Your Global Journey Starts Here: A Transformative PhD Program for Future Security Leaders
In a world marked by uncertainty, disruption, and rapid transformation, the ability to understand, anticipate, and respond to global and regional security challenges has never been more crucial. The PhD in Security and Global Studies (PhDSGS) at the American University in the Emirates (AUE) stands as a pioneering academic and professional milestone-designed to shape the next generation of thought leaders, policy influencers, and security experts.
Positioned in the heart of Dubai-a global nexus for diplomacy, innovation, and international engagement-the PhDSGS offers an intellectually rigorous and practically relevant terminal degree, combining interdisciplinary research, policy application, and strategic foresight.
Whether you are a mid-career professional, academic researcher, government official, or international development practitioner, this program will empower you with the knowledge, tools, and competencies needed to analyze complex global phenomena, develop sustainable solutions, and lead with impact in high-stakes environments.
Aligned with UAE National Priorities
The PhDSGS is fully aligned with:
By enrolling in this program, students directly contribute to the country’s efforts to build knowledge-based security and position the UAE as a global hub for peace and innovation.
| Course Category | Total Number of Courses | Total Number of Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Core Courses | 9 | 27 |
| Elective Courses | 2 | 6 |
| Research Seminar | – | 3 |
| Dissertation | – | 27 |
| Total | – | 63 Credit Hours |
| Course Name | Credit Hours | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Theories of International Relations and Security | 3 | Exploration of the key theories and frameworks in international relations and their application to security studies. |
| Geopolitics of the Middle East | 3 | Examination of the geopolitical dynamics shaping the Middle East, including resource politics, conflicts, and alliances. |
| Global Security Trends and Challenges | 3 | Analysis of contemporary security issues such as cyber threats, terrorism, and nuclear proliferation. |
| Ethics and Governance in Leadership and Security | 3 | Study of ethical considerations and governance structures in security decision-making. |
| leadership Roles in Human Security and Development in the Middle East | 3 | Examination of the intersection of security and human development in the context of migration, poverty , and education. It also explores the intersection of human security and sustainable development , focusing on issues such as poverty, healthcare, and education. |
| Leadership Roles in Peace and Conflict Resolution | 3 | Study of strategies and frameworks for resolving conflicts and building sustainable peace. It explores the pivotal role of leadership in peacebuilding and conflict resolution, focusing on advanced theories, strategies, and practices for resolving disputes. It emphasizes the development of critical leadership skills, such as negotiation, mediation, and diplomacy, with practical applications in regional and global contexts |
| Terrorism and Counterterrorism Strategies | 3 | Analysis of terrorist networks and strategies to counter extremism. It also examines maritime security challenges, including piracy and smuggling, with a focus on the Gulf region. |
| Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies in Security and Leadership | 3 | Examines the role of AI and emerging technologies in global and regional security. |
| Research Methodology | 3 | To cover the following topics: >> Advanced Qualitative Research Methods Techniques for collecting and analyzing qualitative data in global studies. >> Quantitative Analysis for Security Studies Statistical tools and models for analyzing security-related data. >> Applied Research Design in Global Studies Principles and strategies for designing impactful research projects. >> Policy Research and Impact Analysis Tools for assessing the effectiveness and impact of security policies. |
| Course Name | Credit Hours | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Peacebuilding | 3 | Focus on theories and practices of rebuilding societies after conflict, with examples from the Middle East. |
| Energy Security and Sustainability | 3 | Explores the critical role of energy resources in regional security, focusing on oil, gas, and renewable energy. Topics include global energy markets, pipeline politics, and the transition to clean energy in the GCC. |
| Cybersecurity and Digital Information Warfare | 3 | Exploration of digital threats and strategies to ensure cybersecurity. It covers the growing threat of cyberattacks in the Middle East, including the role of state and non-state actors in cyber conflicts. Topics include information warfare, critical infrastructure protection, and data sovereignty. |
| Conflict Resolution and Mediation | 3 | Examine advanced theories and practices in resolving conflicts, with emphasis on mediation strategies in the Middle East. Case studies include the Gulf Cooperation Council’s role and the UAE’s peacemaking efforts. |
| Food Security and Sustainability in the Middle East | 3 | Explores the critical challenges and opportunities surrounding food security in the Middle East, emphasizing sustainable agricultural practices, water resource management, and climate change adaptatio |
| Course Name | Credit Hours | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comprehensive Exam | 0 | Students will complete written and oral examinations to demonstrate their mastery of core and elective coursework, as well as their readiness for dissertation research. Students must pass the comprehensive exam before starting their thesis. If students fail the comprehensive exam, they will have one opportunity to retake it after one month. |
| Semester | Course | Cr. Hrs |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 | Theories of International Relations and Security | 3 |
| Semester 1 | Research Methodology | 3 |
| Semester 2 | Global Security Trends and Challenges | 3 |
| Semester 2 | Geopolitics of the Middle East | 3 |
| Semester 2 | Elective Course | 3 |
| Semester | Course | Cr. Hrs |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 3 | Ethics and Governance in Leadership and Security | 3 |
| Semester 3 | Leadership Roles in Human Security and Development in Middle East | 3 |
| Semester 3 | Elective Course | 3 |
| Semester 4 | Leadership Roles in Peace and Conflict Resolution | 3 |
| Semester 4 | Terrorism and Counterterrorism Strategies | 3 |
| Semester | Course | Cr. Hrs |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 5 | Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies in Security and Leadership | 3 |
| Semester 5 | Comprehensive Exam | 3 |
| Semester 6 | Dissertation | 30 |
| Semester | Course | Cr. Hrs |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 7 | Dissertation | 30 |
| Semester 8 | Dissertation | 30 |
To be eligible for admission, applicants must demonstrate academic excellence and a clear research vision.
The following criteria must be met:
A Global Program for Global Thinkers
The PhDSGS program is ideal for candidates seeking to build careers in:
Graduates of the program become expert researchers, strategic advisors, and visionary leaders, equipped to handle challenges ranging from Homeland security, geopolitical instability to Al-driven warfare to climate-induced migration.
