MSc Strategic Studies at University of Aberdeen

Programme overview

The MSc in Strategic Studies advances your understanding of the use of force in conflict and provides you with the ability to scrutinise real-world security issues which challenge governments, armed services, international organisations, and businesses globally. This course has January and September start dates. Apply Now.

Duration: 1 year (12 months) or 2 years (24 months) | Study mode: full-time / part-time | Intake: January / September | Location: Aberdeen, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Stage 1 compulsory courses: Getting Started at the University of Aberdeen.

Career pathways

The MSc in Strategic Studies has produced graduates of high repute with excellent career prospects for over thirty years, with an international network of alumni who have gone on to become intelligence and political analysts, policy advisors, government and defence officials, researchers, and more.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Applicants for admission will normally be expected to hold a relevant Honours degree with a 2:2 standard from a recognised university or body. Applicants without this qualification may be admitted subject to having an alternative qualification, or an approved level of work experience appropriate to the field of study.

Domestic applicants: GBP 11,100 a year (2026/27). UK fee. Reduced rate (University of Aberdeen Graduates): £7,000. Source

International applicants: GBP 23,000 a year (2026/27). EU / international fee. Reduced rate (Self-funded Students): £15,000. Source

Intake: January / September

Duration: 1 year (12 months) or 2 years (24 months)

Apply through the official page: https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-taught/how-to-apply/

Explore more study programmes

Arts & Humanities