MA Violence, Terrorism and Security

Belfast

 

INTAKE: September

Program Overview

The MA in Violence, Terrorism and Security delves into the complexities of non-state political violence and the multifaceted security responses it necessitates. Students are encouraged to critically assess the evolution, causes, and consequences of political violence and terrorism, while also evaluating state and international strategies aimed at countering these threats. The program fosters a nuanced comprehension of how political power and violence intersect in both historical and contemporary contexts.

Curriculum: Structured over one academic year for full-time students, the curriculum encompasses six modules across two semesters, culminating in a dissertation. In the Autumn semester, students undertake core modules such as "Violence, Terrorism and Security," "Contemporary Security," and "Approaches to Research Design." The Spring semester includes the "Global Terrorism" core module, complemented by two elective modules chosen from options like "Conflict Mediation and Transformation," "Global Political Economy," and "Comparative Human Rights." This comprehensive curriculum ensures that students acquire both theoretical insights and practical research skills pertinent to the field.

Research Focus: The program is anchored in a robust research environment, with faculty members actively engaged in cutting-edge studies on topics such as counterterrorism, state violence, and civil conflict dynamics. Students benefit from exposure to the latest research methodologies and findings, fostering an environment that encourages independent research and critical inquiry. The dissertation component allows students to explore specific areas of interest in depth, contributing original insights to the field.

Industry Engagement: Queen's University Belfast emphasizes practical engagement with industry and policy-making bodies. The program offers opportunities for students to interact with practitioners through guest lectures, seminars, and workshops. Located in Belfast, a city with a complex history of political conflict and peacebuilding, students have unique access to a community that has experienced and addressed issues of violence and security firsthand. This setting provides invaluable real-world insights and networking opportunities with professionals in the field.

Global Perspective: Understanding the global dimensions of terrorism and security is a cornerstone of the program. Students are encouraged to engage with international case studies and theoretical frameworks that reflect the transnational nature of political violence. The diverse student body and faculty further enrich discussions, bringing varied perspectives to the analysis of global security challenges. Additionally, the university offers optional extracurricular field visits, such as trips to Brussels, where students can engage with counterterrorism experts and security practitioners from organizations like NATO and the EU Commission, thereby broadening their international outlook.

Pollster Education

Location

Belfast

Pollster Education

Score

IELTS 6.5

Pollster Education

Tuition Fee

£ 21500

Postgraduate Entry Requirements:

  • 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 is required, and applicants must provide evidence of their English language skills through an approved language test.
    • IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual component below 6.0.
    • TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 90, with at least 20 in Listening, 19 in Reading, 20 in Speaking, and 21 in Writing.
    • PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 62 with no individual score below 51.
  • Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

Students must provide:

  • academic marksheets & transcripts
  • letters of recommendation
  • a personal statement - SOP
  • passport
  • other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

Queens University Belfast offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities to support students in their academic pursuits. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, diversity, and financial need. 

Queens Loyalty Scholarship: The Queen's Loyalty Scholarship is available for Queen's University Belfast graduates who pursue a postgraduate program at the university. It offers a 20% tuition fee reduction for eligible students.

Queens University Belfast International Scholarships: The university provides a range of scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships vary in terms of eligibility criteria, funding amount, and application requirements. Examples include the International Office Undergraduate Scholarship, International Office Postgraduate Taught Scholarship, and International Office Postgraduate Research Scholarships.

Vice-Chancellors International Attainment Scholarship: The Vice-Chancellor's International Attainment Scholarship is aimed at international students with exceptional academic performance. It provides a significant reduction in tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

Country-Specific Scholarships: Queens University Belfast offers scholarships that are specific to certain countries or regions. These scholarships are designed to attract talented students from these areas and promote diversity within the university community.

Research Council Funding:For postgraduate research students, there are opportunities to secure funding through research council scholarships. These scholarships are competitive and cover tuition fees and provide a stipend for living expenses.

Sports Scholarships: Queens University Belfast also offers sports scholarships for students who excel in sports. These scholarships provide financial support, training facilities, and other benefits to help athletes balance their sporting commitments with their studies.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application processes may vary each year. 

Graduates of the MA Violence, Terrorism, and Security program are well-prepared for diverse and impactful careers in the field of security, international relations, and policy analysis. Their specialized knowledge and analytical skills make them valuable contributors in various sectors. 

Security Analyst: Graduates can work as security analysts, assessing security threats, conducting risk assessments, and providing recommendations to organizations, government agencies, and international organizations.

Counterterrorism Specialist: Those interested in counterterrorism can work in roles that involve designing and implementing strategies to prevent and respond to terrorist threats.

Policy Advisor: Graduates can contribute to policy analysis and development, providing expertise to governmental and non-governmental organizations on security, conflict resolution, and international relations.

International Relations Consultant: With a focus on global security issues, graduates can work as consultants, offering insights and recommendations on international relations, conflict management, and diplomacy.

Researcher: Graduates can pursue roles as researchers, conducting studies on violence, terrorism, and security, and contributing to academic and policy-oriented research.

Risk Management Specialist: Some graduates may work in risk management, identifying potential security risks and developing strategies to mitigate them for businesses, organizations, and governments.


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