
- Build practical skills to navigate national security, diplomacy, and foreign relations challenges.
- Strengthen your ability to assess global risks and support informed policy and strategic decisions.
Curriculum Highlights
The curriculum in the national security and foreign relations law master’s program includes foundational coursework in U.S. law, national security law, and foreign relations law, along with specialized electives exploring global security challenges and international legal frameworks. Students complete 24 credits, including required core courses and elective courses focused on international law, security policy, and regulatory oversight.
Required courses include National Security Law and U.S. Foreign Relations Law, while elective options allow students to explore topics such as economic sanctions, export controls, international human rights law, cybersecurity law, and foreign access to U.S. technology.
| Core Courses | Credits |
|---|---|
| Introduction to U.S. Law and Legal Writing for MSL Students (6950) | 3 credits |
| National Security Law (6870) | 2-3 credits |
| U.S. Foreign Relations Law (6871) | 3 credits |
Elective course options include:
- Export Control and Economic Sanctions
- Information Privacy Law
- Cybersecurity Law and Technology
- Immigration Criminal Enforcement
- Anti-Corruption and Compliance
- Foreign Access to U.S. Technology
- International Law of Human Rights
- Administrative Law
- Public International Law Seminar
How Long Does the Program Take and How Is It Delivered?
The MSL in National Security and U.S. Foreign Relations Law requires 24 credits and can typically be completed in 1–2 years, depending on whether students enroll full-time or part-time. The program is offered in flexible formats—including fully online, on-campus, and hybrid options—allowing working professionals to balance graduate study with career responsibilities.
How Much Does This Degree Cost?
Tuition for the MSL in National Security and U.S. Foreign Relations Law is approximately $63,600, plus applicable university fees. Students complete 24 credits, and tuition is billed per semester based on course enrollment. Additional costs may include university fees and course materials. Prospective students are encouraged to review the most current tuition information and financial aid options available through GW Law.
What Can You Do With a Master’s in National Security and U.S. Foreign Relations Law?
As global security challenges grow more complex, government agencies, international organizations, and private-sector institutions increasingly seek professionals who understand the legal frameworks governing national security and foreign policy. Graduates of the national security law degree program develop the knowledge needed to support policy development, international negotiations, regulatory compliance, and global security strategy. Career paths may include roles such as:
| Occupation | Salary |
|---|---|
| International or foreign policy analyst | $100,949 |
| Compliance officer in the Department of Homeland Security | $98,949 |
| Foreign service officer/specialist | $56,584 |
Source: ZipRecruiter, March 2025
Ready to Advance Your Career in National Security and U.S. Foreign Relations Law?
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is a JD required for this program?
No. A JD is not required. The MSL in National Security and U.S. Foreign Relations Law is designed for experienced professionals with 3+ years of relevant experience who want legal knowledge without becoming attorneys.
- Can I complete this program online?
Yes. The program is available fully online, on-campus, or in a hybrid format. Students may enroll full-time or part-time to accommodate professional responsibilities.
- How long does it take to complete the degree?
The program requires 24 credits and can typically be completed in 1–2 years depending on enrollment status.
- Why study national security and foreign relations law in Washington, DC?
Located in Washington, DC, and accessible to professionals across Maryland and Northern Virginia, the program benefits from proximity to federal agencies, courts, and diplomatic institutions shaping U.S. national security and foreign policy. Students gain access to faculty and professional networks with experience across government, the military, intelligence agencies, and international organizations, providing valuable insight into how national security law and foreign relations policy influence global affairs.
What I valued most was the opportunity to learn from professors who are directly engaged in national security at the government level. Learning from first-hand knowledge professionals was priceless.
Jose Brandon, MSL ’21
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
Contact MSL Admissions: msladmissions
law [dot] gwu [dot] edu (msladmissions[at]law[dot]gwu[dot]edu) | 202.994.7242