MPhil/PhD Security and Intelligence Studies
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2023-09-27 | 2023-09-01 |
| 2024-01-18 | 2023-11-24 |
| 2024-04-10 | - |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
| 2025-01-01 | - |
| 2025-04-01 | - |
Program Overview
The MPhil/PhD Security and Intelligence Studies program at the University of Buckingham is a research-focused program that explores various security and intelligence-related topics. Led by a team of experienced academics, the program equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary for careers in academia, government, and the private sector. Graduates have gone on to successful careers in fields such as security analysis, law enforcement, and cybersecurity.
Program Outline
Outline:
- Research Areas: The program focuses on a variety of security and intelligence-related topics, including:
- The role of the judicial system and law enforcement agencies in combating terrorism
- The role of women at Bletchley Park during World War II
- Cybersecurity policy in the UK
- Evaluation of Afghanistan's new intelligence agency, the NDS
- The reasons behind states' involvement in securing ecclesiastical independence
- How academia could bolster professionalism in the Nigerian intelligence community
- The potency of soft power as a tool of statecraft in inter-African relations
- Structure: Can be completed as a 3-year full-time program or a 6-year part-time program.
Teaching:
- Supervisors: Students are supported by a research and teaching team led by Dr Julian Richards, a security studies specialist with experience in UK government defense and security policy issues.
- Faculty: The faculty includes leading academics in the field of security and intelligence studies.
Careers:
- Potential Career Paths: Graduates have gone on to careers in various fields, including academia, government, and the private sector. The program equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary for careers in:
- Security and intelligence analysis
- Law enforcement
- Military intelligence
- Cybersecurity
- Counter-terrorism
- Academia
- Government policy
- International relations
- Graduate Success Stories: The program website features testimonials from successful graduates who have secured positions in various organizations around the world.
Other:
- Research Proposals: Applicants are required to submit a research proposal as part of their application.
- Student Contract: Accepted students will receive a student contract outlining the terms and conditions of their enrollment.
Start Type 1st Year Total cost Sep 2024 Full-time (3 Years) UK £8,267 £24,800 INT £14,500 £43,500 Sep 2024 Part-time (6 Years) UK £4,133 £24,800 INT £7,250 £43,500 Jan 2025 Full-time (3 Years) UK £8,267 £24,800 INT £14,500 £43,500 Jan 2025 Part-time (6 Years) UK £4,133 £24,800 INT £7,250 £43,500 Apr 2025 Full-time (3 Years) UK £8,267 £24,800 INT £14,500 £43,500 Apr 2025 Part-time (6 Years) UK £4,133 £24,800 INT £7,250 £43,500 Course fees do not include additional costs such as books, equipment, writing up fees and other ancillary charges. Where applicable, these additional costs will be made clear.
Entry Requirements:
Academic Qualifications:
- First or Second Class Honours Degree: Applicants are typically expected to hold a first or second class honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field. This could include, but is not limited to, subjects such as:
- Security Studies
- Intelligence Studies
- International Relations
- Politics
- History
- Law
- Criminology
- Psychology
- Master's Degree: A Master's degree in a relevant field is preferred, although not mandatory. The following tests are accepted:
- IELTS: 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any band
- TOEFL: 90 overall, with no less than 20 in any section
- PTE Academic: 65 overall, with no less than 58 in any section
- Mature Students: The University welcomes applications from mature students, regardless of their age.
- International Students: International students are encouraged to apply.
- Selection Process: Applicants may be invited for an informal interview and a tour of the campus. International applicants may be interviewed online.
- Research Proposals: Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit a research proposal outlining their proposed area of study.
Summary:
To be eligible for the MPhil/PhD Security and Intelligence Studies program at the University of Buckingham, applicants should generally possess a first or second class honours degree in a relevant field, preferably with a Master's degree. Significant professional experience may also be considered.
