Program Overview

MA Applied Security and Strategy (MStrat)

Overview

The MA Applied Security and Strategy (MStrat) is a unique, academically rigorous and professionally focused programme designed to equip students with critical understanding of the theory, history, and practice of strategy.

Entry Requirements

We welcome applications from individuals without a degree who can demonstrate to the Programme Director through their application that they have the requisite experience and academic capability to thrive on the programme.

• Typical offer: 2:2 Honours degree
• Contextual offers: Please see our guidance on essential documentation required for an initial decision on taught programme applications.

Course Content

The MStrat provides an academically rigorous but practically oriented education in the theory and practice of strategy for professionals in the private and public sectors. The course involves three core taught modules and two optional.

• Core modules:
  • Applied Strategy in the Contemporary World (POLM233)
  • Strategy (POLM242)
  • Dissertation/Reflective Learning Portfolio (POLM243)
• Optional modules:
  • Security Futures (POLM240)
  • How to Make a Decision (POLM241)
  • Security, Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies (SPAM002)
  • Conflict, Security and Development in World Politics (POLM084)
  • Transnational Security and Terrorism (POLM308)
  • Foreign Policy Decision-Making (POLM503)
  • The West, Civilisations and World Order (POLM144)
  • State-building after Civil War (POLM088)
  • Conflict, Security and Development in Eurasia (POLM217)
  • The Geopolitics of Russia (POLM890)
  • Empire and Hierarchy in Russia and Eurasia (POLM344)
  • Chinese Foreign Policy (POLM244)
  • International Relations of the Middle East (POLM082)
  • International Organisation (POLM239)

Fees

• UK fees per year: £12,500 full-time; £6,250 part-time
• International fees per year: £25,300 full-time; £12,650 part-time

Scholarships

The University of Exeter has many different scholarships available to support your education, including £5 million in scholarships for international students applying to study with us in the 2025/26 academic year, such as our Exeter Excellence Scholarships.

Teaching and Research

Students on the MStrat will be taught by leading academics in the field of strategy and security studies, who work closely with the Armed Forces, the Ministry of Defence, and other government departments.

Careers

The MA Applied Security Strategy cohort is a diverse and talented group who together enrich the programme. Alumni on this course have pursued outstanding careers in government, the armed forces, the civil service, and in business.

Facilities

The core modules are taught in the Knightley Building, which is home to the Strategy and Security Institute (SSI). Knightley is an elegant Victorian building on the beautiful Streatham Campus in Exeter. It was specially designed for the MStrat and students will have exclusive access to modern IT and AV facilities, as well as a fitted kitchen and shower facilities.