Master of Strategy and Security

Program Overview

The Master of Strategy and Security at UNSW Canberra equips students with a comprehensive understanding of global and Asia-Pacific security environments. Through core courses in defense policy, intelligence, and risk management, students develop analytical and decision-making skills for managing crises and achieving resolution in critical situations. Elective courses allow for specialization in areas such as cybersecurity, terrorism, and climate change. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in international affairs, security, and defense, with potential roles in government agencies, security organizations, and private sector companies.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

The Master of Strategy and Security at UNSW Canberra is a postgraduate program designed for students and foreign affairs, security, and defense professionals. It offers a comprehensive understanding of the global and Asia-Pacific security and strategic environments and the complex policy challenges presented by the new security agenda. Through this program, students will develop the skills and knowledge necessary to manage crises, deal with consequences, and achieve resolution in critical and fluid situations.

Objectives:

• Gain a deeper understanding of the factors shaping global and Asia-Pacific security and strategic environments.
• Develop the ability to analyze and interpret complex security challenges.
• Acquire the skills to develop and implement effective security and defense policies.
• Enhance leadership and decision-making abilities in the context of national and international security.

Program Description:

The Master of Strategy and Security program consists of 8 courses (48 UOCs). Students must select at least 24 UOCs from the list of core courses, with the remaining courses chosen from the elective options. The program is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in the core principles of strategy and security, as well as the flexibility to tailor their studies to their specific interests and career goals.

Outline:

Program Structure:

Students are required to complete 8 courses (48 UOCs) for the Master of Strategy and Security program. The program's core courses provide a foundation in the fundamentals of strategy and security, while elective courses allow students to explore specific areas of interest.

Course Schedule:

The program is offered in a fully online format, providing flexibility for students to study at their own pace and schedule. Courses are typically offered on an annual or bi-annual basis, ensuring that students have access to the most up-to-date content and research.

Individual Modules:

Core Courses:

• Security in the Asia-Pacific Region: Examines the diverse security challenges facing the Asia-Pacific region, including territorial disputes, maritime security, terrorism, and cyber threats.
• Defense and Security Policy: Explores the formulation and implementation of defense and security policies in Australia and other countries.
• Intelligence and National Security: Provides an overview of the role of intelligence in national security, including collection, analysis, and dissemination of information.
• Risk and Crisis Management: Focuses on the identification, assessment, and management of risks and crises in the security and defense context.

Elective Courses:

• Cybersecurity and National Security: Examines the threats and challenges posed by cybersecurity to national security.
• Terrorism and Counterterrorism: Explores the causes, manifestations, and strategies for countering terrorism.
• Nuclear Weapons and Non-Proliferation: Analyzes the role of nuclear weapons in international relations and the challenges of non-proliferation.
• Climate Change and Security: Investigates the security implications of climate change, including resource scarcity, conflict, and migration.

Careers:

Potential Career Paths:

Graduates of the Master of Strategy and Security program are well-prepared for careers in international affairs, security, and defense. They may find employment in the following sectors:

• Government agencies (e.g., Department of Defense, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade)
• Security and intelligence organizations (e.g., Australian Security Intelligence Organisation, Defence Intelligence Organisation)
• Non-profit organizations (e.g., think tanks, humanitarian organizations)
• Private sector companies with a focus on security and defense (e.g., defense contractors, risk management firms)

Opportunities:

The Master of Strategy and Security program provides graduates with the knowledge and skills to pursue leadership roles in the field of security and defense. Graduates may have the opportunity to work on a range of issues, including:

• Developing and implementing national security strategies
• Managing international crises
• Countering terrorism and other threats to national security
• Promoting peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region