Programme details

Master of Strategic Studies – MSS

Pursue a career with a global perspective. Gain comprehensive insights into international strategic and security matters through a prestigious one-year degree.

Course description

Develop a thorough practical and theoretical understanding of how power is exercised, exploring the management of conflict and the maintenance of security on a global scale.

Gain insights into critical geopolitical issues of our time, including the dynamics between the US and China, cybersecurity, the South China Sea, and strategic approaches to terrorism and civil conflict.

Enhance your policy, analytical, and research skills while advancing your career through a globally connected Strategic Studies program.

Studying at the School of History, Philosophy, Political Science, and International Relations, you will be part of an integrated Political Science and International Relations program, accessing a wide array of relevant courses and expertise.

Leverage the program’s location in the nation’s capital and its close ties with the policy, diplomatic, and security communities. Build connections and acquire practical experience through seminars, roundtables, and guest lectures.

Immigration benefits

This course may qualify for the following visa rights:
In-study work rights
Partner visitor rights
Partner work rights
Post-study work rights

This course qualifies for 5 points if applying for residency under the Skilled Migrant Category.

Career Prospects

Acquire the expertise required to excel in the broader security community, encompassing government, research organizations, think tanks, civil society, and the private sector.

Potential career paths include roles in policy, research, assessment, or analysis within organizations focused on foreign affairs, defense, or intelligence.

The program boasts a strong track record of securing internships both in New Zealand and internationally, providing an excellent foundation for launching or advancing your career locally or globally.

Entry requirements

Academic
– A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant area, with at least a B grade average in 60 points of 300-level courses in the majoring subject or or relevant area of study
– To be accepted by the programme director as capable of proceeding with the proposed course of study

EL requirement (any one of the following)
– IELTS (Academic): Minimum overall score of 6.5, with no sub-score below 6.0
– TOEFL (Internet-based test): Minimum score of 90, with at least 20 in writing
– Pearson Test of English: Minimum score of 58, with a ‘Communicative’ score of no less than 50
– EAP: Minimum final scores of 4, 4, 5, 5
– Cambridge English Qualifications: C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency with a score of 176 or higher, with each skill score no less than 169
– New Zealand Certificates in English Language (NZCEL): Level 5 (Academic)
– NZAPA: English New Zealand Accredited Pathway Assessment Level 3, with no skill lower than Level 2

To gain admission to this program, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Possess a Bachelor of Design Innovation or Graduate Diploma in Design Innovation from this university, with a minimum B average, or an equivalent qualification approved by the university.

2. Receive approval from the Head of School, demonstrating your capability to successfully undertake the proposed course of study.