MSc Cybersecurity Technology with Placement
The MSc Cybersecurity Technology with Placement program at Canterbury Christ Church Uni...
MSc Counter Terrorism and Security
Canterbury
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU) in the United Kingdom offers an MSc Counter Terrorism and Security program designed to equip students with a deep understanding of the complex and evolving landscape of terrorism and security threats in the 21st century. This postgraduate degree provides the opportunity for students to engage with a wide range of contemporary issues, focusing on what motivates terrorist activity, the global response to varied threats, and the analytical skills needed to contribute meaningfully to effective solutions. The program is suitable for current professionals seeking to deepen their understanding or update their knowledge, as well as for those embarking on a career within counter-terrorism and security, across a range of career pathways or for further research. It distinguishes itself by connecting the conceptual basis of academic study to practical issues facing the international community, considering emerging terrorism threats and issues pertaining to counter-terrorism, law enforcement, government agencies, and the private sector.
Curriculum: The MSc Counter Terrorism and Security curriculum at CCCU is designed to offer a comprehensive and critical examination of terrorism and security. While specific module titles may be subject to continuous review and updates to ensure the most current knowledge, the course typically includes taught modules covering key legal, social, and political issues related to security. Students develop a foundational understanding of key threat landscapes globally and in the UK, alongside a three-dimensional understanding of core issues in counter-terrorism worldwide. The learning experience combines lecture-style input on key theories and issues with interactive, seminar-based discussions to deepen understanding. The program also incorporates immersive learning activities such as critical incident simulations, including the use of the university's Hydra Suite, and expert speaker events, reflecting the dynamic nature of the topics explored. The program culminates in a dissertation, allowing students to conduct independent research on a counter-terrorism or security topic of their choice under the guidance of experienced faculty.
Research Focus: The MSc Counter Terrorism and Security program at Canterbury Christ Church University is characterized by its strong research-led and research-informed teaching. The course is taught by a variety of academics and professionals, including staff within the School of Law, Policing and Social Sciences who hold postgraduate qualifications and are research-active. The content of the modules is continuously reviewed and updated to ensure students are provided with the most up-to-date knowledge informed by current research. Faculty members are engaged in research on counter-terrorism and security issues, contributing to wider discussions from both an academic and policy perspective. The dissertation component provides a significant opportunity for students to engage in original research, exploring critical, analytical, and problem-solving skills utilizing high-level evidence, case studies, and reports.
Industry Engagement: The MSc Counter Terrorism and Security program at CCCU emphasizes practical relevance and professional development, with a track record of high student satisfaction relating to the knowledge of counter-terrorism and security issues. The course is facilitated by academics and professionals from varied backgrounds, including speakers directly working in the field, providing students with insights into real-world applications. Practical immersion into topics is achieved through a number of speaker events, critical incident simulations (such as using Hydra Suite simulations or model United Nations tabletop exercises), and other interactive activities. These opportunities are designed to deepen students' understanding and provide valuable networking with professionals. The program's design aims to support career progression for current working professionals seeking to deepen their understanding or update their knowledge, as well as for those just about to embark on a career within counter-terrorism and security in a wide variety of public, private, and third-sector organizations.
Global Perspective: The MSc Counter Terrorism and Security program at Canterbury Christ Church University inherently adopts a significant global perspective, recognizing that terrorism and security threats are complex and interconnected international phenomena. The curriculum is designed to allow students to engage with a wide range of 21st-century global issues, focusing on understanding the challenges and risks from the threat of terrorism, what motivates terrorist activity, and the global response to varied threats. It incorporates an understanding of key threat landscapes globally and in the UK, and addresses key issues in counter-terrorism on a global scale. The program prepares students to contribute meaningfully to solutions in these areas, making them well-equipped for careers in an increasingly interconnected world where security challenges often transcend national borders. The diverse backgrounds of the teaching staff and the potential for a multinational student cohort further enrich the global understanding cultivated by the program.
Location
Canterbury
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 15500
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 60.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU) offers various scholarships and financial aid options to support international students in their academic journey. These scholarships are designed to help reduce the financial burden of tuition fees and living expenses, enabling students to focus on their studies and make the most of their university experience.
International Merit Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to international students based on their academic performance and achievements. It provides a significant discount on tuition fees, making it more affordable for high-achieving students from abroad to study at CCCU.
Global Students Scholarship: This scholarship is aimed at supporting international students who demonstrate excellent potential and their studies. It offers a percentage reduction in tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate international students.
Postgraduate International Scholarship: For postgraduate students, CCCU offers specific scholarships that provide financial assistance for those pursuing a master’s or doctoral program. These scholarships recognize academic excellence and provide an opportunity for international students to study in the UK at a reduced cost.
Graduates of the MSc Counter Terrorism and Security program from Canterbury Christ Church University are uniquely positioned to contribute to safeguarding national and international security in a rapidly evolving threat landscape. This advanced degree equips individuals with specialized knowledge of terrorist motivations, global security strategies, intelligence analysis, and policy development, making them highly sought after across various government, law enforcement, military, and private sector organizations. The program's emphasis on critical analysis, problem-solving, and understanding complex global challenges prepares alumni for pivotal roles in preventing and responding to security threats.
Counter-Terrorism Analyst: Working for government intelligence agencies (e.g., MI5, MI6, GCHQ), police forces (e.g., Counter Terrorism Policing), or security think tanks, analyzing intelligence, identifying threats, and contributing to threat assessments and strategic responses.
Intelligence Officer/Analyst: Employed by national security services, police forces, or other government departments, involved in collecting, assessing, and disseminating intelligence to inform decision-making related to national security and counter-terrorism efforts.
Security Consultant/Advisor: Providing expert advice on security risks, counter-terrorism measures, and protective security strategies to private corporations, critical infrastructure operators, international organizations, or government agencies.
Risk Manager (Corporate/Public Sector): Identifying, assessing, and mitigating security risks, including those related to terrorism, for businesses, large organizations, or public bodies, ensuring the safety of personnel and assets.
Policy Advisor (Government/NGOs): Contributing to the development and implementation of national and international counter-terrorism policies, security strategies, and legislative frameworks within government departments, international bodies (e.g., UN, EU), or non-governmental organizations.
Law Enforcement Specialist: Working within police forces, border agencies, or other law enforcement bodies in roles focused on counter-terrorism investigations, intelligence gathering, protective security, or managing complex security operations.
Cyber Security Analyst (with additional IT skills): Focusing on protecting digital systems and networks from cyber threats, including those posed by state-sponsored actors or terrorist groups, combining security knowledge with technical expertise.
Crisis Management Specialist: Developing and implementing plans for organizations to respond effectively to security incidents, including terrorist attacks, ensuring business continuity and the safety of individuals.
Researcher/Academic: Pursuing further doctoral studies (PhD) and contributing to the academic understanding of terrorism, security studies, and counter-terrorism strategies through research, teaching, and publication at universities or research institutes.
International Security Roles: Working for international organizations (e.g., United Nations, INTERPOL, NATO), international NGOs, or multinational corporations in roles related to global security, conflict resolution, or humanitarian assistance in fragile environments.
