Master of National Security Policy – ANU

Master's Degree Political Science Full Time

Master of National Security Policy

at Australian National University · Canberra, Australian Capital Territory

CRICOS course code

0101473

CRICOS provider code

00120C

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

1.5 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$84,940 total

Per year

A$56,627/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Master of National Security Policy at the Australian National University (ANU) offers an advanced, multidisciplinary education in national security policy, uniquely situated in Canberra, Australia’s political and policy-making centre. This master’s degree is tailored to equip students with a deep understanding of the contemporary security environment, policy analysis, intelligence, strategic studies, cyber security, and emerging national security challenges at both regional and global levels. By analysing case studies and real-world scenarios, students gain insight into policy development and governmental decision-making frameworks critical to Australia’s national interests.

The course is structured over 1.5 years of full-time study, typically comprising a sequence of core and elective units, each carrying a nominated number of credit points as described by ANU’s programme regulations. Students engage in a blend of coursework, research tasks, and may complete a capstone project that integrates theoretical knowledge with practical policy applications, often linking to government or industry partners. A work-integrated learning component may be present, such as internships or professional placements, which can provide exposure to government, national security agencies, or research organisations located in Canberra’s dynamic policy environment.

Graduates develop critical skills in analytical thinking, policy evaluation, risk assessment, security strategy formulation, and communication. The curriculum is designed for those seeking or advancing careers related to national security, policy analysis, public administration, and strategic affairs, and suits recent graduates, early-career professionals, and mid-career practitioners alike. English proficiency is required, and international students should confirm exact requirements and application details on the official ANU or CRICOS page.

Studying in Australia, master’s students can take advantage of work rights of 48 hours per fortnight during semester and may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-graduation, allowing valuable access to Australian public service, consultancy, defence, and policy sectors. The ANU’s policy studies programme connects students with renowned research centres, government departments, and international think tanks in the nation’s capital.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Policy analyst or advisor in federal or state government departments
Intelligence officer or national security analyst in Australian security agencies
Strategic policy consultant in public or private sectors
Researcher or academic in defence studies, international relations, or political science
Project or programme manager in NGOs, international organisations, or defence contractors

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of National Security Policy at Australian National University?

It typically takes 1.5 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$84,940 total. Fees change yearly, confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Policy analyst or advisor in federal or state government departmentsIntelligence officer or national security analyst in Australian security agenciesStrategic policy consultant in public or private sectorsResearcher or academic in defence studies, international relations, or poli...

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