Master of International and Security Law

Postgraduate | 2026

Degree hero banner
Mode
Mode
Mode
Your study is primarily delivered on campus
On Campus
Start date icon
Start date
Start date
The month you will commence your studies. Exact start date is outlined in the course timetable.
February, July
Duration icon
Duration
Duration
Duration is approximate and based on a full-time study load. Part-time study is not available for international students.
2 year(s) full-time
Program code
Program code
MAISL
Study as icon
Study as
Full-time
Fees
Indicative annual fees
Indicative annual fees
Published fees are indicative for 2025 , including the compulsory Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) and appropriate yearly indexation. This is based on the total number of units studied for this program on an annual full-time basis. Please note that your tuition fees may be subject to an annual increase.
$52,300
Prerequisites icon
Prerequisite
Prerequisite
A prerequisite is a required course or/subject that you must have successfully completed before you can enrol into this program.
None
Assumed knowledge icon
Assumed knowledge
Assumed knowledge
Assumed knowledge, while not essential, is where you have a minimum level of understanding in the relevant course area.
None
English Language Requirements icon
English language requirements
IELTS Overall 6.5 IELTS Reading 6.0 IELTS Listening 6.0 IELTS Speaking 6.0 IELTS Writing 6.0 Equivalent English qualifications
CRICOS Code icon
CRICOS code
115924M
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Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate they fulfil any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

  • A completed bachelor (AQF level 7) or bachelor honours (AQF level 8) degree or equivalent from a recognised higher education institution with a competitive Grade Point Average (GPA); OR
  • A completed Graduate Diploma in Law or Graduate Certificate in Law.

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

  • IELTS Overall 6.5
  • IELTS Reading 6.0
  • IELTS Listening 6.0
  • IELTS Speaking 6.0
  • IELTS Writing 6.0

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:

Equivalent English qualifications

Why Master of International and Security Law?

Enhance your global perspective. Prevent threats to peace.

International security law is evolving quickly to keep up with new global challenges. These laws regulate the dynamics of global peace, conflict, and diplomacy. They cover everything from cybersecurity threats to humanitarian crises and territorial disputes.

Experts in this field work to understand, protect and enforce the rules that keep our world connected, helping to keep the peace around the globe.

Discover the intricacies of the modern legal landscape and become a pioneer for global reform and cooperation.

program overview

Overview

The state of international security law globally is characterised by emerging threats and changing geopolitical dynamics. Learn the rules and strategies that keep nations safe, promoting justice and equality in our Master of International and Security Law.

Engage with global experts and build advanced legal skills. Develop sound knowledge in legal argument, research and writing.

Broaden your view on the world’s security practices. Hone your skills in electives and research components that align with your interests. Develop an advanced understanding of principles of law in relation to international and national security.

Connect with leading overseas universities to broaden your scope of learning. Gain the knowledge needed to pursue policy development, compliance and legal practice. Graduate a specialist across the laws that govern cultures, societies and disciplines. Be ready to secure work in places that protect our seas, govern sanctions and confront terrorism.

What you'll learn

Our Master of International and Security Law will provide you with an advanced understanding of principles of law in relation to international and national security. This degree provides a range of elective courses for those with interests in international and security law. You’ll also develop your skills in legal research and writing.

Your studies will begin with an introduction to Australian and public international law. Explore Australian law and its legal system, its history and issues of supremacy of law.

The research component will come from a variety of streams, suited to your learning preferences. Maybe you’ll choose to complete a PhD research pathway. You’ll work toward completing a dissertation critiquing the operation of law from a policy perspective.

You might like to complete a law research project, focusing on advanced legal research. Build upon the knowledge from previous courses to explore an area of law that interests you at a higher level.

Perhaps you may want to choose the option to complete multiple research essays. Whichever you choose, you’ll be guided by experts and supervisors in their respective fields.

To complete your degree, you’ll choose from an extensive list of law-based electives. Discover topics like international criminal law, humanitarian law, law of naval warfare and nuclear regulatory law.

Tailor your degree to areas of interest and align your research component and electives with future career aspirations.

