MSc Intelligence and Security Studies (PG Cert, PG Dip)

Entry year:
2024/25
Start date:
September
Study mode:
Part-time, Distance learning
Course duration:
2 years
Campus:
Mount Pleasant

Course modules

Discover the building blocks of your programme

Further guidance on modules

Modules are designated core or optional in accordance with professional body requirements, as applicable, and LJMU’s Academic Framework Regulations. Whilst you are required to study core modules, optional modules provide you with an element of choice. Their availability may vary and will be subject to meeting minimum student numbers.

Where changes to modules are necessary these will be communicated as appropriate.

Core modules

Intelligence Analysis
20 credits

This module explores the concept of intelligence and its practical applications in various sectors, emphasizing its role in crime prevention and security. It covers the intelligence process, information sources, case studies, and the function of intelligence analysts, with a focus on law enforcement, government agencies, and the private sector.

Contemporary Issues in Crime, Safety and Security
20 credits

This module introduces students to evolving paradigms in criminology, focusing on safety and security at local and global levels. It encourages critical analysis of security provision in various settings and the impact of securitization on contemporary threats and regulations. The course covers key theories, policies, ethical and legal considerations, and emerging security trends.

International Financial Crime and Security
20 credits

This module focuses on financial crime and its implications within the international criminal system, especially in an era of financial instability. It examines topics such as the global financial system, money laundering, countermeasures against financial crime, central bank involvement, and the economic impact of illicit finances on national economies and the private sector, including potential links to terrorism financing. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of these critical issues.

Terrorism and Counter-Terrorism
20 credits

This module explores terrorism, including its historical definitions, motivating factors, and theoretical approaches. It delves into contemporary challenges like "New Terrorism" and the "War on Terror," examining state terrorism, extremist groups, radicalization, and counter-terrorism strategies in the UK.

History of Intelligence: Success and Failures
20 credits

This module complements Intelligence Analysis and International Security Studies, offering students a comprehensive view of intelligence in various contexts. It explores historical examples of intelligence failures and successes, encouraging critical thinking about intelligence gathering, security, and use in both public and private sectors.

Intelligence and Security Studies Dissertation
60 credits

In this intelligence and security studies module, students pick a research topic with course leader approval, conduct independent research, and receive individualized guidance from a dissertation tutor, showcasing their prior knowledge and skills in the field.

Security Studies
20 credits

This module delves into the complexities of security, examining how contemporary issues challenge and redefine it. It explores the ethical aspects of sovereignty, international security policy-making, and key themes like the Cold War's legacy, terrorism, weapons proliferation, and the impact of globalization. Security Studies, a vital sub-discipline of International Relations, engages in debates about whether security should include not only military conflicts but also economic, environmental, and social concerns. 

Course tutors

Career paths

Further your career prospects

LJMU has an excellent employability record with 96% (HESA 2018) of our postgraduates in work or further study six months after graduation. Our applied learning techniques and strong industry connections ensure our students are fully prepared for the workplace on graduation and understand how to apply their knowledge in a real world context.

Fees and funding

Entry requirements

You will need:

Qualification requirements

Alternative qualifications considered

Applications will be especially welcomed from those who have at least one of the following: • A relevant first degree (such as a degree in criminology, social or political sciences) • Specific experience related to crime and security (such as police or military work) • Relevant professional qualifications In some circumstances applicants who do not possess the standard entry qualifications may be permitted to enrol on the MSc/PG Dip/PG Cert at the discretion of the course leader. Applications are welcomed from overseas students, and all applicants are considered on individual merit, without regard to gender, marital status, disability, race, ethnic origin, religion or social background. The course will be taught in English, and for those applicants whose native language is not English, evidence of proficiency in the English language will be required. The MSc/PG Dip/PG Cert in Intelligence and Security Studies is tailored specifically for ‘in-service’ security professionals and those aspiring to work in this field. As outlined above applicants are required to possess an undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline (which is defined broadly to take into account the potential breath of interests of the students) but can include, criminology, police studies, criminal justice, security studies in a criminal justice or related social sciences discipline.

International requirements

Other international requirements

Applicants are required to have achieved an IELTs score a minimum of a 6.5 or equivalent English language qualifications.

How to apply

Securing your place at LJMU

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The University reserves the right to withdraw or make alterations to a course and facilities if necessary; this may be because such changes are deemed to be beneficial to students, are minor in nature and unlikely to impact negatively upon students or become necessary due to circumstances beyond the control of the University. Where this does happen, the University operates a policy of consultation, advice and support to all enrolled students affected by the proposed change to their course or module.

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