Strategic Studies

Strategic Studies at the Australian National University offers students a comprehensive understanding of the complex dynamics that shape global security and international relations. This program is designed to equip students with the analytical tools and strategic insights necessary to navigate and address contemporary security challenges, including geopolitics, military strategy, regional conflicts, and non-traditional security threats such as cyber security and terrorism. The curriculum combines rigorous theoretical frameworks with practical case studies, enabling students to develop critical thinking skills and a deep understanding of how strategic decisions are made at national and international levels. students will engage with topics such as defense policy, intelligence analysis, international security cooperation, and conflict resolution, gaining valuable perspectives from experts actively involved in policy-making and academia. The program encourages an interdisciplinary approach, integrating history, politics, economics, and technological developments to provide a holistic view of security issues. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, and research projects, students will have opportunities to analyze current global events, participate in simulations, and develop strategic communication skills. The program prepares graduates for careers in government agencies, defense organizations, international institutions, think tanks, and research centers focused on security and strategic analysis. With a strong emphasis on critical analysis, ethical considerations, and strategic foresight, the Australian National University’s Strategic Studies program aims to produce graduates who are capable of contributing effectively to policy development and strategic decision-making in an increasingly complex world. Students will benefit from the university’s close ties with government and industry partners, as well as access to leading scholars and practitioners in the field of strategic studies. This program is ideal for individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of security issues and develop the expertise required to influence policy and strategy in a rapidly changing global environment.

The Master of Strategic Studies requires the completion of 96 units which must consist of:

24 units from the completion of the following compulsory courses:

STST8001 Strategic Studies

STST8002 Grand Strategies in the Asia-Pacific

72 units from completion of courses from the following list:

INTR8036 World Politics

INTR8067 U.S. Security Policy in the Asia-Pacific

MEAS8112 Dynamics of Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

MEAS8113 The Gulf Strategic Environment

NSPO8010 Civil-Military Relations

NSPO8013 Disease, Security and Biological Weapons

NSPO8014 Ethics and Technologies of War

STST8004 Australian Strategic and Defence Policy

STST8013 China's Defence and Strategic Challenges

STST8017 Special Topics in Strategic Studies

STST8021 Intelligence and Security

STST8026 Nuclear Strategy in the Asian Century

STST8027 Insurgency & Counterinsurgency in an Age of Terror

STST8032 Why and How We Fight: Understanding War and Conflict

STST8033 Contemporary Issues in Australian Defence Policy

STST8051 Great and Powerful Friends: Strategic alliances and Australian security

STST8052 Strategy in Action: The Development of the Operational Art

A Bachelor degree or international equivalent with a 60% average.

Applicants with a Bachelor Degree or Graduate Certificate in a cognate discipline may be eligible for 24 units (one semester) of credit.

Applicants with a Graduate Diploma or Honours in a cognate discipline may be eligible for 48 units (one year) of credit.

ANU offers a wide range of scholarships to students to assist with the cost of their studies.

Eligibility to apply for ANU scholarships varies depending on the specifics of the scholarship and can be categorised by the type of student you are.  Specific scholarship application process information is included in the relevant scholarship listing.

Strategic Studies at the Australian National University offers a comprehensive academic program designed to develop students' understanding of international security, strategic policy, and defense issues. The program aligns with the university's tradition of rigorous research and policy-oriented education, preparing graduates for careers in government, defense, intelligence, and international organizations. The curriculum features a blend of core courses and electives that explore topics such as strategic theory, security studies, military history, intelligence analysis, geopolitics, and international conflict resolution. Students engage with both theoretical frameworks and practical case studies to build analytical and policy skills vital for understanding complex global security challenges.

Offered primarily through the ANU Coral Bell School of Asia Pacific Affairs, the program emphasizes the importance of Asia-Pacific security dynamics, reflecting the region's strategic significance. The coursework often includes opportunities for interdisciplinary learning, combining political science, history, and international relations. The program may also incorporate seminars, guest lectures from practitioners, and research projects, enabling students to connect academic insights with current policy debates. Students are encouraged to participate in internships and extracurricular activities that enhance their understanding of strategic processes in real-world contexts.

The degree is suitable for those seeking to pursue careers in defense analysis, diplomatic service, international security consulting, or academia. The program also supports further research through potential pathways into master's or doctoral studies. As part of ANU's wider commitment to excellence in research and education, students benefit from access to extensive libraries, research centers, and a network of alumni involved in strategic policy roles across Australia and internationally. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to analyze security issues critically, communicate effectively, and contribute to policy development at national and international levels.