Eisenhower School for National Security
Washington, DC
"PRUDENS FUTURI"
The Verdict
The Eisenhower School occupies a unique position within the National Defense University at historic Fort McNair, where the Anacostia and Potomac rivers converge in Washington, D.C. Named for President Dwight D. Eisenhower—who graduated in 1933 and later served on its faculty—the school's mission centers on the resource component of national power.
The school prepares senior leaders to evaluate, marshal, and manage the nation's resources in support of national security strategy.
Campus & Cadet Life
About
The Eisenhower School at Fort McNair prepares senior military officers and civilians for national security leadership, awarding an M.S. in National Resource Strategy. Not open to the public.
Admissions & Selectivity
Admissions Philosophy
highly selective
Key Requirements
- Senior military officers (O-5/O-6) nominated by their services
- Federal civilians (GS-14/15 or equivalent) nominated by their agencies
- Approximately 20 years of experience and exceptional operational-level performance
- Eligibility for Joint Professional Military Education Phase II credit (military)
- Leadership potential and career trajectory toward senior resource management positions
Location
Campus & Facilities
Campus Size
Part of Fort McNair
Housing
N/A
Enrollment
300
Student:Teacher
4:1
Barracks Life
Daily Schedule
The 10-month program is centered on the seminar model, with small cohorts working intensively together. Students conduct domestic and international field research through the Industry Studies Program, meeting with government officials, corporate executives, and technical experts. The program produces comprehensive reports on focus sectors critical to national security.
Discipline Model
Students are responsible for their own housing in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. Most reside off-post with their families in nearby Virginia or Maryland communities. Fort McNair offers access to the Physical Fitness Center (24 hours), dining facilities, and the scenic waterfront along Greenleaf Point.
Academics & Outcomes
Hall of Fame
Dwight D. Eisenhower
34th President of the United States, Supreme Allied Commander in Europe during World War II
Ann Dunwoody
First female four-star general in U.S. military history, Commander of Army Materiel Command
Laura Richardson
Four-star general, Commander of U.S. Southern Command (first woman to lead SOUTHCOM)
Duncan McNabb
Four-star general, Commander of U.S. Transportation Command
Charles R. Holland
Four-star general, Commander of U.S. Special Operations Command
Athletics & Physical Training
Varsity Sports
Mandatory PT
Physical fitness remains an integral component of military service. Students have access to the Fort McNair Physical Fitness Center, a 24-hour facility offering modern exercise equipment, group fitness classes, and recreational sports equipment.
Facilities
Fort McNair Physical Fitness Center (24-hour access) with modern exercise equipment, group fitness classes, and recreational sports. Seasonal tournaments bring together teams from across the Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall community.
Photo Gallery
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