Master of International Security

The Master of International Security at Curtin University is a coursework degree for people who want to understand how states, institutions and non-state actors manage threats that cross borders. You will study security in its broadest sense: military and strategic affairs, but also terrorism, cyber security, intelligence, border control, peacekeeping and the politics of intervention. Units typically draw on international relations theory, security studies and public policy, with case material from the Asia-Pacific and beyond.

The degree runs for 1.5 years full time, which at Curtin usually means three trimesters of study. Each unit carries a set number of credit points, and you accumulate them across core units and electives. There is often a capstone option, a research project or policy report, in the final trimester, which lets you apply what you have learned to a real security problem. Some students choose to include a professional placement or an internship with a government agency, think tank or NGO, where the field uses it, but you should check the current handbook for what is available in your intake.

Skills you build include policy analysis, threat assessment, research and writing for decision-makers, and the ability to weigh competing evidence under uncertainty. You will learn to read intelligence estimates, draft briefings and argue a position in seminars. Classmates often come from defence, policing, immigration, journalism or recent undergraduate degrees, and that mix is part of the value.

This master's suits early-career graduates in politics, law, history or journalism, and mid-career professionals in defence, intelligence, border protection or emergency management who want a formal qualification. It also works as a pathway for those considering a doctorate later. Australian institutions structure master's degrees on the AQF, normally one to two years, and this one sits at 1.5 years. International students on a Student visa can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying, and graduates may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream. English requirements are set by Curtin and the Department of Home Affairs separately, check both. Confirm fees, intake dates and unit details on the official CRICOS page and Curtin's handbook.

• Policy officer or analyst in the Australian Public Service, particularly Defence, Home Affairs, DFAT or the Office of National Intelligence
• Intelligence analyst with state police, border force or private risk consultancies
• Security consultant for corporations, critical infrastructure or event management
• Program officer with NGOs and international organisations working on conflict, refugees or peacebuilding
• Journalist or researcher covering defence, foreign affairs and national security
• Further study, a PhD in political science, international relations or security studies