Course summary
- Learn to think critically and strategically to tackle emerging security challenges in an increasingly unstable world.
- Engage with real-world scenarios through interactive workshops, a field trip, and a simulated exercise to enhance practical skills.
- Our core module Applied Strategy in the Contemporary World (POLM233) combines theoretical knowledge with practical tools to develop strategic expertise, making it invaluable for roles requiring fast-paced, high-level analysis and decision-making in the public and private sectors.
- Choose from optional modules aligned with your career aspirations, including global security, AI and emerging technologies, and decision-making.
- Complete a traditional dissertation or focus on a work-related project with a reflective learning portfolio.
- Study with experts addressing contemporary threats like great power competition, regional conflicts, and technological disruptions.
- Participate in weekly seminars led by leaders from the Strategy and Security Institute’s extensive network of honorary fellows.
- The course is available for full-time or part-time study, with classes timetabled to ensure maximum convenience for those in employment. It will be taught mid-week over two days.
- Join a community of students who go on to successful careers in government, defence, intelligence, and beyond.
- We recognise that many professionals in defence and security, such as those in the Armed Forces, entered their careers without a first degree. 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.
Modules
For a full list of compulsory and optional modules please visit our course page.
Assessment method
Please visit our course page for current assessment methods.
How to apply
International applicants
Our International Student Support can help you with what you need to do before you arrive and when you get here as a new international student. They offer ongoing support throughout your studies whether that be setting up a bank account or arranging healthcare. Our Global Chums Buddy Scheme and our Intercultural Cafe provide opportunities to meet staff and connect with students. INTO University of Exeter provide pre-sessional English courses for international students as well as free insessional support. For more information about entry requirements, bursaries and scholarships and how to apply please visit our course page.
Entry requirements
For applicants with an undergraduate degree, our typical offer is a 2:2 Honours degree or above (or equivalent). We recognise that many professionals in defence and security, such as those in the Armed Forces, entered their careers without a first degree. 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. You should use your Personal Statement to provide additional information such as: Why you want to study this course at the University of Exeter. What personal qualities make you suitable for postgraduate study. Any relevant background (work experience or academic attainment). Career/future ambitions and how the course will help you achieve them. The Programme Director (see above) welcomes pre-application conversations. For full details, including English language requirements and international equivalencies, please visit our course page.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
No fee information has been provided for this course
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
Sponsorship information
We invest heavily in scholarships for talented prospective Masters students. This is in addition to the UK Government’s Postgraduate Loan Scheme. For information on how you can fund your postgraduate degree at the University of Exeter, please visit our course page.
Provider information
University of Exeter
Northcote House
The Queen's Drive
Exeter
EX4 4QJ