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About the course
This master’s degree prepares future national security policymakers, analysts and leaders, aligned with the ANU National Security College and its partnership focus with government. You build foundations in national security concepts and practical policy skills, then choose electives spanning contemporary and emerging risks such as cyber threats, terrorism, climate impacts, pandemics, foreign interference and Indo‑Pacific strategic tensions. Teaching combines ANU academic expertise with insights from experienced policy practitioners.
What you might learn
You will develop an understanding of Australia’s national security environment and the policy processes used to respond to complex risks. The program aims to build practical capability in analysis, decision-making and policy design, informed by security concepts, methods, ethics and law. Through electives, you broaden expertise across areas such as intelligence, geoeconomics, crisis leadership, technology, migration, gender and civil-military relations, strengthening your ability to evaluate and manage 21st-century security challenges.
Career outcome
Graduates are prepared for roles in national security and public policy across government and related sectors. Typical pathways include policy officer or adviser roles, strategic and risk analysis positions, research and intelligence-related work, and roles supporting crisis management and resilience planning. The qualification is also relevant to professionals in defence and security-adjacent industries, consulting, international organisations and non-government sectors where understanding security, governance and emerging threats supports leadership and decision-making.
Entry requirements
Applicants must meet one of several pathways: a recognised Bachelor degree (or equivalent) with GPA 5/7; or a Bachelor with GPA 4/7 plus either at least 3 years full-time equivalent relevant ANZSCO Skill Level 1 work experience, or a Graduate Certificate (or equivalent) with GPA 4/7. Alternative entry includes a Graduate Diploma with GPA 4/7, 48 postgraduate units with GPA 4/7, or a Graduate Certificate with GPA 4/7 plus relevant experience.
Average Salary***
