Augusta University announces PhD program in National Defense, drawing student interest
By Butch Cross | Staff Writer
Augusta University has announced the launch of a new PhD program in Intelligence, Defense and Cybersecurity Policy, an initiative that is generating excitement and interest among students. Approved by the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia, this new program is set to position Augusta University at the forefront of national security education.
“This is a huge step forward for Augusta University and our students,” said William Hatcher, chair of the Department of Social Sciences at Augusta University. “It positions us to be a leader in providing advanced training and research in national security policy.”
The PhD program, led by Craig Albert, the current head of AU’s Master of Arts in Intelligence and Security Studies program, aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to address the increasingly complex challenges in national defense and cybersecurity.
Richard Franza, dean of the Hull College of Business, highlighted the program's strategic significance, stating, “This PhD program aligns with our university’s mission to serve the region and nation by providing cutting-edge education in areas that are vital to our security and economy.”
Students on campus have already begun to express their enthusiasm for the new program. "This program is exactly what we need," said Michael Thompson, a junior majoring in cybersecurity. "It’s going to give us the chance to dive deep into the policy aspects of defense, which is something we don’t often get to explore in our undergraduate studies."
The announcement also reinforces Augusta University’s collaboration with the U.S. Army Cyber Center of Excellence, as well as the National Security Agency’s Georgia field site at Fort Eisenhower. The partnership between the university, the military and the National Security Agency has been pivotal in establishing Augusta as a key player in cybersecurity education and research.
Maj. Gen. Ryan Janovic, Commanding General of the U.S. Army Cyber Center of Excellence and Fort Eisenhower, emphasized the importance of this partnership in an exclusive statement to The Bell Ringer: “The Cyber Center of Excellence is a proud, strategic partner of Augusta University in supporting the growth of our cybersecurity workforce, a vital component of our national security. Continuing education is key to enhancing our capabilities. This doctrinal program directly supports the development of our regional workforce and enhances the sustainability of the CSRA as a southeastern technical hub for cybersecurity.”
As the first cohort prepares to enroll, many students are eager to see how this new PhD program will impact their education and future careers. "It’s exciting to think about where this could lead," said Sarah Mitchell, a graduate student in public administration. "This program puts Augusta University on the map as a leader in defense and cybersecurity education."
The program is expected to launch soon. As the university continues to expand its offerings in national security, students are set to benefit from increased opportunities for research, hands-on learning, and collaboration with leaders in the field.
Augusta University’s new PhD program is a significant milestone in its mission to cultivate future leaders in national defense and cybersecurity, ensuring that students are well-prepared to meet the challenges of tomorrow.
Will this program lend credence to Augusta’s bid for the nickname 'The Cyber City'? Only time will tell.
Contact Butch Cross at bucross@augusta.edu
Photo: Dr. Craig Albert addressing students during a tour of the Georgia Cyber Center. [Photo by Michael Holahan/Augusta University]
