[2] RSIS' research, teaching and networking objectives are aimed at assisting policymakers to develop comprehensive approaches to strategic thinking in areas related to Singapore's interests.

Its stated objectives are to conduct research and provide general and graduate education in the area of national security, military technology and international relations.

A select Doctor of Philosophy programme caters to advanced students who are supervised by the senior faculty members with matching interests.

The school has also established the S. Rajaratnam Professorship in Strategic Studies (named after Singapore's first foreign minister), to bring distinguished scholars to participate in the work of the institute.

RSIS convenes workshops, seminars and colloquia on aspects of international relations and security development that are of contemporary and historical significance.