MSc Terrorism

Terrorism, Counterterrorism and Political Violence

 

Good degree in a social science or other relevant subject.

Other Qualifications may also be considered.

 

 

Provides you with a comprehensive, advanced-level grounding in the study of terrorism, political violence and the pursuit of security at national, international and global level.

 

A strong foundation from which to pursue further research at the PhD/MPhil Level.

 

The programme’s core courses focuses on the contemporary and historical development of terrorism and security in relation to state and society, as well as broader context of international governance and security.

 

You will develop your capability to critically analyses complex debates and issues, improve your written and oral communication skills, and learn to apply appropriate concepts and methods in conducting independent research.

 

You will take a core course, Terrorism, Counterterrorism and Political Violence, and option modules, and will write a dissertation.

Options will be chosen from the core courses on other Department of Politics taught postgraduate programmes, or from the list of dedicated option courses. Option modules are normally available in: British, US and European government and politics; international relations, international security, and US foreign policy; politics of globalisation and international political economy; politics, policy and administration of the EU; political theory and political sociology; war, conflict, nationalism, politics and religion; policy analysis, policy-making processes and comparative public policy; public management and public sector reform; research methods.

 

For MRes students, research methods training forms part of the programme's core elements.

A mix of lectures and classes employing a variety of formats.

 

Core courses assessed by examinations; option modules assessed by a combination of coursework and examination. There is a dissertation element or a research portfolio.

What study resources are available?
Birkbeck Library has an extensive teaching collection of books and journals in politics and sociology. It also has an impressive range of electronic resources, including bibliographic databases and over 17,000 electronic journals. Most of these resources can be accessed via the Internet 24 hours a day. Students can also take advantage of the rich research collections nearby, including those of the Senate House Library, the British Library of Political and Economic Science (LSE Library) and the British Library.

The Department of Politics organises a lively programme of seminars and conferences.

 

If you are interested in further research, we offer a PhD/MPhil in Politics/Sociology (see page 258). This programme is an excellent means by which to enter or further a career in the counterterrorism community, international governmental and non-governmental organisations, specialist media and journalism, or private sector risk and security management fields.