Graduate Diploma in International Security

The Graduate Diploma in International Security at Curtin University is a one-year full-time course for people who want to understand how states, institutions and non-state actors handle security threats. You'll study topics like terrorism, cyber security, intelligence, border protection and the politics of conflict. The course sits within political science, so you'll look at the ideas and structures behind security policy, not just the headlines.

As a graduate diploma, this is an AQF Level 8 qualification. It usually takes one year of full-time study, made up of units of study worth credit points. You might study full-time or part-time, and some units may be available online or in intensive mode. The exact structure, including core and optional units, is set by Curtin. Check the official course page for the current list of units and credit points.

The course builds skills in policy analysis, research, critical thinking and communication. You'll learn to assess security risks, write policy briefs and argue a case using evidence. Teaching often includes case studies and scenario exercises. Some units may include a work-integrated learning option, such as a placement with a government agency or NGO, but this depends on the course structure. Confirm with Curtin whether placement is offered and how it is arranged.

This diploma suits people already working in defence, policing, intelligence, immigration or international aid who want to move into a security-focused role. It also suits graduates from any field who want to specialise in international security without committing to a full master's degree. If you're an international student, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session. After you finish, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, which lets you stay and work in Australia. English requirements for international applicants are usually IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall for coursework postgraduate courses, but always check the exact score Curtin lists for this course. The Student visa has its own English threshold set by the Department of Home Affairs. Tuition fees are published on the CRICOS register under course code 118503H.

• Policy analyst – working in federal or state government departments such as Defence, Home Affairs or Foreign Affairs and Trade.
• Intelligence analyst – supporting agencies that assess security threats, often in Canberra or state capitals.
• Security consultant – advising private firms, critical infrastructure operators or NGOs on risk and compliance.
• Border protection officer – roles with the Australian Border Force or similar agencies.
• Defence project officer – supporting procurement, planning or operations within Defence or defence industry contractors.
• NGO program officer – working on conflict, humanitarian or peacebuilding programs in Australia or overseas.
• Risk and compliance officer – in banking, mining, transport or other sectors that face security and regulatory risks.