Michael Botta, D.S.S.

Professor and Chair
Department of Criminal Justice and Intelligence Studies

Contact Information

• Office: 504 Academic Hall
• Phone: 412-392-3833
• Fax: 412-392-3925
• Email: mfbotta@pointpark.edu

Education

• Bachelor of Arts, Administration of Justice, University of Pittsburgh
• Master of Science, Intelligence and National Security, University of Pittsburgh
• Doctor of Strategic Security, Henry-Putnam School of Strategic Security at National American University

Courses Taught

• Intelligence Tradecraft Techniques
• Issues in U.S. Security Policy
• Counter Intelligence
• International Terrorism
• Evolution of Intelligence
• Spies Among US

Professional Memberships

• International Association of Intelligence Educators
• Office of Strategic Services Society
• Pittsburgh Police Security Initiative Program

Selected Presentations

• Guest speaker at the Heinz Historical Society
• Lead lecturer for the New Jersey and New York Police HIDA organizations
• Guest speaker at Penn's Colony Historical Society

In the News

• "Understanding Sherlock Holmes: A Lecture by Michael Botta, PhD," Pittsburgh City Paper, December 2019.
• "Ross plaza shootout spurs scrutiny over undercover drug buys in public places," Pittsburgh Tribune Review, July 29, 2019.
• "Professor Stresses 'Vigilance' Following Paris Attacks," 90.5 FM WESA Essential Pittsburgh, Nov. 17, 2015.

Point Park Features

• "Faculty Tout Intelligence Field's Inclusivity and Interdisciplinary Opportunities," Point Park University website, Jan. 31, 2022.

• "Faculty Q&A: Professors Break Down Hollywood's Version of the Intelligence Field," Point Park University website, June 24, 2021. 

• "Intelligence and National Security Careers Crucial More Than Ever: A Faculty Q&A With Michael Botta, D.S.S.," Point Park University website, June 4, 2020.
• "Professor from University of Salford Manchester Presents to Point Park Intelligence Majors," Point Park University website, March 20, 2018.
• "Point Park Partners With Institute of World Politics," Point Park University website, Jan. 10, 2018.