New strategic studies degree launched at Victoria
Victoria University is setting the standard for strategic thinkers on international and national security, politics and
trade with the launch of its new Master of Strategic Studies programme.
The University's School of Government launches the new programme, which also includes a certificate and diploma in
strategic studies, at its Pipitea campus tomorrow (2 December 2003).
Head of School, Professor Gary Hawke, said the programme aimed to develop the capacity of strategic thinkers and leaders
in New Zealand, particularly those working at the international and whole-of-government levels.
"The events of September 11, 2001, and the subsequent wars in Afghanistan and Iraq have brought into sharp focus the
need for strategists who can think outside the confines of their particular agency and see the connections between
different issues, for example between internal and international politics and between security, foreign and trade
policies.
"Those undertaking the programme will improve their knowledge, skills and competencies in the theories and methods
needed to take New Zealand forward into the 21st century, in a world that is increasingly complex, global and
interconnected."
Professor Hawke said the programme would create an enriched learning environment by combining specialist practitioners
and graduates with wide-ranging disciplinary backgrounds and with experience in a range of public, private and
non-government sectors and organisations.
"As the home of the Centre for Strategic Studies, part of the School of Government, and as New Zealand's Capital City
University, Victoria is well placed to provide this new programme. Not only do we have the academic experts in
disciplines such as foreign policy and religious terrorism, but we also have the contacts in key government agencies and
overseas institutions to further enhance the programme."
The Master of Strategic Studies programme is a mixture of core and elective courses and is designed for strategic
thinkers in a wide range of government agencies, including customs, defence, foreign policy and security. A strand of
the programme also caters for public, private and community sector planners and strategists in local and regional
government and social policy, particularly health and education.
The programme is also "stair-cased." Students completing the first year of the MSS programme can continue on towards the
degree or graduate with a Postgraduate Certificate. Likewise, those completing the second year can either complete the
degree or graduate with a Postgraduate Diploma. This structure provides increased flexibility to students who are unable
to commit to the full three-year MSS programme.
Course members will complete an appropriate mix of research and practice as part of their study programme. The programme
offers the possibility of an internship.
The Master of Strategic Studies programme will be launched at Rutherford House, Ground Floor, Lecture Theatre 3, 23
Lambton Quay, Wellington, 4.15pm-6pm. Media are welcome to attend.