Course details

Master of International Security – MIntlSy
NZQF Level 9

About the course

The Master of International Security is a multidisciplinary qualification. It draws on strategic studies, international relations, military studies, political science, area studies, political and human geography and complementary fields of study.

Fast-track your qualification and your career

If you want to develop skills in security management, this is the qualification for you. Security management is an increasingly important dimension of government and public policy. It has a direct benefit to economic security and social wellbeing, so your skills will be in demand.

Follow your own interests

You will learn the principles, theory and practice of international security. You’ll gain understanding of interagency perspectives. You’ll also develop analytical and communications skills appropriate to the security context.

You will carry out independent research in a security context. This will enable 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

Entry requirements

Admission to Massey

All students must meet university entrance requirements to be admitted to the University.

Specific 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.

If you have a Postgraduate Certificate in International Security or Postgraduate Diploma in International Security from Massey University as outlined above, you may apply for credit towards Part One of the qualification.

You will need to provide copies of all official academic transcripts for studies taken at all universities other than Massey University.

If you are applying on the basis of  scholarly work in conjunction with extensive relevant professional experience you must also provide a copy of your current curriculum vitae (CV).

English language requirements

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

Time limits for Honours, Distinction and Merit

Where your qualification is completed within the stated time limit and to a high standard, you may be able to graduate with Distinction or Merit. 

Prior learning, credit and exemptions

For information on prior learning, exemptions and transfer of credit or other questions:

English language skills

If you need help with your English language skills before you start university, see our English for Academic Purposes (EAP) courses.

Maximum time limits for completion

There are maximum time limits to complete postgraduate qualifications.  If you do not complete within the maximum time, you may be required to re-apply for the qualification if you wish to continue your studies.

Official regulations

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

You should read these together with all other relevant Statutes and Regulations of the University including the General Regulations for Postgraduate Degrees, Postgraduate Diplomas, and Postgraduate Certificates.

Returning students

For returning students, there may be changes to the majors and minors available and the courses you need to take. Go to the section called ‘Transitional Provisions’ in the Regulations to find out more.

In some cases the qualification or specialisation you enrolled in may no longer be taking new enrolments, so may not appear on these web pages. To find information on the regulations for these qualifications go to the Massey University Calendar.

Please contact us through the Get advice button on this page if you have any questions.

About the provider

Massey University - Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa is a leading New Zealand university, world-renowned for unique practical qualifications, ground-breaking research, and online courses. 

Each year over 5,000 international students from more than 100 countries find a warm welcome at Massey. We are ranked in the top 250 universities in the world by QS World Rankings and have a well-established reputation for academic leadership, research excellence and innovative teaching.


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