What courses you'll study

Complete 96 units comprising:

  • 12 units for all Core courses, and
  • 12 to 24 units for Discipline courses, and
  • 60 to 72 units for Electives

Complete 12 units for ALL of the following:

Course name Course code Units
course icon
Course name
Introduction to Australian Law
Course code
LAWS5058
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Public International Law
Course code
LAWS6007
Units
6

Complete 12 to 24 units for one of the following:

  • 24 units for all PhD pathway, or
  • 18 units for all Research pathway 1, or
  • 12 units for all Research pathway 2

Course name Course code Units
course icon
Course name
Dissertation (PG)
Course code
LAWS5003
Units
12
course icon
Course name
Advanced Legal Research and Writing
Course code
LAWS5063
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Law Research Project
Course code
LAWS5066
Units
6

Course name Course code Units
course icon
Course name
Dissertation (PG)
Course code
LAWS5003
Units
12
course icon
Course name
Advanced Legal Research and Writing
Course code
LAWS5063
Units
6

Course name Course code Units
course icon
Course name
Advanced Legal Research and Writing
Course code
LAWS5063
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Law Research Project
Course code
LAWS5066
Units
6

Complete 60 to 72 units for one of the following:

  • 60 units from Program electives - PhD pathway, or
  • 66 units from Program electives - Research pathway 1, or
  • 72 units from Program electives - Research pathway 2

Course name Course code Units
course icon
Course name
Anti-discrimination Law: Practice and Theory PG
Course code
LAWS5004
Units
6
course icon
Course name
International Environmental Law (PG)
Course code
LAWS5006
Units
6
course icon
Course name
AI and Technology: Legal and Security Issues
Course code
LAWS5007
Units
6
course icon
Course name
International Criminal Law (PG)
Course code
LAWS5018
Units
6
course icon
Course name
International Commercial and Trade Law
Course code
LAWS5020
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Counter Terrorism and National Security Law
Course code
LAWS5022
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Transitional Justice (PG)
Course code
LAWS5023
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Human Rights: International Perspectives (PG)
Course code
LAWS5029
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Perspectives on Property Law & Society
Course code
LAWS5031
Units
6
course icon
Course name
International Humanitarian Law
Course code
LAWS5035
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Introduction to Arbitration
Course code
LAWS5040
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Advanced Arbitration
Course code
LAWS5041
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Cyber Security and Cyber Conflict Law
Course code
LAWS5048
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Selected Issues - Military Operations Law
Course code
LAWS5051
Units
6
course icon
Course name
The Law of Weaponry
Course code
LAWS5052
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Strategic Space Law
Course code
LAWS5053
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Maritime Law and Geopolitics in the Asian Region
Course code
LAWS5054
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Advanced Comparative Law
Course code
LAWS5055
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Contemporary Issues in Law
Course code
LAWS5059
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Law of Naval Warfare
Course code
LAWS5061
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Defence Contracting Law
Course code
LAWS5062
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Commercial Space Law
Course code
LAWS5064
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Government, Law and Policy
Course code
LAWS5065
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Federal Criminal and Defence Discipline Law
Course code
LAWS5067
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Law of Air Warfare
Course code
LAWS5068
Units
6
course icon
Course name
International Humanitarian Law and Disruptive Technology
Course code
LAWS5069
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Nuclear Regulatory Law
Course code
LAWS5070
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Business and Corporations Law
Course code
LAWS6005
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Public International Law
Course code
LAWS6007
Units
6

Course name Course code Units
course icon
Course name
Anti-discrimination Law: Practice and Theory PG
Course code
LAWS5004
Units
6
course icon
Course name
International Environmental Law (PG)
Course code
LAWS5006
Units
6
course icon
Course name
AI and Technology: Legal and Security Issues
Course code
LAWS5007
Units
6
course icon
Course name
International Criminal Law (PG)
Course code
LAWS5018
Units
6
course icon
Course name
International Commercial and Trade Law
Course code
LAWS5020
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Counter Terrorism and National Security Law
Course code
LAWS5022
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Transitional Justice (PG)
Course code
LAWS5023
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Human Rights: International Perspectives (PG)
Course code
LAWS5029
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Perspectives on Property Law & Society
Course code
LAWS5031
Units
6
course icon
Course name
International Humanitarian Law
Course code
LAWS5035
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Introduction to Arbitration
Course code
LAWS5040
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Advanced Arbitration
Course code
LAWS5041
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Cyber Security and Cyber Conflict Law
Course code
LAWS5048
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Selected Issues - Military Operations Law
Course code
LAWS5051
Units
6
course icon
Course name
The Law of Weaponry
Course code
LAWS5052
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Strategic Space Law
Course code
LAWS5053
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Maritime Law and Geopolitics in the Asian Region
Course code
LAWS5054
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Advanced Comparative Law
Course code
LAWS5055
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Contemporary Issues in Law
Course code
LAWS5059
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Law of Naval Warfare
Course code
LAWS5061
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Defence Contracting Law
Course code
LAWS5062
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Commercial Space Law
Course code
LAWS5064
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Government, Law and Policy
Course code
LAWS5065
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Federal Criminal and Defence Discipline Law
Course code
LAWS5067
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Law of Air Warfare
Course code
LAWS5068
Units
6
course icon
Course name
International Humanitarian Law and Disruptive Technology
Course code
LAWS5069
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Nuclear Regulatory Law
Course code
LAWS5070
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Business and Corporations Law
Course code
LAWS6005
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Public International Law
Course code
LAWS6007
Units
6

