Capability Management

Capability Management is a critical discipline dedicated to the strategic planning, development, and deployment of resources to achieve organisational objectives effectively and efficiently. This programme at UNSW Canberra at ADFA provides students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills necessary to lead and manage complex capability development projects within defence, government, and industry sectors. The curriculum covers core areas such as systems thinking, project management, risk assessment, procurement, lifecycle management, and strategic planning, equipping graduates to address the dynamic challenges of modern capability management environments. Students will explore the principles of capability planning, acquisition, sustainment, and disposal, understanding how to optimise a system’s performance throughout its lifecycle. Emphasis is placed on integrating technological innovation, policy frameworks, and stakeholder engagement to enhance decision-making processes. The programme employs a combination of theoretical studies, case analyses, and real-world scenarios to foster critical thinking and practical application of knowledge. With a focus on interdisciplinary approaches, graduates gain the ability to analyse capability requirements, develop strategies to meet those needs, and oversee their implementation in complex operational contexts. The coursework is supplemented by industry engagements, guest lectures, and project work designed to simulate real-world challenges faced by capability managers. Graduates of this programme are well-prepared for leadership roles in defence acquisition, project management, systems engineering, and strategic planning, where they can contribute to the effective delivery and sustainment of critical capabilities. Such roles include managing integrated defence systems, overseeing procurement processes, and ensuring the efficient use of resources to maintain strategic advantage. By completing this programme, students acquire a versatile skill set that enables them to operate confidently in multidisciplinary teams and adapt to evolving technological and strategic landscapes. The programme’s strong industry links and focus on practical skills ensure graduates are highly sought after in both government and private sectors involved in capability development and management. Overall, the Capability Management programme at UNSW Canberra at ADFA is committed to developing highly qualified professionals capable of delivering innovative solutions to meet complex capability challenges in a rapidly changing world.

Capability Management at UNSW Canberra offers a comprehensive postgraduate program designed to equip students with the strategic and operational skills necessary to oversee complex defense and national security systems. This program provides a thorough understanding of how to effectively plan, develop, and sustain capabilities within defence organizations and related industries. Covering a broad spectrum of topics, the curriculum integrates aspects of systems thinking, project management, policy development, and stakeholder engagement, all within the context of defense and security environments. Students will explore frameworks for capability analysis, risk management, and resource allocation, preparing them to make informed decisions in high-stakes scenarios. The program emphasizes practical applications and real-world case studies, enabling graduates to translate theory into effective practice. It also addresses emerging trends such as technology integration, innovation management, and policy adaptation in response to evolving security challenges. The coursework is designed to foster critical thinking, strategic planning, and leadership skills, ensuring that graduates are capable of managing capabilities across the entire lifecycle—from initial concept development through sustainment and eventual decommissioning. By engaging with multidisciplinary perspectives and collaborating with industry partners, students develop a holistic understanding of capability management processes. The program is suitable for military personnel, government officials, defense contractors, and industry professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in managing complex systems and capabilities critical to national security. Upon completion, graduates will be well-positioned to contribute effectively to capability development initiatives, influence policy decisions, and lead organizational change in defense and security sectors. The curriculum is delivered through a combination of lectures, workshops, case studies, and research projects, supported by UNSW Canberra’s strong links with defense and government agencies. This ensures that students are kept abreast of current practices and future trends in capability management, making them valuable assets to their organizations and to national security efforts.

• Relevant 4-year Bachelor Level or Hons Level
• Or relevant Graduate Diploma
• Or 3-year Bachelor Level and 3 years' relevant work experience
• Or equivalent qualifications and/or Applicable work experience

The Financing Studies component of the Capability Management program at UNSW Canberra at ADFA provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the financial principles essential for effective capability development and management within defense and national security contexts. The program emphasizes the importance of sound financial decision-making, budgeting, cost analysis, and resource allocation to ensure the efficient use of limited resources in complex organizational environments. Students are introduced to various financial management tools and techniques, including cost-benefit analysis, financial reporting, and risk assessment, which are critical for policy formulation and project evaluation. The curriculum integrates theoretical frameworks with practical applications, enabling students to analyze financial data, develop financial strategies, and make informed decisions that align with organizational goals. Additionally, the program covers government financial regulations, procurement policies, and sustainability considerations, preparing graduates to operate within the regulatory and ethical frameworks governing defense funding. Financial studies within the program are delivered through a combination of lectures, case studies, simulations, and project work, fostering both analytical skills and strategic thinking. The program also highlights the importance of financial leadership and ethical considerations in managing defense capability projects, ensuring that graduates are equipped to balance fiscal responsibility with operational effectiveness. The comprehensive nature of the Financing Studies component ensures that graduates possess the financial acumen necessary to support the planning, execution, and evaluation of capability projects across various defense domains, contributing to the organization's overall mission success and long-term sustainability.

The Capability Management program at UNSW Canberra, offered through the Australian Defence Force Academy, is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively oversee and manage complex capabilities within defense and related sectors. This program emphasizes strategic thinking, systems thinking, and decision-making in the context of capability development, acquisition, and sustainment. Students are introduced to a multidisciplinary approach, integrating engineering, management, and policy principles to ensure that organizational objectives are met efficiently and effectively.

The curriculum covers key areas such as project and program management, systems engineering, risk assessment, and resource allocation, all tailored towards the unique needs of defense capabilities. Students gain practical insights into the lifecycle management of systems, from initial concept through to retirement, understanding the logistical, technical, and operational challenges involved. The program also aims to develop leadership skills, fostering the ability to coordinate diverse teams and manage stakeholders in a complex operational environment.

Through a combination of theoretical foundations and real-world case studies, students are prepared to address contemporary challenges in capability management, including innovation, integration of emerging technologies, and resource constraints. The course frequently includes collaborative projects and industry placements, providing hands-on experience and fostering professional networks within the defense sector.

Graduates of this program are well-positioned to pursue careers in defense acquisition, strategic planning, systems engineering, and related fields where effective capability management is critical. They are equipped to contribute to national security objectives, support military operational readiness, and facilitate technological advancements within the defense industry. The program maintains strong links with defense organizations and industry partners to ensure its curriculum remains aligned with current and future capability needs. Overall, the Capability Management program at UNSW Canberra combines academic rigor with practical relevance, preparing graduates to lead and innovate in the field of capability development and management.