Hacking for Defense
Fall 2025 | 3 Credits
“The joint force alone can't defend against the threats the U.S. faces today; it's going to need help from the community of innovators…we cannot do this alone. We have to do this...together. And frankly, my friends, the joint force needs your help.” — Gen Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
Are you ready to solve real-world national security challenges?
Virginia Tech is proud to launch Hacking for Defense (H4D) — a groundbreaking, project-based course originally developed at Stanford University. This is not your typical classroom experience. In H4D, you’ll work directly with the U.S. Department of Defense and other national security agencies to tackle mission-critical problems — and deliver real solutions.
Forget “hacking” in the traditional/networking sense. This nationally-recognized course is about hacking through bureaucracy to rapidly prototype and deliver innovative solutions to the people who need them most — our warfighters.
You’ll work in interdisciplinary teams to:
- Engage directly with military and government sponsors
- Apply lean startup and design thinking methodologies
- Develop entrepreneurial solutions…hardware, software, or policy-based
- Present progress weekly to a panel of expert faculty with backgrounds in defense, government, and industry
1. Make a Real Impact: Past student teams have saved the government millions — and launched startups
2. Build Your Network: Gain exposure to DoD sponsors, defense tech leaders, and potential employers
3. Boost Your Resume: Stand out with hands-on experience solving high-stakes, real-world problems
4. Travel Opportunities: Teams may visit their sponsor’s location to deepen collaboration
We’re looking for motivated, self-starting junior/senior undergraduates from all academic backgrounds — engineering, policy, business, design, and more. Preference will be given to students who apply as teams of 4–5, but individual applicants are also welcome.
One quick note of warning. While this class only meets once a week, the real learning comes from your interviews with the DoD sponsor, understanding their pain points, and how your proposed solution can solve them. Interviews, fusion of ideas, and solution design can take 10+ hours per week. Make sure that your academic and extra-curricular obligations can accommodate this workload.
The Future Needs You!
Our adversaries are innovating faster than ever. To stay ahead, the U.S. must harness the creativity and ingenuity of its next generation of leaders — that means you. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, engineer, policymaker, or strategist, H4D is your chance to serve your country in a new way — by solving the toughest problems with bold, innovative thinking.
Ready to Apply? Fill out the interest form with personal info and why you’re excited to join the program. If applying as a team, include your teammates’ names and backgrounds.
Applications close at 3:00p ET on Friday, August 29, 2025