Course overview
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 effective critical thinking skills and specialist knowledge in international relations and security studies, preparing you to be an effective leader and decision-maker in a rapidly changing world.
Across 1.5 years of study, you’ll gain expertise in national strategy, policymaking, intelligence and law enforcement.
Under the guidance of academics with practical experience at senior-levels in policymaking and intelligence analysis, you’ll explore the traditional topics of war, peace and strategy, as well as newer dimensions of security, including environmental and climate change, disinformation and cyber power, humanitarian and cultural issues, transnational networks, and emerging technologies.
You can choose to focus your skills in a particular area of interest such as intelligence, strategy or regional security.
In your final year, you’ll develop advanced research and policymaking skills through a professional work placement or research project/dissertation.
Curtin graduates have embarked on careers in Australia and around the world, contributing to critical discussions on topics such as the AUKUS alliance, China’s expanding power, the Ukraine war and the emergence of global extremism.
Intermediate awards
You may be able to exit this course early with a Graduate Certificate in International Security or a Graduate Diploma of International Security once you have completed the required units.
Further study
If you choose to complete a research dissertation as part of this course and complete it to a high standard, you may be eligible for entry into a doctoral degree.
Career outcomes
Careers
- 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
- Federal police officer
Industries
- Defence/military
- Foreign affairs
- Intelligence
- Law enforcement
- Media and journalism
- National security
- State and federal government
Why study at Curtin?
Learn from experienced practitioners
Our staff are highly qualified academics with practical experience as senior-level practitioners in policymaking and intelligence.
Strong industry connections
Benefit from our competitive internship programs and connections to international, national and state-based employers.
Excellent reputation
Curtin’s long-standing international relations and international security program has an excellent reputation for producing job-ready graduates.
Your student experience
Work-integrated learning at Curtin: explore a Universe of opportunity
Develop real-world experience before you graduate. Learn how work-integrated learning helps you build career skills and connect with industry early.
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Not sure if uni is for you? Explore five clear reasons students choose Curtin – from flexible pathways and support to real-world skills and outcomes.
Find your entry pathway to Curtin
You may be finishing high school, coming from TAFE, or just thinking of a career change; but whatever your background, there’s an entry pathway to Curtin for you.
Upcoming events
24 May 2026
Curtin Open Day
Curtin Perth
Discover where in the world a Curtin Degree can take you at Curtin Open Day. Explore courses that connect with industry, meet people who can guide your career direction and see how your ideas can become a reality.
Entry requirements
A three- or four-year Bachelor degree in a relevant field, OR successful completion of a Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma in International Relations or related field.
Course-specific requirements
You’ll also need to meet any specific requirements to be eligible to apply for this course.
Study credit and support
You may be able to receive credit for recognised learning (CRL) from past study or professional experience, which could reduce the time it takes to finish your course.
Find specific details about CRL for this course on the Handbook.
Fees
2026 Domestic indicative fees
Domestic fee-paying first-year fee
$25,316*
Important information about fees
- *Fees are indicative only
- First year fees are based on a first-year full-time study load of 200 credit points. Your fees will vary depending on the units you choose.
- This indicative fee does not include other fees like administrative and incidental fees (such as lab coats or art supplies) or the cost of your textbooks. Visit other fees and charges for more information.
Scholarships
Get the support you need to succeed with our diverse range of scholarships. Whether it’s financial support, assistance with relocation, or recognition for your academic achievements, we have scholarships tailored to your unique needs.
How to apply
Follow these steps to make sure you’re eligible, prepared and ready to apply for your course.
Check entry requirements
Entry requirements differ by course and your previous work and study experience.
Prepare your documents
The documents you need may vary depending on your course and application pathway.
Check application deadlines
Deadlines vary by course and whether you’re applying as a domestic or international student.
Your application pathway
To apply for this course, you’ll apply directly to Curtin via our online applications portal.
Choose your preferred campus to find the application opening and closing dates for this course before you apply.
Select your preferred campus
| Intake | Applications open | Applications close |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 1, 2026 | 21 Apr 2025 | Applications now closed |
| Semester 2, 2026 | Applications now open | 5 Jul 2026 |
| Semester 1, 2027 | Applications now open | 28 Jan 2027 |
| Semester 2, 2027 | 1 Mar 2027 | 1 Jul 2027 |
Location and delivery
Thinking about starting soon? Course availability can vary by location and study period. Check the course handbook for details on when and where you can start your studies.
Explore more
Find more resources to help you take the next step in your Curtin journey.