As the United States navigates complex threats from China, foreign influence, artificial intelligence, and geopolitical tensions, Seton Hall University offers a hands-on program that prepares graduate students for real-world national security issues. Founded by national security expert Mohamad Mirghahari, the National Security Graduate Fellowship at Seton Hall’s School of Diplomacy and International Relations pairs students with government agencies for practical research and analysis.
This initiative boasts an impressive 80% placement rate, with graduates advancing to roles in the NSA, CIA, Secret Service, military, and defense contracting firms. Mirghahari, a Seton Hall alumnus, with vast experience in the Department of Defense, aims to ensure students are workplace-ready the moment they are hired. His background includes roles supporting global counterterrorism initiatives and advising Transportation Security Administration leadership.
“My goal for my students is they’re ready day one if they get hired,” Mirghahari shared.
The unique program engages students in actual national security challenges from U.S. agencies. With limited resources, these agencies benefit from student-supported research and analysis on urgent security issues.
Guest lecturers from various government sectors enrich the program by sharing firsthand insights on contemporary and evolving threats. Topics addressed include China, India, Pakistan, the South China Sea, and the potential re-engagement with the Taliban in Afghanistan. Mirghahari emphasizes providing real-time research, which remains relevant for years.
Besides geopolitical issues, the fellowship examines emerging national security challenges involving artificial intelligence and data. Students contribute valuable technological expertise that agencies might overlook. Artificial intelligence has transformed cyber threat management and operations, with students using it as a “force multiplier.”
Mirghahari highlights how students utilize artificial intelligence, graph theory, and analytical methods on large datasets to understand how data influences national security. The program educates students on leveraging technologies for government applications.
“Our students can sift through large amounts of information and extract what is relevant to support their research,” Mirghahari noted.
The fellowship accelerates knowledge acquisition, offering skills that students typically gain over five years in national security roles. Agencies frequently commend their proficiency over seasoned professionals.
“Some of the feedback we’ve received from agencies is, ‘Your students are well-equipped. They’re better than some of the people who have been here for five to 10 years,'” Mirghahari remarked.