Widener University

What you'll study

This undergraduate programme blends core international relations theory with specialised study in national security, intelligence, and policy analysis. Students take a mixture of required core modules and electives that can include:

• Foundations of International Relations: theories of international politics, state behaviour and global order.
• U.S. Foreign Policy and National Security: history and practice of U.S. policy-making, civil‑military relations and contemporary security challenges.
• Comparative Politics and Regional Studies: focused study of regions such as Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Latin America.
• International Law and Diplomacy: legal frameworks, negotiation and diplomatic practice.
• Intelligence and Counterterrorism: intelligence collection and analysis, analytical tradecraft and counterterrorism strategies.
• Cybersecurity and Emerging Threats: the security implications of cyber operations, information warfare and technological change.
• Research Methods and Policy Analysis: quantitative and qualitative research techniques, statistics for social science and policy evaluation.
• Capstone/Practicum and Internship: applied projects, simulations, or work placements with government agencies, NGOs, think tanks or private-sector employers.

The programme typically sits within a liberal‑arts framework so students also complete general-education requirements in writing, history, economics, and languages. Opportunities for independent research, internships, study abroad and involvement in policy journals or model diplomacy simulations are common features.

Entry requirements

Admissions look for a strong secondary-school record demonstrating readiness for collegiate-level writing and analytical work. Typical expectations include:

• High-school diploma or recognised equivalent.
• Transcripts showing a competitive academic record with coursework in social studies, history, English and mathematics preferred.
• A personal statement outlining interest in international affairs and national security, and how the programme fits academic and career goals.
• Letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors who can speak to academic potential and interpersonal skills.
• International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or acceptable institutional alternatives.

The institution commonly considers transfer applicants with college-level coursework in political science, history, or related fields. Standardised test submission policies may vary; consult the university’s admissions guidance for current options.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a wide range of careers in the public, private and non‑profit sectors. Common paths include:

• Government and public service: policy analyst, foreign service officer, defence and homeland security roles.
• Intelligence and law enforcement: intelligence analyst, counterterrorism specialist, liaison roles with agencies and defence organisations.
• International organisations and NGOs: programme officer, human rights specialist, humanitarian operations.
• Think tanks and research institutions: research associate, policy researcher and subject-matter specialist.
• Private sector: risk analyst, corporate security, consulting, and roles in companies with international operations.
• Further study and professional degrees: graduate programmes in international relations, national security studies, public policy, law or business.

Internships, practicum projects and networking facilitated by the university are important for converting academic experience into employment in these fields.

Why study at Widener University

Widener offers an intimate learning environment with relatively small class sizes, enabling close interaction with faculty who include scholars and practitioners in national security and international affairs. The university emphasises experiential learning, with structured internship placements, simulation exercises and capstone projects that prepare students for applied policy and intelligence work.

Its location within commuting distance of major metropolitan policy centres provides access to internship and networking opportunities with government agencies, think tanks and international organisations. Career services, mentorship and opportunities to engage in interdisciplinary work across political science, cybersecurity and criminal justice strengthen graduates’ employability in both public- and private-sector security roles.