Master of Strategy and Security (Canberra)
- Commencing Terms
- Semester 1 & 2
- Duration
- 1 Year(s)
- Delivery Mode
- Online
- Campus
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Canberra
- Codes
- Program code 8572
- CRICOS code -
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2025 Indicative first year full fee
- $35,000*
-
2025 Indicative full fee to complete degree
- $35,000*
-
2025 Indicative first year full fee
- $48,000*
-
2025 Indicative full fee to complete degree
- $49,000*
Fees
Fees
-
Optional research project
-
Fully online
-
Complete in one year full-time
- Overview
- Entry requirements
- What will I study?
- Future careers
- How to apply
- Fees & Scholarships
Overview
Master the complexities of global security with UNSW Canberra’s Master of Strategy and Security. This program equips you with the skills to navigate and respond to evolving challenges such as cyber threats, climate change and geopolitical instability. Prepare to shape solutions for some of the world’s most pressing issues by studying at a university at the forefront of Defence and strategic policy.
This program is designed for postgraduate students and professionals working in foreign affairs, security and Defence who wish to gain a deeper and more advanced understanding of the factors shaping the global and Asia-Pacific security and strategic environments. You’ll gain advanced analytical skills, learn how to manage crises, anticipate risks and drive strategies that foster global stability.
As a graduate, you’ll join a network of professionals making a real impact in international affairs, national security and Defence policy. This degree offers pathways into roles like security analyst, policy advisor and strategic consultant, positioning you to contribute to global progress and ensure safer, more secure futures for everyone.
Key features
Expertise in Asia-Pacific security
Gain deep insight into the strategic and security challenges facing the Asia-Pacific region. As Australia plays an increasingly critical role in this area, your understanding of regional geopolitics will be invaluable in roles across government, Defence and global organisations. You’ll emerge ready to influence foreign policy and international development.
Immediately applicable skills
Learn techniques that translate directly into practical career outcomes. From crisis management to policy development, you’ll acquire skills that help you navigate complex security scenarios. Whether you’re leading teams or shaping strategies, your ability to resolve issues will set you apart.
Opportunities in Defence and beyond
This degree prepares you for a wide range of career paths, from Defence and intelligence to risk analysis and consulting. You’ll build transferable skills that are highly sought after across both the public and private sectors, giving you the flexibility to pursue roles in national security, global affairs, or multinational corporations.
Why study at UNSW Canberra?
Join a global leader in Defence education
UNSW Canberra is renowned for its expertise in Defence and security, providing you with unparalleled access to world-class educators and cutting-edge research. This reputation opens doors to senior roles in government, Defence and global organisations.
Make strong industry connections
Benefit from UNSW’s extensive network across government, Defence and industry sectors. These connections can lead to exclusive opportunities for internships, collaborations and career advancement. You’ll graduate with not only knowledge but also the industry relationships needed to make an immediate impact.
Flexible learning for working professionals
Designed with professionals in mind, UNSW Canberra’s flexible, online delivery means you can study while balancing your career and personal commitments. Whether you're already in the defence sector or looking to pivot into security roles, this qualification will accelerate your career.
Want to see more from UNSW Canberra at ADFA?
Entry requirements
Program structure
The Master of Strategy and Security at UNSW Canberra is delivered by the School of Humanities and Social Sciences. Students will complete 48 Units of Credit (UOC), made up of two core courses and six electives.
You’ll explore a diverse range of topics that address contemporary global and regional security challenges. Core subjects focus on areas such as strategic studies, international security and the geopolitical dynamics of the Asia-Pacific. You’ll also have the opportunity to tailor your studies with electives covering crisis management, cyber security and policy development. This combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills prepares you to navigate complex security environments and shape effective strategies across a range of sectors.
Students who excel may undertake a research thesis, giving you the opportunity to gain specialist expertise in an area you’re passionate about.
Full program structure
This program contains a total of 48 units of credit (UOC) and can be completed in one year of full-time study (or part-time equivalent).
