Non-Lethal Weapons Curriculum Development

Graduate-Level Elective Course | JPME Institutions

Overview

This highly acclaimed graduate-level elective course on Non-Lethal Weapons (NLW) was developed for inclusion across multiple Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) institutions: the Naval War College, Air Force’s Air University, and the Army War College. It is available in both residential and online formats, providing flexible access to current and future military leaders.

The course has earned a reputation as one of the most popular electives in the curriculum due to its relevance, rigor, and real-world applicability.

Course Objective

The course equips students with a strategic and operational understanding of the full spectrum of non-lethal capabilities, enabling them to make informed, ethically grounded, and strategically sound decisions in complex operational environments.

Key Learning Themes

  • Spectrum of Non-Lethal Weapons
    A comprehensive review of existing and emerging NLW technologies and their roles in the multi-domain battlespace.

  • Operational and Strategic Case Studies
    Deep dives into real-world applications of NLWs—from peacekeeping operations to civil disturbance scenarios—fostering critical thinking and contextual analysis.

  • Decision Science and Ethical Considerations
    Integration of decision analysis frameworks to enhance leaders’ ability to evaluate NLW employment options under uncertainty and constraints, while considering the legal, ethical, and political implications.

Course Features

  • Interdisciplinary Approach
    Blends military science, ethics, international law, and behavioral decision-making.

  • Resident and Online Accessibility
    Tailored for both in-person and distance learners, ensuring broad accessibility for joint force personnel.

  • Joint and Interagency Relevance
    Designed to support JPME learning objectives and interagency collaboration in joint operational planning.

Impact and Reception

The Non-Lethal Weapons elective continues to be a top-selected course among students and faculty alike, praised for its academic depth and operational relevance. Graduates consistently cite the course as instrumental in expanding their understanding of non-lethal options and their utility across the spectrum of military operations.