Graduate Certificate of National Security Policy

Upon successful completion of the study, students should be able to:

1. Demonstrate a multidisciplinary understanding of contemporary and emerging national security challenges affecting Australia.
2. Develop a working understanding of the context, processes, challenges and options for national security policy and implementation.
3. Communicate ideas, analysis and arguments on national security issues.

The Graduate Certificate of National Security Policy offers a world-class qualification for national security professionals. This program provides an introduction to National Security concepts and practical policy skills, with a focus on navigating the Australian security landscape. Students will gain an in-depth understanding of the security challenges that confront countries in our region and the world and enhance their capacity to lead or contribute to policy development and security practice in government and related sectors. Elective courses examine a wide range of present and future risks, such as pandemics, climate change, terrorism and cyber attacks.

The National Security College is a unique joint initiative between the Australian National University and the Australian Government. Join a network of experienced national security practitioners and policy-makers at the National Security College and graduate with a world-class qualification.

Recommended study pattern

As a guide, core subjects in this degree can include: 

• National Security Policymaking
• Ethical Challenges for National Security
• Cyber and Emerging Technologies in National Security
• Gender and Security

As part of your application, you’ll be guided through how to get the right degree structure in place for you. 

Award requirements

The Graduate Certificate of National Security Policy requires the successful completion of 24 units from the specified courses in relevant areas.

Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.

Indicative total fee $16,760

The amount shown here is indicative for an Australian citizen studying full-time, which is typically 8 subjects per year.

Fees may vary depending on:

• the subjects you choose
• credit from previous work experience
• your eligibility for government funding loans or subsidies such as HECS-HELP or a Commonwealth supported place.

To learn more, go to Fees or contact a student advisor.

Australian National University is a world-leading university in Australia’s capital city, Canberra. With ties to the Australian Government, they have special standing as a resource for the Australian people. Their approach to education ensures graduates are in demand the world-over for their abilities to address complex contemporary challenges. Offering innovative online subjects from beginning to advanced levels through Open Universities Australia, they meet varied students’ needs and goals.

Learn more about ANU.

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QS World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

4

Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

4

At a minimum, all applicants must meet program-specific academic/non-academic requirements, and English language requirements. Admission to most ANU programs is on a competitive basis. Therefore, meeting all admission requirements does not automatically guarantee entry.

• Bachelor or international equivalent with GPA 4/7; or
• Graduate Diploma or international equivalent with a GPA 4/7; or
• Graduate Certificate or international equivalent with a GPA 4/7; or
• 24 units of courses in a postgraduate program with a GPA of 4/7.

• GRE General test, completed no more than 5 years before the time of application, with a minimum score of 155 for Verbal Reasoning, 155 for Quantitative Reasoning and 4.0 in Analytical Writing and a minimum of 3 years full-time equivalent work experience at ANZSCO Skill Level 1 in a field related to the program; or
• A minimum 5 years full-time equivalent work experience at ANZSCO Skill Level 1 in a field related to the program.

Applications must show English language proficiency by meeting ANU's English Language Requirements for admission to study this course.

Contact Crawford.Enquiries@anu.edu.au for case by case information.