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
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.
Community Policing Responses to Violent Extremism Leading to Terrorism
20 credits
20 credits
This module explores various community policing models, their applications, and their role in countering radicalization leading to terrorism. It adopts a practical approach, using case studies and government policy references. Students will critically analyze these methods and gain in-depth knowledge of how community policing can combat extremism and terrorism. Topics include key community policing concepts, recent approaches, their outcomes, multiculturalism, and global community responses to counter-terrorism efforts.
Contemporary Issues in Crime, Safety and Security
20 credits
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.
Terrorism and Counter-Terrorism
20 credits
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.
Military and Security Responses to Terrorism
20 credits
20 credits
This module critically evaluates contemporary military and intelligence responses to counter-terrorism. It covers a range of tactics and techniques used by the military and security services while considering their ethical justifications and operational effectiveness, with topics including targeted killings, the use of unmanned aerial vehicles, and more.
Understanding Terrorist Financing
20 credits
20 credits
This module focuses on terrorist financing, covering how terrorist groups raise and manage funds for their operations and long-term objectives. It assesses the effectiveness of international countermeasures and explores topics like the post-9/11 terrorist threat, financing strategies, regional variations, and compliance systems. The course provides insights into the methods used for terrorist financing, potential intelligence gaps, private sector vulnerabilities, and national and international countermeasures.
Counter-Terrorism Studies Dissertation
60 credits
60 credits
This module permits students to conduct independent research in counter-terrorism studies. They choose a research area (subject to approval), complete an approved dissertation plan, and receive individual supervision. The dissertation should involve original research and apply their acquired knowledge and skills in the field.
Course tutors
Peter Williams
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Career paths
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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 Counter-terrorism 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
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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.