A Master of Strategy and Defence is a postgraduate qualification designed to develop high-level analytical, research, and policy skills in the fields of strategic studies, military affairs, national security, and defence policy. The course explores the theory and practice of strategy, the conduct of war and military operations, deterrence, geopolitics, and the complex relationship between foreign policy and defence decision-making. Students engage critically with historical and contemporary case studies drawn from Australia, the Asia-Pacific region, and global environments, developing the intellectual tools to evaluate strategic choices and navigate an evolving global security order. Programs typically run from one to two years full-time (or part-time equivalent) and may be completed in person or online, making them accessible to working professionals in the defence and security sectors.

The course is designed for a broad range of students, including military officers, public servants, diplomats, intelligence professionals, policy analysts, researchers, and graduates seeking to launch careers in national security and strategic affairs. It suits both those already working in the defence and security sector who wish to deepen their expertise, and graduates from disciplines such as political science, international relations, history, law, economics, and the social sciences who want to pivot into this specialised field. Programs are typically taught by leading academics, former senior defence officials, and practitioners with direct government and military experience, providing a rich blend of scholarly insight and real-world perspective.

Key employers of graduates include the Australian Department of Defence, the Australian Defence Force (ADF), the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), the Department of Home Affairs, the Office of National Intelligence (ONI), the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO), the Australian Secret Intelligence Service (ASIS), the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, Australian think tanks such as the Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI) and the Lowy Institute, international organisations, and private sector consultancies specialising in strategic risk, defence industry, and government advisory services.

Most Australian providers of master's-level strategy and defence programs require applicants to hold a bachelor's degree in a cognate discipline, typically from fields including political science, international relations, history, law, economics, security studies, social sciences, philosophy, or engineering. A minimum GPA of around 5.0 out of 7.0 (or equivalent) is commonly required for direct entry into the master's program, though some providers accept a lower GPA if combined with a relevant postgraduate certificate or graduate diploma. Cognate disciplines are broadly interpreted, and applicants from non-traditional backgrounds may still be considered if they can demonstrate strong analytical and written communication skills. Admission is competitive at most providers, and meeting minimum requirements does not automatically guarantee a place.

For applicants who do not meet standard academic requirements, alternative entry pathways are available. Many programs accept applicants who hold a relevant Graduate Certificate combined with a qualifying GPA, a Graduate Diploma, or at least three years of full-time equivalent professional work experience at a senior level (ANZSCO Skill Level 1) in a related field such as the defence force, public service, law, intelligence, policy advising, or the private security sector. Some providers also accept applicants with ten or more years of senior-level professional experience as a direct entry pathway, even without a prior postgraduate qualification. This makes the degree accessible to mid-career professionals seeking formal credentials to complement their practical experience.

International applicants must satisfy English language proficiency requirements. The standard benchmark across Australian universities is an Academic IELTS score of at least 6.5 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in each band, or equivalent scores in accepted tests such as TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, or Cambridge C1 Advanced. Applicants who completed undergraduate studies at an Australian institution, or in recognised English-speaking countries, are typically exempt from additional English testing requirements. Some providers also require a personal statement or statement of purpose, and may request a writing sample or CV demonstrating relevant professional experience.