Master of Strategy and Security

About the course

UNSW Canberra’s Master of Strategy and Security develops advanced understanding of contemporary security challenges and strategic decision-making. The program draws on defence, policy and international security perspectives to build analytical and leadership capability for complex environments. Students engage with strategic thinking, risk and security issues relevant to government and defence contexts. This is a one-year Masters coursework degree in security and strategy.

Career outcome

Graduates may pursue roles in defence and security organisations, government and public policy, intelligence and strategic analysis, or related advisory and risk-focused positions. The degree supports professionals seeking to strengthen strategic planning and security assessment skills for complex national and international contexts. It can also benefit those working with defence capability, policy development and security-related research. This is a Masters coursework qualification in security and strategy.

Living Costs in Canberra**

Restaurant (Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant) A$ 17 - 23	Rent per Month (1 bedroom in City Centre) A$ 1,584 - 2,095	Rent per Month (1 bedroom Outside of Centre) A$ 1,253 - 1,657
Transportation (Daily) A$ 4 - 10	Utilities per Month (Electricity, Mobile & Internet) A$ 264 - 348

Average Salary***

*Source: QS World University Subjects Rankings (2026)

**Source: numbeo.com

***Source: PayScale.com (2026)