Master of Security and Defence Management
- Commencing Terms
- Semester 1 & 2
- Duration
- 1 Year(s)
- Delivery Mode
- Online
- Campus
-
Canberra
- Codes
- Program code 8573
- CRICOS code -
-
2024 Indicative first year full fee
- $34,000*
-
2024 Indicative full fee to complete degree
- $34,000*
-
2024 Indicative first year full fee
- $44,500*
-
2024 Indicative full fee to complete degree
- $45,500*
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
The Master of Security and Defence Management at UNSW Canberra equips you with the skills and knowledge to lead in one of the world’s most rapidly evolving fields. You’ll explore the complex factors shaping global security environments, gaining a deep understanding of how to manage and respond to modern defence challenges. With this degree, you’ll position yourself as a forward-thinking leader, ready to drive progress in the defence, security and strategic sectors.
Through this program, you'll learn how to navigate the complexities of international security and develop innovative strategies to solve real-world policy problems. Whether you’re already in the Defence industry or looking to transition into this critical field, this postgraduate degree gives you the knowledge and tools to make an impact. You'll be prepared to step into high-level roles in Defence, government, international organisations, or the private sector.
With this degree, you’ll be in high demand to shape defence strategies and manage security risks, positioning yourself as a leader in global security.
Key features
Strategic and operational skills
Develop a comprehensive understanding of the strategic and operational dimensions of Defence. This dual focus gives you the expertise to tackle complex global security challenges and lead in diverse roles.
Real-world policy focus
Develop practical solutions to complex policy challenges, preparing you to influence national and international security strategies. Your expertise will empower you to make critical decisions and lead change in government, Defence and beyond.
Fast-track your career
Complete the program in just one year of full-time study and accelerate your career progression. In less than 12 months, you’ll gain the skills, qualifications and network to secure senior roles in Defence, government, or international organisations, ready to make a real impact on global security challenges.
Why study at UNSW Canberra?
Learn from leading defence experts
Learn from academics and professionals with deep expertise in defence, security and policy-making. Their real-world insights and industry connections will equip you with the practical knowledge needed to influence policy and strategy at the highest levels.
Fit your studies around your life
UNSW Canberra’s fully online delivery mode allows you to balance your studies with your career, giving you the freedom to pursue advanced education without sacrificing your current commitments.
Connection to defence networks
UNSW Canberra’s strong ties to the Australian Defence Force and international defence organisations give you access to a powerful network of professionals. You’ll build valuable connections that can lead to unique career opportunities and collaborations, positioning you to succeed in defence leadership roles.
Want to see more from UNSW Canberra at ADFA?
Entry requirements
Please refer to the UNSW Handbook for the Entry Requirements.
English language requirements
You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on your educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.
If you’re completing an Australian Year 12 qualification (e.g. NSW HSC or equivalent), you do not need to provide anything extra to prove your proficiency. Your qualification will be used as evidence of your English proficiency.
If you do need to provide evidence of your English proficiency, this will be indicated in your application. You can prove this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:
- English language tests and university English courses
- Prior study in the medium of English
- Other qualifications
If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, UNSW College’s Academic English Programs are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.
Please refer to the UNSW Handbook for the Entry Requirements.
English language requirements
You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on your educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.
If you’re completing an Australian Year 12 qualification (e.g. NSW HSC or equivalent), you do not need to provide anything extra to prove your proficiency. Your qualification will be used as evidence of your English proficiency.
If you do need to provide evidence of your English proficiency, this will be indicated in your application. You can prove this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:
- English language tests and university English courses
- Prior study in the medium of English
- Other qualifications
If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, UNSW College’s Academic English Programs are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.
Program structure
The Master of Strategy and Security at UNSW Canberra is a one-year full-time (part-time equivalent) program. Students will complete 48 Units of Credit (UOC).
You’ll complete three courses each in security and management, covering topics such as international security policy, risk management, defence leadership and strategic decision-making. You’ll gain a well-rounded understanding of the global and local security challenges shaping today’s world. With the option to undertake a research project, you can also dive deeper into a specialised area of interest to drive progress in your field.
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.
Prescribed Management electives - 18 UOC
● Strategic Management
● Organisational Behaviour
● Strategic Human Resources
● Accounting for Management Decisions
● Business Law
● Leadership
● Business Ethics
● Logistics Management
● Strategic Procurement and Outsourcing
Prescribed Security Electives - 18 UOC
● Strategic Communication
● Modern Naval History and Strategy
● Global Security
● Asia-Pacific Security: The Dynamics of Change
● Australian Defence Policy: Concepts and Challenges
● China's Security Policy and Military Modernisation
● Contemporary Strategy
● Global Justice and World Politics
● Cyber-Security and World Politics
● Conflict Transformation
● Culture and Conflict
● Special Operations: Theory and Strategic Utility
● Power and Australian Government Policy
● International Law in Global Politics
● Military Game Changers in 21st Century Warfare
● Space Cooperation, Conflict and Competition
Other Coursework Programs - 12 UOC
Students may, with the approval of the Postgraduate Coordinator, complete up to two courses (12 UOC) from other coursework programs of equivalent academic standard. These may include:
● Any course offered by the UC School of Humanities and Social Sciences
● Any course offered by the UC School of Business
Research Thesis
Students who achieve at least a Distinction average in four courses may take a 12 UOC research thesis. The research thesis is composed of Research Thesis A and Research Thesis B, each worth 6 UOC. You must enrol in both units to fulfil the requirements. These units can be completed either concurrently in a single semester or consecutively over two semesters. Approval by the Postgraduate Coordinator is required for enrolment.
Future careers
Graduates of the Master of Security and Defence Management are entering a dynamic and rapidly evolving sector. With increasing global security threats, ranging from cyber warfare to geopolitical tensions, the demand for skilled defence and security professionals is higher than ever. Job growth in defence and national security roles is projected to rise significantly in the coming years, driven by heightened investment in defence and security initiatives.
As a graduate, you’ll be well-positioned to lead in roles across defence forces, intelligence agencies, government bodies and international organisations, shaping policies and strategies that address complex global challenges and drive real-world progress.
Potential roles:
● Border Protection Officer
● Counterterrorism Analyst
● Defence Consultant
● Defence Intelligence Analyst
● Emergency Management Director
● Intelligence Officer
● Military Operations Planner
● Policy Advisor (Defence and Security)
● Risk and Security Manager
● Security Analyst
● Security Consultant
● Strategic Risk Analyst
● Strategic Planner
● Threat Assessment Specialist
● Weapons Systems 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.
