Course Overview

About This Course

A career in international security is about making and supporting the key decisions that promote national safety and determine our collective future. This course will equip you with introductory specialist knowledge in international politics and security studies, preparing you to be an effective decision-maker in a rapidly changing world. You will learn about the key issues impacting international security policymaking and develop the necessary expertise to assist national strategy. This includes the high-level critical-thinking skills required to be an effective analyst and policymaker. Taught by academics with experience in senior-level intelligence analysis, this course will give you the requisite knowledge to find a job in international security or upskill and take your career to the next level.

Where You Can Study

Available Locations

Curtin Perth, Kent Street, Bentley WA 6102

78 Murray St, Perth, WA 6000

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Eligibility

Entry Requirements

General Requirements

Applicants for a Graduate Certificate are required to meet University academic and English language entry standards.
Applicants generally require a Bachelor Degree or equivalent credit gained for recognised learning.
Any specific course entry and completion requirements must also be met.
All Curtin courses have compulsory and other core capabilities that are essential for demonstrating the achievement of course learning outcomes and graduation.
Students who are unable to meet or demonstrate those requirements may seek reasonable adjustments by the University wherever possible to facilitate alternative ways of achieving those requirements.
English language requirements (IELTS Academic): Writing 6, Speaking 6, Reading 6, Listening 6, Overall band score 6.5.

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

Graduates may pursue careers as Strategic policy analyst, Defence policy analyst, Defence capability and procurement officer, Foreign policy officer, Military officer, Intelligence officer, Diplomatic advisor, Risk management consultant, Cybersecurity analyst, and Federal police officer. Industries include Defence/military, Foreign affairs, Intelligence, Law enforcement, Media and journalism, National security, and State and federal government.

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Academic Regulator

TEQSA

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to complete the Graduate Certificate in International Security?

The Graduate Certificate in International Security is 6 months full-time or equivalent part-time study, with intakes available in both February (Semester 1) and July (Semester 2).

What are the entry requirements for this course?

Applicants generally require a Bachelor Degree or equivalent credit gained for recognised learning, and must meet University academic and English language entry standards. English proficiency requirements include an IELTS Academic overall band score of 6.5, with minimum scores of 6 in Writing, Speaking, Reading, and Listening.

Can this certificate lead to further study?

Yes, after completing the Graduate Certificate in International Security, you will be eligible to apply for the Graduate Diploma in International Security.

What are the fees for the Graduate Certificate in International Security?

The domestic fee-paying postgraduate fee for 2026 is $12,658 (indicative, based on a first-year full-time study load). Domestic fee-paying students may be eligible for FEE-HELP assistance for all or part of their tuition fees.

Who teaches this course and what industry connections does it offer?

The course is taught by highly qualified academics with practical experience as senior-level practitioners in policymaking and intelligence. Students also benefit from competitive internship programs and connections to international, national and state-based employers in defence, foreign affairs, intelligence, and national security sectors.

Application

How to Apply

Three simple steps to get enrolled

Step 01

Enquire

Click "Enquire Now" and tell us a little about yourself. It's free and takes 2 minutes.

Step 02

Submit Documents

Our team will guide you on exactly which documents to prepare and submit.

Step 03

Get Enrolled

Receive your offer letter and confirm your enrolment. Welcome to the course!

Course Snapshot

Salary, careers & skills

Typical Salary

Entry-level (0-2 years)AUD $65,000 to $85,000 per year

Early Career (2-5 years)AUD $85,000 to $110,000 per year

Mid-Level (5-10 years)AUD $110,000 to $140,000 per year

Career Paths

Intelligence AnalystIntelligence OfficerPolicy Adviser (National Security)Strategic AnalystForeign Affairs Officer

Key Skills

Critical analysis of international security threats and geopolitical riskStrategic thinking and policy formulation in national and international security contextsIntelligence analysis and assessment using structured analytic techniquesResearch design and independent inquiry using qualitative and quantitative methodsWritten and verbal communication of complex security analyses to diverse audiences

Full Course Overview

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