Alumni
The benefits of GSSD continue beyond graduation. Networks between students endure as their careers develop in Australia, across the Asia-Pacific, and further afield. GSSD supports more formal networking opportunities including invitations to SDSC research seminars and the in-house GSSD Dialogue series which allows current students and all alumni to interact with leading members of the wider strategic community.
Graduate Destinations
Our graduates have a wide range of career possibilities available to them. The strong reputation of the ANU and the GSSD Program, and the analytical skills which the program emphasises, make an excellent match for the extensive number of organisations which are now interested and engaged in strategic and security issues. GSSD graduates are represented in an extensive variety of professions, organizations and activities, including:
- Research positions
- University teaching
- Defence Policy
- Foreign Affairs
- International organisations
- Intelligence analysis
- Treasury
- Police
- Immigration
- Overseas aid
- Private sector organizations
- PhD study
Graduate Profiles
"The GSSD Masters program was the most enjoyable year of my University studies. It was the first place where I could properly incorporate the wide array of historical, scientific, philosophical and practical knowledge accumulated during my Bachelor of Asian Studies. The skills and friendships I acquired have been invaluable to me, as has the continued support by the highly professional staff at the centre. I would strongly recommend this course for anybody looking to hone his or her analytical and conceptual skills to the highest possible level." Nicholas Charpentier, MA (SS)/MDiplomacy graduate from Australia, now at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
“Completing the Masters of Strategic Affairs at ANU helped me to develop a deeper understanding of Australia’s strategic interests and Defence priorities. Most importantly, it helped me to develop basic skills in ‘strategic thinking’ that I can use on a daily basis. I am now working for International Policy Division in the Department of Defence and have spent time on the Iraq Desk and as a liaison officer to the operational headquarters. I would highly recommend the MSA.” Ms Sarah Driver, MSA graduate from Australia, now working at the Department of Defence.
“Whatever your professional goal… the GSSD can be rewarding not just because of… geniuses, like von Clausewitz and Sun Tzu, who are studied, but also because of the wealth of experience that the student body as well as the lecturers bring along.” Silva Lauffer, MSA graduate from Germany, now working for an international organization in the United Kingdom.
“The fourteen months I spent at the ANU were intellectually fruitful and productive, and have contributed significantly to my aspirations.” Mr Erwin Tan, MA(SS) graduate from Singapore, now undertaking PhD study in Wales.
Update Your Details
GSSD is keen to stay in touch with alumni. Are you a former student or have your contact details changed? Please e-mail gssd.administrator@anu.edu.au with your updated information.