Needs assessment for the establishment of a Masters of Arts program in international studies with a concentration in international security and a specialization in international terrorism

David H. Gray

Department of Government and History, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Fayetteville State University, 1200

Murchison Rd, Fayetteville, NC 28301 J. Knuckles Science Annex, Office 132, U.S.A. E-mail: dgray2@uncfsu.edu. Tel: (910) 672-2120/1573 (Office).

5 July, 2022

Abstract

Since the attacks of September 11, national and international security has been driven to the center stage of our present-day society, thus becoming a primary concern and focus in the United States. The purpose of this study was to conduct an instructional needs assessment for the establishment of a Masters of Arts program in International Studies with a concentration in International Security and a specialization in International Terrorism. This empirical study, consisting of qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis, intended to determine the utility of this type of graduate program. A survey was administered to FSU students and Fort Bragg personnel focusing on perceptions of interest in and importance of the program and its subject content. The results of this study indicated statistically significant interest in and the importance of the establishment of this MA International Studies program, and strongly suggested substantial enrollment projections.

Key words: Needs assessment, curriculum development, international studies, security studies.