Program Overview

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Master of International Security – MIntlSy

The Master of International Security is a multidisciplinary qualification that draws on strategic studies, international relations, military studies, political science, area studies, political and human geography, and complementary fields of study. This qualification will enable you to develop skills in security management, which is an increasingly important dimension of government and public policy.

Fast-track your qualification and your career

If you want to develop skills in security management, this is the qualification for you. Security management has a direct benefit to economic security and social wellbeing, so your skills will be in demand. You will learn the principles, theory, and practice of international security, gaining understanding of interagency perspectives and developing analytical and communications skills appropriate to the security context.

Follow your own interests

You will carry out independent research in a security context, enabling you to develop your own area of specialisation. You will also benefit from our close relationships with partner agencies in the security sector. Questions that you will consider include:

• What geopolitical forces shape the international security environment?
• What are the historical, geographical, and political dynamics that have shaped New Zealand's strategic environment?
• What are the causes, key protagonists, and consequences of differing types of political violence?
• What are the challenges to intervention, peace, and stabilisation operations?
• Does state building work?
• What are the new emerging threats to international security?

Entry requirements

To enter the Master of International Security, you will have been awarded or qualified for:

• a relevant bachelor's degree with a grade average of at least B-, or
• a completed Postgraduate Certificate in International Security, with at least a B- grade average, or
• a completed Postgraduate Diploma in International Security, with at least a B- Grade average,

or you will:

• be able to demonstrate scholarly work in conjunction with extensive relevant professional experience and standing in leadership, managerial, and planning positions in government or non-government security agencies appropriate for admission with equivalent status.

English language requirements

To study this qualification, you must meet Massey University's English language standards.

Prior learning, credit, and exemptions

For information on prior learning, exemptions, and transfer of credit or other questions, review the Recognition of Prior Learning regulations.

Official regulations

To understand what you need to study and must complete to graduate, read the official rules and regulations for this qualification.

Structure of the Master of International Security

The Master of International Security is a parts-based qualification. That means you must complete the first part before moving to the second. You must achieve a minimum B- grade average in the first 90 credits of courses taken in order to progress to Part Two.

Courses and specialisations

• Border and Biosecurity: Gain government-ready skills for a career in border management or biosecurity.
• Counter-Terrorism: Gain in-demand skills with Massey’s Master of International Security (Counter-Terrorism). Understand the theories, concepts, and typologies of terrorism, violent extremism, and radicalisation.
• Intelligence: With Massey’s Master of International Security (Intelligence), you’ll gain advanced knowledge of contemporary international intelligence activities in a multi-agency context.
• Without Specialisation: Advance your security career with Massey’s Master of International Security.

Credit summary

• Part One compulsory course – 30 credits
• Part One subject courses – 60 credits
• Part One elective from the Schedule – 30 credits
• Part Two research report – 60 credits

A specialisation (subject) is optional, requiring at least 120 credits from the subject (including a research project).

Fees and scholarships

2026 tuition fees

• Domestic students: $8,066
• International students: $38,840

Tuition fees are estimates only. The exact fees charged will depend on which courses you select at the time of enrolment.

Scholarship and award opportunities

• Asia New Zealand Foundation Postgraduate Research Grants
• Cat Pausé Postgraduate Scholarship
• Massey University Postgraduate Overseas Research Grant
• Massey University Postgraduate Scholarship

Careers and job opportunities

With the Master of International Security, you can expect to advance your career in the security sector in government and non-government agencies, and contribute to international security operations. This qualification will prepare you for a role in:

• analysing regional politics
• border security
• conflict resolution
• customs work
• police work
• defence forces
• peacekeeping
• policy analysis
• truce monitoring
• management
• planning
• politics
• risk management.