PgDip Terrorism and Security

Terrorism and security issues are at the top of the political agenda in many countries. This exciting and unique course gives you the opportunity to study these issues in depth, in a dynamic and stimulating academic environment.

During your time with us, you will examine a wide range of topics in depth, including terrorist groups and their strategies and counter-terrorism policies in the US, UK, Europe and the Middle East.

You will also have the opportunity to examine the place of terrorism in relation to other threats to security, and the place of counter-terrorism strategies in relation to other state-led efforts to achieve and maintain security.

You will:

• Learn from experts in global security and strategy who have published extensive research in respected political and historical journals
• Gain a deep insight into global terrorism and security at a time of great change and uncertainty following the Arab Spring
• Study modules dealing with various aspects of terrorism, counter-terrorism and security strategies

TEACHING:

If studying by attendance you will be taught through one three-hour session per week for each module. These sessions consist of introductory lectures and seminar discussions.

Distance learning modules are run via BlackBoard, the virtual learning environment. Each week a podcast lecture will be provided, as will key readings, a further reading list and online discussion questions. You will listen to the podcast, engage with the key readings, and actively contribute to online discussions in response to questions set by your lecturers.

ASSESSMENT:

You will be assessed through two essays per module each weighted at 50% of the overall mark for the module. After the successful completion of 120 credits (four modules) you will proceed to the 14,000 word dissertation (60 credits) or, for students given permission to do so by the Programme Leader, the Terrorism and Security Practicum

CAREER LINKS:

You have the opportunity to attend stimulating guest lectures, seminars and conferences, which bring researchers and practitioners together. These will make you better informed as to how the industry works and your current or future place within it.

The course’s broad introduction to cutting-edge research and current academic controversies offers an excellent foundation for further in-depth research into terrorism and security issues.

The University’s Politics and Contemporary History Research Centre builds on the active research programme provided by the Politics and Contemporary History seminar series.

Students can also achieve PGDip award.