MA in Terrorism, Security and Society

Terrorism today is more deadly than at any other time in modern history. From extreme right-wing mass shootings to Islamic State-inspired bombings and conspiracy theory-driven violence, it continues to evolve and adapt to changing environments and technologies.

The impact of this form of political violence, however, goes beyond its immediate lethality. As recent events in the Middle East have demonstrated, terrorism can, in a stroke, upend and drastically change geopolitical landscapes, catalyse new regional conflicts, and sow societal divisions around the world.

Guided by leading terrorism and national security scholars and current and former government practitioners, this Master’s level programme will introduce students to this complex and ever-evolving phenomenon – its history, causes, and how to combat it at home and abroad. Students will learn, among other things, how terrorists recruit members, the innovative ways they use cutting-edge technologies, and the strategies governments pursue to reduce the threat.

Key benefits

• Provides an advanced foundation and comprehensive understanding of relevant issues in the field of security studies, as well as an overview of the theories and paradigms related to the concepts of terrorism and counter-terrorism, enabling students to undertake further research or enter into careers targeted at understanding these issues
• Develops and nurtures the intellectual and analytical skills of each student enabling you to conceptualise theories, approaches and problems, gather information, critically analyse the data and information, critically evaluate risk management options, and develop reflexive counter-terrorism strategies
• Our unique course is valued by governments and employers across the world because it prompts you to think about these issues in a creative and interconnected way
• An opportunity to be taught by members of the International Centre for the Study of Radicalisation (ICSR), in the Department of War Studies, which is a global centre of excellence that enjoys close relationships with other academic institutions, think tanks, nongovernmental organisations and policy- making bodies around the world. There are also occasional opportunities for internships and research assistant roles for students
• The course enhances your knowledge about relevant careers and opportunities in the field, exposing you to a range of practitioners who help bridge the gap between academia and industry. Many graduates enjoy careers that take them overseas
• Students pursue a variety of careers, including in government agencies to combat the terrorist threat, in the tech industry combatting extremist content online and looking at how terrorists use technology. Students have gone on to work for companies such as Google, Facebook, Palantir, Dataminr, and Graphika
• Students have pursued research careers at universities and within think tanks including institutions like RUSI, the International Institute for Security Studies and Chatham House
• Within the corporate sector, students have joined political risk firms, providing insights to commercial clients about rapidly evolving terrorist situations and political instability
• In addition to the academic grounding this MA will provide, we also have a strong practitioner focus with guest lectures and talks from leading figures in social media companies, politics, law enforcement, intelligence, and civil society, as well as government ministers, ambassadors and generals
• Our unrivalled location in the heart of London beside the River Thames brings outstanding advantages and excellent academic, social and cultural opportunities. We are close to the seat of government, the City of London, the Imperial War Museum, the National Maritime Museum, the Royal Courts of Justice and the Inns of Court

Duration: One year full-time, September to September, two years part-time