"California National Guard ruling may foreshadow battles in Chicago, Baltimore"
Scripps News quoted Laura Dickinson on the National Guard’s role in protecting federal property and officials, but not to engage in law enforcement.
National Security, Cybersecurity, & Foreign Relations Law
The George Washington University Law School’s National Security, Cybersecurity, and Foreign Relations Law program stands at the forefront of legal education in one of the most dynamic and high-stakes fields of law. With unparalleled breadth and depth, the program offers rigorous training on both foundational and emerging issues—from the laws of armed conflict and intelligence oversight to cutting-edge challenges in cybersecurity, surveillance, and technology policy.
Taught by a distinguished faculty of nationally recognized experts and practitioners, students benefit from deep academic insight and real-world experience. The program also boasts a strong track record of alumni success in securing positions across the national security community, including government agencies and private sector roles. Notably, GW Law’s National Security & Cybersecurity LLM program was recently ranked number one in the nation by Cybersecurity Guide, reflecting its leadership and excellence in preparing the next generation of legal professionals to navigate the evolving landscape of national security and technology.
Areas of Study
National Security & U.S. Foreign Relations
This practice area explores the nature and origins of the federal government's foreign relations powers, and U.S. law implementing international law, and the U.S. law of national security and counterterrorism.
National Security & Cybersecurity
This practice area has evolved with the world's increased connectivity through the use of modern technology and cyberspace and the accompanying growing vulnerabilities from physical and cyber threats.
About Us
Learn more about our diverse and experienced National Security, Cybersecurity, and Foreign Relations Law faculty.
Program News
GW Law Hosts Law Firm Partners for Panel on National Security Careers in Law Firms
October 1, 2025
The National Security, Cybersecurity, and Foreign Relations Law Program and the NSLA hosted a “National Security Careers in Law Firms” panel to a full audience.
GW Law Hosts Fall 2025 Veterans Welcome Back Reception
September 24, 2025
On September 4, GW Law’s National Security, Cybersecurity, and Foreign Relations Law Program held its annual Veterans Welcome Back Reception.
GW Law Hosts Fall 2025 JAG Recruiter Panel
September 19, 2025
GW Law’s National Security, Cybersecurity, and Foreign Relations Law Program and the MLS co-hosted the annual JAG recruiter panel earlier this month.
National Security, Foreign Relations, & Cybersecurity News
Upcoming Events
The National Security Law Program holds several events throughout the semester. Please check back for new events.
Faculty in the News
WTOP-FM | Laura Dickinson - August 21, 2025
WTOP-FM spoke to Laura Dickinson about the deployment of the National Guard to DC.
"Could National Guard members deployed to DC be sued?"
Scripps News interviewed Laura Dickinson on how police and National Guard training differs, especially in protecting constitutional rights.
"Trump's DC intervention may be less likely in other cities"
DW quoted Laura Dickinson that deploying the national guard in DC is problematic and untraditional in the US.