Course name Course code Units
course icon
Course name
Anti-discrimination Law: Practice and Theory PG
Course code
LAWS5004
Units
6
course icon
Course name
International Environmental Law (PG)
Course code
LAWS5006
Units
6
course icon
Course name
AI and Technology: Legal and Security Issues
Course code
LAWS5007
Units
6
course icon
Course name
International Criminal Law (PG)
Course code
LAWS5018
Units
6
course icon
Course name
International Commercial and Trade Law
Course code
LAWS5020
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Counter Terrorism and National Security Law
Course code
LAWS5022
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Transitional Justice (PG)
Course code
LAWS5023
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Human Rights: International Perspectives (PG)
Course code
LAWS5029
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Perspectives on Property Law & Society
Course code
LAWS5031
Units
6
course icon
Course name
International Humanitarian Law
Course code
LAWS5035
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Introduction to Arbitration
Course code
LAWS5040
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Advanced Arbitration
Course code
LAWS5041
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Cyber Security and Cyber Conflict Law
Course code
LAWS5048
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Selected Issues - Military Operations Law
Course code
LAWS5051
Units
6
course icon
Course name
The Law of Weaponry
Course code
LAWS5052
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Strategic Space Law
Course code
LAWS5053
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Maritime Law and Geopolitics in the Asian Region
Course code
LAWS5054
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Advanced Comparative Law
Course code
LAWS5055
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Contemporary Issues in Law
Course code
LAWS5059
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Law of Naval Warfare
Course code
LAWS5061
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Defence Contracting Law
Course code
LAWS5062
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Commercial Space Law
Course code
LAWS5064
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Government, Law and Policy
Course code
LAWS5065
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Federal Criminal and Defence Discipline Law
Course code
LAWS5067
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Law of Air Warfare
Course code
LAWS5068
Units
6
course icon
Course name
International Humanitarian Law and Disruptive Technology
Course code
LAWS5069
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Nuclear Regulatory Law
Course code
LAWS5070
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Business and Corporations Law
Course code
LAWS6005
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Public International Law
Course code
LAWS6007
Units
6

How to apply

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Check your eligibility

Before you begin, find the degree you wish to study and check you meet the academic entry requirements and English language requirements.

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Gather your relevant documents

Ensure you have all supporting documentation needed at the time of application to avoid delays.

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Complete and send your application

Apply through one of the University’s official agency partners, or via our online application system.

How to Apply

How to apply

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026. 

Apply through one of the University’s official Education Agents, or via our International Application System.  

Find an Education Agent 

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be required to apply through one of our Education Agents. 

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.


Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025. Applications will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs.

Applications to study a 100% online degree will open in July 2025 via a direct application process.

In the meantime, you could start your studies at UniSA or the University of Adelaide in 2025 and continue on to Adelaide University in 2026.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university. 

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus. 

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

  • Academic learning support, spanning assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
  • Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities. 
  • Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
  • Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
  • Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
  • On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
  • Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, and academic policies and procedures.
  • An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
  • Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
  • Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
  • A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
  • A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission. 

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

  • February for Semester 1  
  • July for Semester 2. 

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view the Academic calendar. 

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources. 

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them. 

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more. 

Student services 

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including: 

  • Career advice and mentoring services 
  • Personal counselling 
  • LGBTQIA+ support 
  • Academic support 
  • Fees and finance help 
  • Security services 
  • Accommodation services 
  • Common rooms 
  • Prayer rooms. 

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more. 

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces. 

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week. 

 

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: 

  • Case studies  
  • Essays and assignments  
  • Examinations  
  • Group projects  
  • Internships and placements  
  • Practicals  
  • Presentations  
  • Reports and project documentations 
  • Research projects 
  • Workplace and classroom contributions. 
Graduates

Explore Adelaide University

Accommodation options

Considering calling Adelaide home? Explore accommodation options to find a place that's right for you.

Rundle Mall shopping

Life in Adelaide

Discover why Adelaide is one of the most liveable cities in the world.

Ebenezer Place shopping and cafes, bikes, bicycles

Scholarships

Our scholarships can provide the helping hand you need to transition into university life.

Taken during Orientation Week