Defence Studies Royal Military College of Canada

Overview

The Defence Studies programme at the Royal Military College of Canada offers a sophisticated exploration of the complex relationship between the profession of arms and national security policies. This professional degree is specifically designed for competitively selected Canadian and international senior military officers, alongside eligible government employees.

The curriculum investigates both applied and theoretical topics, drawing from diverse academic disciplines such as international relations, economics, history, and sociology. Students examine military command, leadership, and the conduct of major operations, including peace support and domestic security. The programme ensures that graduates possess the analytical skills required for high-level leadership within a global security context.

Why Defence Studies at the Royal Military College of Canada?

This programme is uniquely situated at the Canadian Forces College in Toronto, providing a high-level professional environment for strategic learning. It is approved by the Ontario Council of Graduate Studies and maintains rigorous international standards of professional competence. The institution offers access to specialised facilities, including the Massey Library and dedicated research centres focused on military science.

The teaching features a blend of residential seminars, case studies, and practical exercises led by subject matter experts. Students benefit from a diverse cohort of peers, fostering international partnerships and a whole-of-government approach to security. The programme’s distinctive focus on operational art and design equips leaders with the tools to facilitate innovation within complex military headquarters.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: CAD 8345 per semester
• National fee: CAD 2800 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Analysis of Contemporary Conflict
• Field Research on Contemporary Conflict
• Analysis of Defence Headquarters Issues
• Field Research on Defence Headquarters Issues
• Analysis of Doctrinal Questions
• Empirical Research on Doctrinal Questions
• Security Studies
• Independent Study
• World Order, Power Politics, and New Rivalries
• Military Law in Comparative Perspective
• Strategic Art
• Research Project
• Canada and the Global Strategic and Security Environment
• Canadian Government and Decision-making in a Strategic Context
• Thinking, Making and Formulating Strategy in Security Contexts
• Strategic Leadership
• Institutional Strategy
• Strategic Command: A Canadian Context
• Pan-domain Operations

Careers with Defence Studies

Graduates of this programme typically advance into senior command and staff appointments within the Canadian Armed Forces or international military organisations. The degree prepares individuals for demanding leadership roles in global environments, focusing on strategic management and warfighting. Many alumni also find opportunities as senior policy advisors or directors within various government departments and security agencies.