Digital Lock

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.

LLM, MSL, and JD Concentration

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.

LLM, MSL, and JD Concentration

About Us

Learn more about our diverse and experienced National Security, Cybersecurity, and Foreign Relations Law faculty.

Faculty Directory

Program News

GW Law students and alumni pose for a photo in the Burns Moot Courtroom after the JAG recruiter panel on September 9, 2026.

GW Law Hosts Fall 2026 JAG Recruiter Panel

September 17, 2026

GW Law’s National Security, Cybersecurity, and Foreign Relations Law Program and the Military Law Society (MLS) co-hosted the annual Judge Advocate General’s Corps (JAG) recruiter panel earlier this month.

GW Law Dean Dayna Bowen Matthew poses for a photo with Colonel Baldrate and the president of the Veteran Law Students Association.

GW Law Hosts Fall 2026 Veterans Welcome Back Reception

September 10, 2026

GW Law’s National Security, Cybersecurity, and Foreign Relations Law Program held its annual Veterans Welcome Back Reception on September 2.

Lisa Schenck and Gregory E. Maggs

GW Law Now Has Two Chief Judges Teaching in the National Security Law Program

August 10, 2026

Gregory E. Maggs, an adjunct professor at GW Law, recently joined Associate Dean Lisa Schenck as a chief judge in the U.S. military justice system.

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. 

 

View All Events


Faculty in the News

"Trump v. Newsom over National Guard is extremely unusual case: legal expert"

KTVU-FOX2, San Francisco featured Laura Dickinson explaining who has authority over the National Guard is an extremely unusual case.

"Lawfare Daily: U.S. Troops on the Streets of Los Angeles"

Lawfare featured Laura Dickinson on domestic military deployments.

"Newsom's short-lived win over Trump"

KTVU-FOX2, San Francisco spoke to Laura Dickinson explains federal appeals court siding with President Trump over control of California National Guard.

"Trump deployed troops to Los Angeles without invoking the Insurrection Act. Can he do that?"

Poynter quoted Laura Dickinson on the "disturbingly broad” circumstance in deploying California’s National Guard.


Stay Connected