As the United States faces complex threats from China, foreign influence, and artificial intelligence, as well as global geopolitical tensions, Seton Hall University provides graduate students with practical experience addressing these challenges. The National Security Graduate Fellowship at Seton Hall’s School of Diplomacy and International Relations connects students with government agencies that need research and analysis on urgent foreign policy and national security matters. The program boasts an 80% placement rate, with many graduates working at the NSA, CIA, Secret Service, and defense companies, according to program founder Mohamad Mirghahari.
Mirghahari, a national security expert and Seton Hall alumnus, has extensive experience in the Department of Defense and as a senior advisor to the Transportation Security Administration. He emphasized the program’s unique nature, stating, “Our graduate students tackle real-world national security challenges and issues for government agencies.” He noted that many agencies are overstretched, and the students’ research supports these entities with real-time solutions.
The fellowship involves practitioners from across the U.S. government serving as guest lecturers and professors. These experts impart crucial insights into current national security threats that differ significantly from those of the past. Students work on projects involving major geopolitical issues, such as the impact of China, India, and Pakistan on the South China Sea, as well as the potential U.S. re-engagement with the Taliban in Afghanistan.
Mirghahari highlighted the program’s focus on emerging threats, including artificial intelligence and data. Students contribute technological expertise that many government agencies might lack, making them invaluable assets. They employ tools like AI and graph theory to analyze large datasets, enhancing their understanding of these technologies and their applications across government functions.
According to Mirghahari, the advanced skills learned by students within the program often exceed the capabilities of those who’ve been in national security roles for years. Feedback from agencies confirms this, with remarks highlighting how well-prepared the students are for real-world challenges.