Online Global Security Studies Minor
A student needs 18 semester credit hours from among the below listed courses.
Core Course Descriptions (18 hours)
GSST 4300 — Global Security
Is as a comprehensive introduction of the politics of global security, this course explores the evolution of security concepts worldwide, addresses a wide range of major international issues and global implications, as well as identifies and debates about possible measures to address and prevent these problems.
GSST 4305 — Open Source Research
This course provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to conduct research using publicly available information appearing in print or electronic form including the Internet, radio, television, newspapers, journals, commercial databases, and videos, graphics, and specialized publications, citizen’s media, and social media. Students learn advanced Internet research strategies, methods, and approaches for using foreign source research. Students develop fluency in available resources for open source research, including networks, commercial and government databases, academic resources, translation services, and analytical software and research tools.
GSST 4310 — Interdisciplinary Research and Analysis
This course provides basic knowledge and skills needed to undertake research-based problem solving. It is an introduction to empirical research and analysis as used in behavioral, intelligence, and security settings. In this class, students will learn how to pose research questions, apply a theoretical framework, identify and use valid and reliable measures, and gather data, emphasizing the preliminary process of research design. Students will also consider ethical dilemmas and conflicts of interest in research.
GSST 4315 — Special Topics*
This course covers special topics that are not taught elsewhere in the department. May be repeated for credit when topic varies.
GSST 4315 — Special Topics*
This course covers special topics that are not taught elsewhere in the department. May be repeated for credit when topic varies.
GSST 4320 — Practicum in Global Security
This course integrates the broad and specialty knowledge covered in the interdisciplinary courses and the preceding core courses by working in teams to an applied case problem involving a current security issue. The course culminates in an event attended by invited guests from the faculty administration and working professionals, at which each group will present case outcomes.
*Topics must be substantially different.
If you are uncertain of which set of requirements you are expected to follow, please contact Dr. Matthew Weiss at Matthew.Weiss@utrgv.edu or (956) 665-8058.