A conversation with Dr Alicia Ellis
Introduce yourself and tell us a bit about the programme.
I'm Alicia Ellis, Professor of Practice at Arizona State University. My work focuses on the intersection of national security, economic security, and strategic competition.
I’m also the Chair of the Security & Defence PLuS Education Working & Delivery Group. In that role, I help lead the development of our shared educational initiatives across the partnership, including the International Security and Policy MA programme.
Arizona State University contributes two modules to the programme:
- Emerging Technologies and Global Security explores how technologies such as artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, and biotechnology are reshaping security, conflict, and strategic competition.
- Leading in a Dynamic International Environment develops practical approaches to leadership, planning, and decision-making in complex, uncertain environments.
Together, these modules complement the programme by helping students understand both the changing strategic landscape and the leadership skills needed to operate effectively within it.
What should students know about ASU’s modules?
The security environment is changing faster than at any point in recent decades. Emerging technologies, geopolitical competition, economic security, and information environments increasingly intersect, requiring professionals who can think across traditional disciplinary boundaries.
Artizona State University’s modules emphasise analytical thinking, practical application, and engagement with real-world policy challenges rather than simply learning theory.
Students should expect to actively apply concepts to contemporary security problems and to engage with classmates bringing perspectives from different sectors and countries.
What are the benefits of studying this programme as part of the Security & Defence PLuS?
One of the greatest strengths of the Security & Defence PLuS partnership is that it brings together expertise from leading universities across three countries.
Security challenges rarely stop at national borders, and neither should the education designed to address them. Students benefit not only from the individual modules, but also from exposure to different academic traditions, professional experiences, and regional perspectives.
That diversity enriches classroom discussions and better reflects the international environment in which today's security professionals operate.
The ASU modules complement King's College London's longstanding strengths by contributing expertise in emerging technologies, decision-making, and applied leadership.
How does the programme help students with their current or future career goals?
Whether students aspire to careers in government, defense, international organisations, industry, or the non-profit sector, employers increasingly value professionals who can analyse complex problems, adapt to rapidly changing environments, and make sound decisions under uncertainty.
ASU’s Emerging Technology module helps students understand how technological change influences strategy, policy, and security planning. The Leadership module develops structured approaches to planning, decision-making, and organisational leadership that can be applied across a wide range of professional settings.
Together, they build capabilities that remain valuable even as specific technologies and geopolitical challenges continue to evolve.
What should students considering online study be aware of?
Online study offers tremendous flexibility, but it also requires discipline and consistent engagement. Successful students establish a regular study routine, stay current with course materials, and actively participate in discussions with their classmates.
One of the advantages of this programme is that students will be learning alongside professionals from different sectors and countries. Those interactions are an important part of the educational experience, so I encourage students to view the online classroom as a professional community rather than simply a place to complete assignments.
What are you most looking forward to in teaching this programme?
I'm looking forward to learning from the students as much as teaching them. The first cohort will bring together professionals with diverse experiences, perspectives, and regional expertise, and those discussions often become one of the most valuable aspects of graduate education.
I'm particularly interested in seeing how students connect concepts from across the Security & Defence PLuS curriculum and apply them to the security challenges facing governments and organisations today. Because this is an international programme, I expect those conversations to be richer and more nuanced than would be possible in a single-institution classroom.