This is a research methods course designed to support the interdisciplinary nature of the research-based courses in the Defense & Strategic Studies Program, DS496 Strategic Studies Thesis and DS498 Strategic Studies Capstone. In this course, students will learn different research methodologies for the strategic studies field and develop effective writing skills in a seminar format. Partway through the semester students will choose an interdisciplinary research topic related to the Defense & Strategic Studies field. The topic, approved by the Course Director, will either be as part of a student-selected thesis for DS496 or an assigned client-based project for DS497. Thesis students must also select faculty members from across the institution to serve as their thesis advisors as part of DS495. Student assignments include practical exercises, a research proposal, a literature review and a draft research methodology.
