About Us

The Department of Military and Strategic Studies (MSS) prepares cadets to lead and operate across the spectrum of conflict throughout the globe. We develop and educate operational leaders versed in the relevant context, theory, and application of the military instrument of power in the contemporary environment. Dealing with uncertainty, MSS courses emphasize intellectual power, grit, and non-linear thinking advancing beyond traditional problem solving. This versatile program helps cadets develop the capabilities and mindset to compete successfully in a changing and challenging world.

MSS faculty are award-winning warrior-scholars contributing to and advancing national and international security discourse in myriad methods and venues. Many MSS faculty are widely published authors and recognized scholars in their respective fields, publishing their research in books, articles, and public outlets such as the Washington Post, The Hill, War on the Rocks, the Modern War Institute, and other venues. Our faculty have appeared in national and international media sharing their expert analysis of contemporary issues. In addition to being renowned scholars, MSS faculty conduct rigorous field research around the world. Some faculty travel to and within overseas conflict zones for field work. In addition to their research contributions, MSS faculty possess robust military operational experience. Our faculty have deployed all over the world, and we have faculty representing each branch of the Armed Forces, either as active duty or veterans. Our faculty are graduates of some of the most prestigious institutions in the world including Harvard, Yale, Northwestern, and others. Additionally, MSS faculty have been recognized with USAFA’s Heiser Award (best teacher) and McDermott Award (best researcher). Finally, MSS faculty are accomplished teachers using modern pedagogical practices to engage cadets in the classroom environment.

Accomplished faculty mentor successful cadets: MSS graduates have gone on to elite graduate programs at Columbia University, Georgetown University, King’s College London, and more. Additionally, MSS cadets have published research in peer-reviewed journals; had their projects featured on national TV; and participated in summer research experiences in China, Hong Kong, Washington DC and other locations worldwide. MSS cadets often earn distinguished graduate status by graduating in the top 10% of their class, and many go on to serve continued distinguished careers both in and out of the Air Force.