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MA in Defence Studies

 

*Please note this programme is only available to Military students enrolled on the Advanced Command and Staff Course at the Defence Academy of the UK*


 

A multi-disciplinary programme designed to offer a path through the study of all aspects relating to defence by active learning and building knowledge through participation, both individually and in collaboration between students.

The MA programme builds on the Advance Command and Staff Course (ACSC) and comprises a total of 180 credits as follows:

  • International Security Studies (30 credits); 

  • Policy & Strategy (30 credits); 

  • Operational Studies (30 credits); 

  • Elective option - MA special subject (30 credits);

  •  A 15,000-word Defence Research Paper (60 credits).  

Elective modules are based on research-led teaching delivered by subject matter experts. Students can choose from a range of options, from military history to contemporary international politics and security. Please note, the MADS is open to all students – UK and international.

After successful completion of 60 credits, if students do not progress on the course they are eligible to leave with an exit award of a Postgraduate Certificate. 

After successful completion of 120 credits, if students do not progress on the course they are eligible to leave with an exit award of a Postgraduate Diploma. 

After successful completion of the full 180 credits, students will be awarded a Master of Arts.

Teaching

Teaching is presented through a variety of formal lectures and Q&A sessions, syndicate room discussions and group activities. 

Assessment

Assessment is carried out in two ways:

Summatively - including oral presentations, exercises/simulations and role play/case studies/campaign presentations

Formatively - essays and dissertation paper

Enrolment

Please note that the MA in Defence Studies is only available to military and civil service students enrolled on the Advanced Command and Staff Course (ACSC) at the Joint Services Command and Staff College (JSCSC). Students also have to pass a qualifying exam to be accepted onto the Master's programme.


 

Student Testimonal:


 

 
Hacking 4 MoD

Hacking 4 MoD

H4MoD is an innovative program allowing students to work on real-world government defence problems.