Develop a deep practical and theoretical understanding of the ways power is exercised. Explore how conflict is managed and security maintained across the globe.
You will get insights into the pressing geopolitical issues of our age, such as the relationship between the US and China, cybersecurity, the South China Sea, and strategic responses to the problems of terrorism and civil conflict.
Enhance your policy, analytical and research skills and accelerate your career with a globally connected Strategic Studies programme.
Studying with the School of History, Philosophy, Political Science and International Relations, you will join a fully integrated Political Science and International Relations programme, giving you access to a broad range of relevant courses and expertise.
Take advantage of the programme’s location in the nation’s capital and close relationship with the policy, diplomatic and security communities. You will develop connections and get practical expertise through seminars, roundtables and guest lectures.
Work with internationally recognised staff who are prominent researchers, teachers and commentators on strategic and security issues.
Studying the Master of Strategic Studies at Victoria University of Wellington is great because of the high quality of teaching by experts on the subject.
Full storySarah Pereira
Master of Strategic Studies student
You will study alongside the Centre for Strategic Studies (CSS), our globally-ranked think-tank at Victoria University of Wellington. This will give you the opportunities to attend seminars and workshops organized by CSS that feature leading scholars and practitioners from across the region and the world.
You can complete either qualification in a year, giving you a fast-track to specialist expertise in Strategic Studies.
Join a school with a focus on fostering its postgraduate community. Enjoy the benefits of strong relationships with staff, a thriving research culture and practical support through postgraduate seminars and events. You will get to hear leading speakers from overseas including the annual lecture by the Kippenberger Visiting Professor in Strategic Studies.
The Postgraduate Students' Association can give you information and provides a voice for you on campus.
Live and study in New Zealand's creative, compact and vibrant capital. As well as the country’s political, diplomatic and security hub, Wellington is a harbour city with easy access to the great outdoors.
Gain the expertise needed to work in the wider security community, including government, research organisations and think tanks, civil society and the private sector.
You might work in policy, research, assessment or analysis jobs in organisations with a foreign affairs, defence or intelligence role.
The programme has a successful track record of getting internships in New Zealand and overseas—a good way to set up your career here or further afield.
I’ve had amazing opportunities at the University...such as an internship to the United States Congress in Washington D.C. and securing a graduate position job.
Full storySarah Pereira
Master of Strategic Studies student
If you are a New Zealand citizen you can apply for the Freyberg Scholarship.
You can apply for the Terence O’Brien scholarship if you are studying international governance or some aspect of multilateral diplomacy or cooperation.
If you are an international student you may want to look at scholarships offered by the New Zealand Government.
You can also look for scholarships based on your level of study, subject area and background.
You may be able to get work tutoring first-year courses and courses associated with your areas of specialisation.
The capability boost you get from doing an MSS means your employer may be willing to pay some or all of your costs.
Find guidelines for Master's study, research grant information and other useful links on the Faculty's Postgraduate Resources page.
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