Master of Philosophy (National Security College) (CRICOS course code 074011G) is a Masters Degree (Research) delivered by Australian National University over 2 years. This research-intensive program is designed for students interested in advanced study of national security policy and politics, offered at ANU's Canberra City West campus. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider code 00120C), it meets Australian Government standards for international education. The course falls under the field of Political Science and Policy Studies, providing a deep understanding of national security challenges and policy responses. Graduates emerge with strong research skills and policy expertise relevant to government, defence, and international organisations. Studying at the Australian National University, ranked among the world's top universities, offers access to leading scholars and the nation's capital with proximity to key government institutions. International students benefit from ESOS Act protections and the rights afforded to Student visa (Subclass 500) holders. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000 courses available in Australia, this program stands out for its focus on national security research. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a free resource, sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026.
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The Master of Philosophy (National Security College) at Australian National University (CRICOS 00120C) is a Masters Degree (Research) (AQF Level 9) under the field of Political Science and Policy Studies (090100). This course provides a platform for original research in national security, supervised by expert faculty. As a CRICOS-registered program (074011G), it qualifies international students for a Student visa (Subclass 500). The program does not include a work component or dual qualification. It is delivered on-campus at Canberra City West, ACT, with English as the language of instruction. Canberra is home to dozens of CRICOS-registered providers and a vibrant student community. The indicative tuition fee is $113,760 for the full program, plus non-tuition fees of $746, totalling $114,506. However, fees are subject to change and do not include OSHC, living costs, or visa application charges. For the most current fees, always check the ANU website.
This course falls under the broad field of Society and Culture, specifically Political Science and Policy Studies. At the Masters Degree (Research) level, students engage in supervised research leading to a thesis. The program emphasises critical analysis of national security issues, policy formulation, and strategic studies. Graduates develop advanced research skills, policy analysis capabilities, and a deep understanding of security governance. While specific curriculum details are available from ANU, typical research areas include defence policy, intelligence, counterterrorism, and international security. This research degree prepares students for careers in government, think tanks, academia, and international organisations. The program is particularly suited to Canberra's role as the national capital and policy hub.
The course duration is 2 years (104 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is a single qualification, not a dual degree. The language of instruction is English. There are no foundation studies components, and it is not a VET course (no national code). Students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with visa conditions. The program is research-intensive, requiring independent study and regular supervision meetings. On-campus attendance at Canberra City West is required. International students on Subclass 500 visas must maintain satisfactory course progress and attendance. The standard full-time load is typically 40 weeks per year. Students have access to ANU's research facilities and libraries.
The indicative fees for this course, sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026, are as follows: Tuition: A$113,760; Non-tuition fees: A$746; Estimated total: A$114,506. Note: These fees do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or the visa application charge. International students should budget for OSHC (approximately A$600–A$1,000 per year), living expenses (accommodation, food, transport) estimated at A$21,000–A$30,000 per year in Canberra, and the student visa application charge (currently A$710, subject to change). These figures are indicative only. Always confirm fees with ANU before applying. HeadStart Academy provides fee data from the official CRICOS register without any referral commissions.
Entry requirements for this Masters Degree (Research) program typically include completion of a relevant bachelor's degree with honours or a master's degree with a research component. International students must demonstrate English language proficiency, usually via IELTS, with scores typically ranging from 6.0 to 7.0 overall, or equivalent. For specific requirements, refer to Australian National University. Some applicants may be required to submit a research proposal or provide evidence of research experience. There are no foundation studies pathways for this course. English language requirements vary by provider; for this level, a score of 6.5 or higher is common. Always check the provider's official page for current entry criteria.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, international students on a Student visa (Subclass 500) can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. This allows students to gain work experience while studying. The university may offer optional internships or research assistantships, but these are not part of the CRICOS-registered course. ESOS Act protections ensure that students have clear information about their course requirements. For advice on work rights, consult the Department of Home Affairs. Student visa holders must not exceed their work limitation to maintain visa compliance.
The course is delivered at Australian National University's campus in Canberra City West, ACT. Canberra is the capital of Australia and a centre for government and policy. The city has over 20 CRICOS-registered providers offering a range of courses. Living costs in Canberra are moderate compared to Sydney and Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around $400–$550, groceries $80–$120, and public transport $40–$60. The campus is accessible via bus and light rail. Studying in Canberra offers proximity to key national institutions like Parliament House, the Department of Defence, and various think tanks.
International students enrolling in this CRICOS-registered course are eligible to apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, maintaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrating sufficient financial capacity. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. It is important to comply with visa conditions to avoid cancellation. For detailed visa guidance, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA). HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent and does not provide immigration advice.
Follow these steps to apply for the Master of Philosophy (National Security College) at Australian National University:
Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers filter by course level (Masters Degree (Research)), field (Political Science and Policy Studies), and location (ACT). Ensure the provider and course are CRICOS-registered.
Step 2: Apply directly to Australian National University. Check entry requirements, English language test scores (e.g., IELTS), and application deadlines. Prepare your research proposal and supporting documents.
Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from ANU and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500). Include proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statements.
Canberra offers a unique study environment as Australia's policy and political hub. With a population of over 400,000, it is home to a diverse student population from around the world. The city is known for its safety, clean environment, and high quality of life. Public transport connects the ANU campus to the city centre and suburbs. Canberra's job market includes opportunities in government, research, and education. Consider your lifestyle preferences: Canberra has a cooler climate than coastal cities, and offers numerous parks and cultural attractions. Living costs are lower than Sydney or Melbourne, but higher than regional areas. This city is ideal for students focused on policy and national security studies.
Start your application journey today by checking ANU's official course page and following the steps above.
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Master of Philosophy (National Security College) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Australian National University. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.