Tomasz’ story – A Security degree from Macquarie University

Fascinated by political systems across the world, Tomasz has found himself the perfect degree in Security. He doesn't even need to step foot on campus.

Tomasz was born in Poland, and through his formative years, he developed an interest in the political situations of different countries, and how they interact with each other. “I’ve always been interested in geopolitics, since I was 12. Plenty of times I would correct teachers at school because they weren’t historically accurate.” Tomasz smirks. It’s no surprise that he ended up in Macquarie University’s Bachelor of Security Studies, after trialling a few different career options.

Tomasz previously held a Management degree, but found that it wasn’t for him. Motivated to make a change in his life, he enrolled with OUA, and was able to try out an assortment of subjects from different fields of study. “I took bits and pieces of everything that caught my attention – critical thinking, mind and body, contemporary security studies, and human rights subjects” explains Tomasz. “That gave me an idea of what worked for me. Bachelor of Security Studies I did, because I did really well with contemporary security studies. So I’m thinking, okay, you’re pretty good at this.”

Tomasz smiling in backyard

It turns out that Tomasz was right. He’s doing well in his course, and feels as fascinated as ever in the topic of security. In fact, he plans to continue onto a Masters degree, and then a PHD. “What I want to do through my PHD is to look at the impact that non-state actors have on human and environmental security”. He’s been discussing this as possible research area with his lecturer, and what specific aspects of security he is most passionate about.

When it comes to study, Tomasz believes in asking why. He advises his fellow students to be courageous, and not to fear what they might consider a stupid question. “That stupid question may be the most important one you ask in your life – so I say, go for it”.

Why study online through OUA?

Through Open Universities Australia (OUA), you can study online, at your own pace, from wherever you are. With everything you need provided in your virtual classroom, it’s simple to work your way through topics, and submit your work for assessment. There’s no need to feel alone throughout your study experience – you’ll benefit from the expert guidance and feedback of your university’s online teaching staff, the passionate community of online students, and the excellent support services provided by OUA.

Browse  thousands of courses from leading Australian universities.

Or complete the form on this page to chat to an advisor about study options.

Explore courses

Keep exploring

3 avenues in human rights, as explored by students

Does a career spent working for the rights of those around you set your heart ablaze? You might be cut out for a course in human rights. Shiree, Debbie and Alice studied related fields.  

Career spotlightMake a difference

3 essential soft skills you’ll need in the future workplace

As workplaces evolve, there's a growing demand for certain skills—and they're not all digital. Discover which human-centric skills you'll need to thrive in the office of the future. 

Future of work

3 fascinating forensics jobs in Australia

Thinking about forensics as a career? For true crime junkies and self-confessed science geeks with a penchant for justice, it might seem like the perfect choice. But what does it take to work in forensics, and what jobs are on offer in Australia?

Career spotlightMake a difference

3 reasons you’ll need human-centric skills for the future

While AI is becoming more prevalent, machines simply can't replicate the human touch.

Job tipsFuture of work