Core courses - 12 UOC
● Foundations of Modern Strategy
● Global Security
● Asia-Pacific Security: The Dynamics of Change
Prescribed electives - 36 UOC
● American Empire
● Strategic Communication
● Contemporary Warfare
● Modern Naval History and Strategy
● Genocide: Perception and Intervention
● The Development of the Art of War: A Survey
● Most Secret: Intelligence in the World
● Australian Defence Policy: Concepts and Challenges
● International Peacekeeping Operations
● China’s Security Policy and Military Modernisation
● Contemporary Strategy
● Global Justice and World Politics
● Cyber-Security and World Politics
● Conflict Transformation
● Culture and Conflict
● Cyber Policy in China
● Special Operations: Theory and Strategic Utility
● Power and Australian Government Policy
● GRIM Threats (Guerrilla, Revolutionary, Insurgent and Militia) and Irregular Warfare
● Ethics in Special, Complex and Irregular Military Operations
● International Law in Global Politics
● Cyberspace, National Security and Law
● Military Game Changers in 21st Century Warfare
● Space Cooperation, Conflict and Competition
● Gender and Power in the Indo-Pacific: Key Debates
Research thesis - 12 UOC
Students who obtain at least a Distinction average in the four core courses may undertake a research thesis.
Future careers
Graduates of the Master of Strategy and Security are entering a rapidly evolving sector where global threats like cyber attacks, geopolitical tensions and climate-related risks are reshaping the security landscape. In Australia, the Defence industry employs more than 100,000 people in Australia, and that number is expected to increase over the next decade as the demand for security and Defence professionals grows.
As governments and organisations seek to address these challenges, graduates can drive progress by developing innovative strategies, shaping policy and managing crises. Whether you’re aiming for roles in national security, intelligence, or private-sector risk analysis, this degree equips you with the expertise to lead in a high-impact, fast-growing field.
Potential roles:
● Border Protection Officer
● Counterterrorism Analyst
● Defence Analyst
● Diplomatic Advisor
● Foreign Policy Advisor
● Intelligence Analyst
● National Security Consultant
● Policy Advisor
● Risk Analyst
● Security Consultant
● Security Intelligence Officer
● Strategic Planner
● Strategy Consultant
● Threat Analyst
● Weapons Control Analyst
How to apply
Applications must be submitted through our Apply Online portal. We encourage you to submit your completed application as early as possible to ensure it will be processed in time for your preferred term. Some high-demand programs and Faculties with limited places may have an earlier application deadline or commencement date. Find out more.
Ready to start your application?
For most international students, applications are submitted via our Apply Online service. We encourage you to submit your completed application as early as possible to ensure it will be processed in time for your preferred term.
Some high-demand programs with limited places, may have an earlier application deadline or may have an earlier commencement date. For more information visit our international applicant information page.
Ready to start your application?
Fees & Scholarships
*Fees are subject to annual review (or when required) by the University and may vary accordingly.
Indicative fees are a guide only and have been calculated based on the typical enrolment patterns of students undertaking the program. The indicative fees listed here is an estimate for tuition only and excludes non-tuition fees and charges. The amount you pay will vary depending on the calendar year of enrolment, the courses you select and whether your study load is more or less than 1 Equivalent Full Time Student Load (48 units of credit (UOC) per year).
You should not rely on indicative fees as fee increases are assessed when required and may exceed the indicative figures listed here. Actual fees are calculated on enrolment. More information on fees can be found at the UNSW fees website.
*Fees are subject to annual review by the University and may increase annually, with the new fees effective from the start of each calendar year. The indicative fees listed here are based on an estimated average and are for tuition only, other fees and charges are not included. The amount you pay will vary depending on the calendar year to enrol, the courses you select and whether your study load is more or less than 1 Equivalent Full Time Student Load (8 courses per year).
Indicative fees are a guide for comparison only based on current conditions and available data. You should not rely on indicative fees. More information on fees can be found at the UNSW fees website.
Indicative fees to complete the program have been calculated based on a percentage increase for every year of the program. Fee increases are assessed annually and may exceed the indicative figures listed here.
Indicative fees to complete the program include tuition plus an estimate of study-related costs of approximately $1,000 per year. To find out more about other costs, visit UNSW International.
Scholarships
At UNSW, we award over $83 million in scholarships each year. We pride ourselves on rewarding excellence and making university accessible to students from all walks of life. Whether you’re a domestic or international student, our range of scholarships, prizes and awards can support your journey.
QS World University Rankings, 2025.
AFR Top 100 Future leaders Award.
#1 Australian uni attended by start-up founders.
