MSc Strategic Studies in Aberdeen United Kingdom | University of Aberdeen

University of Aberdeen | Aberdeen United Kingdom
Visit institution website for more information
Qualification
Masters Degree (Taught)
Languages
English
Delivery Mode
On-Campus
Tuition (2025)
GBP 23,800
(c. USD31,755.15)
Attendance
Full-time
Full-time Duration
12 months

The MSc Strategic Studies offers an in-depth exploration of how force is employed in global conflicts. This program enables students to critically analyze pressing security challenges faced by governments, military forces, peacekeeping bodies, international institutions, and corporations worldwide. Designed to provide comprehensive theoretical and practical knowledge, it examines how state and non-state entities wield force across Asian and international contexts. The multidisciplinary curriculum attracts students from diverse global backgrounds.

Strategic planning presents significant challenges, with many approaches frequently falling short. Our program tackles these complex issues head-on. You'll explore strategy as a tool for exercising power and influence, covering topics like warfare origins, deterrence theory, counterterrorism, China's security landscape, religious conflicts, and how cutting-edge technologies (AI, cybersecurity, drone warfare, hypersonic weapons) are transforming strategic operations.

The curriculum examines historical foundations that have influenced strategic developments through political, psychological, and cultural lenses. Students gain insights from both Western viewpoints and alternative perspectives, particularly focusing on Chinese strategic thought.


Destination of Study

Subjects of Study

Language Requirements

English
IELTS 6.5

Qualification Requirements

The information below is provided as a guide only and does not guarantee entry to the University of Aberdeen.

Applicants for admission will normally be expected to hold a relevant Honours degree with a 2:1 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. Also taken into careful consideration is the trajectory of results, an applicant without an overall 2.1 but with 2.1 results in their final two years of study may be admitted.
You will be required to supply the following documentation with your application as proof you meet the entry requirements of this degree programme. If you have not yet completed your current programme of study, then you can still apply and you can provide your Degree Certificate at a later date.

Degree Certificate
a degree certificate showing your qualifications
Degree Transcript
a full transcript showing all the subjects you studied and the marks you have achieved in your degree(s) (original & official English translation)
Personal Statement
a detailed personal statement explaining your motivation for this particular programme
Reference x 2
two reference letters, one of which should be from your university discussing your academic ability. If you have been out of education for a long time you may wish to use your current or most recent employers, or other professional individuals

IELTS Academic: OVERALL - 6.5 with: Listening - 5.5, Reading - 6.0, Speaking - 5.5, Writing - 6.0
TOEFL iBT: OVERALL - 90 with: Listening - 17, Reading - 21, Speaking - 20, Writing - 21

Tuition GBP 23,800

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