Seton Hall University Program Prepares Students for National Security Challenges
As the U.S. faces more complex threats, ranging from China to artificial intelligence, a program at Seton Hall University is providing graduate students with practical experience in tackling national security issues. This initiative, the National Security Graduate Fellowship, boasts an impressive 80% placement rate for its graduates, who go on to work in agencies like the NSA, CIA, and military defense contractors, according to Mohamad Mirghahari, the program’s founder.
“I want my students to feel ready from day one if they get hired,” Mirghahari noted in a recent conversation.
Mirghahari, himself a Seton Hall alumnus, has extensive experience in national security, having spent 14 years in leadership roles at the Department of Defense focusing on counterterrorism. He also served as a presidential appointee to the Transportation Security Administration and currently advises the Defense Department.
Unique Training for Real-World Issues
Mirghahari emphasizes that the program is distinct because students engage directly with real-world national security challenges from government entities. “Most agencies have a lot going on and limited resources, but our students help answer critical questions by conducting research for actual needs in national security,” he explained.
This unique approach is further enhanced by guest lecturers and professors who are practitioners from various government sectors. This connection offers students firsthand knowledge about the evolving challenges that differ significantly from those faced decades ago.
“We address the pressing national security issues of today while also learning from history,” Mirghahari added. Projects have included research on countries like China, India, and issues regarding the South China Sea.
For instance, the fellowship has worked on initiatives for the State Department related to potential U.S. interactions with the Taliban if they regain power in Afghanistan, demonstrating the program’s relevance over time.
Focus on Emerging Threats
The program also prioritizes emerging national security threats involving technology and foreign influence. Mirghahari remarked that younger students often possess valuable technological skills and perspectives that were unforeseen by traditional government frameworks.
He mentioned, “Artificial intelligence and data are becoming pivotal in our national security efforts.” Specifically, the impact of AI has transformed how cyber threats are approached and how cyber operations are conducted, acting as a “force multiplier” for students.
Students in the program learn how to analyze extensive data sets, which is critical in today’s information-driven world. “They can sift through large amounts of information, identify what’s relevant, and help our government clients consolidate and analyze data more effectively,” Mirghahari stated.
He believes that the skills students acquire in the Seton Hall program could take several years to gain on the job. Given the current environment, being ready to contribute actively is essential.
Feedback from government agencies has been positive. Mirghahari shared that some agencies have noted, “Your students are well-equipped. They’re outperforming some employees with five to ten years of experience.”
