Master of Strategy and Security

1 Years On Campus Masters Program

Macquarie University

Program Overview

The Master of Strategy and Security at Macquarie University is a 1-year full-time postgraduate program designed to develop advanced knowledge and practical skills for addressing contemporary security challenges. The interdisciplinary program combines strategic and security theory with applied learning through simulations, wargaming, case studies and scenario-based activities.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1: Covers The Geopolitics of the Indo-Pacific, Intelligence-Based Decision Making, National Security: Threats, Risks and Responses, and National Security in Practice, followed by a 40-credit-point specialisation in Defence and Strategy, Cyber Intelligence or Counter Terrorism.

Focus Areas: Strategy and Security, Geopolitics, Intelligence, National Security, Defence and Strategy, Cyber Intelligence, Counter Terrorism, Risk Analysis and Security Policy.

Learning Outcomes: Graduates will be able to evaluate theories and concepts in strategy and security, apply research and data analysis methods, develop strategies for emerging and enduring threats, formulate evidence-based policy responses and communicate strategic recommendations to government, industry and other audiences.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The program is an AQF Level 9 master's degree by coursework. Professional accreditation is not mentioned on the official program page.

Reputation (Employability): The program combines academic study with simulations, wargaming, scenario-based learning and opportunities for an internship or international study tour, providing practical preparation for security-related professional environments.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The Master of Strategy and Security combines theoretical study with practical, industry-focused learning, allowing students to apply strategic and security concepts to real-world challenges.

Key experiential learning opportunities include:

Simulations and Wargaming: Students tackle complex security issues through simulations and wargaming, developing practical strategic decision-making skills.
Case Studies and Scenario-Based Learning: Students analyse real-world security challenges through case studies and scenario-based activities.
Internships: Students can gain practical industry experience, build professional networks and develop career skills through an internship.
International Study Tours: Students can participate in study tours to the USA, Scotland or Ireland, gaining exposure to international security environments and professional contexts.
Industry Engagement: Students learn from government and industry professionals and engage with industry-driven security and strategy challenges.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Master of Strategy and Security prepares graduates for opportunities across government, defence, intelligence, cybersecurity, law enforcement, international organisations, policy research and security-related industries.

Key progression and future opportunities include:

Career Services: Macquarie University provides career support to help students prepare résumés, identify job opportunities and connect with employers.
Industry Connections: Students can build professional networks through industry-integrated learning, internships, study tours and engagement with government and industry professionals.
Employment Opportunities: Graduates may pursue roles such as Intelligence Analyst, Security Analyst, Strategic Planner, Cyber Threat Intelligence Analyst, National Security Adviser and Defence Capability Planner.
Potential Employers: Opportunities exist across government agencies, defence and security organisations, law enforcement, cybersecurity companies, diplomatic agencies, NGOs, think tanks and policy research institutes.
Further Academic Progression: Graduates may progress to higher degree research, including Master of Research (MRes) and PhD programs in security studies.

Country Requirements

India: Group A (50% pass): WAM 65 required, minimum 60 (First Class); Group B (10-pt, 5.0 pass): WAM 65 required, minimum 6.0 (B average)

China (60% minimum pass): WAM 65 required, minimum score 70 (中 / Good)

USA: Group A (4.0 GPA, 2.0=C): WAM 65 required, minimum 2.7 (B− average)

UK (Lower Second = 50% pass): WAM 65 required, minimum 55 (Lower Second)

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