The Master of Special Operations and Irregular Warfare is aimed at military personnel and those in the security policy community, including security contractors, who would benefit from a better understanding of special operations as a military instrument. Postgraduate scholars seeking to develop a research competence in this field will also find this degree a valuable foundation.

Contemporary armed conflicts have demonstrated a contest between state and non-state actors for legitimacy and influence with a target population. Within these types of irregular warfare, the employment of special operations forces has been seen on an unprecedented scale, yet special operations remains an understudied and often misunderstood instrument of military policy.  

 The Master of Special Operations and Irregular Warfare at UNSW Canberra uniquely addresses this gap by offering students a combination of special operations focused content alongside a selection of electives addressing broader issues in strategy and security. This program is ideal for military personnel and those in the security policy community seeking to broaden their understanding of special operations beyond the tactical and operational skills and capabilities involved. It also provides an excellent framework of reference for other government employees and contractors who would benefit from a better understanding of special operations as a military instrument.