| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Postgraduate MA/PgDip Terrorism and Security
Overview
The MA/PgDip Terrorism and Security is a postgraduate program that explores the complex and highly relevant field of terrorism and security. The program is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the issues surrounding terrorism and security, as well as the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a career in this field.
Introduction
The program is designed for students who want to work in the civil service, armed forces, intelligence agencies, police forces, private security companies, research institutions, government organizations, or the media. The program provides a comprehensive introduction to the study of terrorism and security, including the tactics used by terrorist groups and the measures put in place to counter them.
Course Details
The program is available full-time or part-time, with a distance learning option also available. The full-time program consists of three trimesters, with two 30-credit core modules in the first trimester, two 30-credit optional modules in the second trimester, and a 60-credit dissertation or practicum in the third trimester. The part-time distance learning program consists of three years, with core modules in the first year, optional modules in the second year, and a dissertation or practicum in the third year.
Modules
The program includes a range of modules, including:
- Terrorism: Threat and Response
- Security Studies
- Contemporary Security, Intelligence and Terrorism
- The Middle East and Terrorism
- Strategic and Security Studies
- The Secret State: Domestic Security in Britain
- Terrorism in Europe since 1945
- Conflict and Development
- Hacking for Ministry of Defence
Assessment
Students are assessed through two essays per module, each weighted at 50% of the overall mark for the module. After completing 120 credits, students can proceed to the 14,000-word dissertation or the Terrorism and Security Practicum.
Requirements
Applicants should have a second-class honors degree in a related subject, as well as a clear desire to study the course. Applicants without an undergraduate degree but with relevant work experience are also considered. A personal statement is required, explaining why the applicant wants to do the course and the skills they have to complete it successfully.
International Students
International applicants are required to show a proficiency in English, with an IELTS score of 6.5 or above. The university accepts qualifications from around the world and also offers a Pre-Sessional English course for those who do not meet the English language requirements.
Fees
The fees for the program are as follows:
- Full-time home: £8,820 per year (2024/25), £9,100 per year (2025/26)
- Full-time international: £16,380 per year (2024/25), £17,000 per year (2025/26)
- Part-time: fees are calculated on a pro rata basis
- Distance learning: fees are calculated on a pro rata basis
Scholarships
The university offers scholarships for international students. Applicants can explore the international scholarships available.
Career Links
The program provides opportunities for students to attend stimulating guest lectures, seminars, and conferences, which bring researchers and practitioners together. The program's broad introduction to cutting-edge research and current academic controversies offers an excellent foundation for further in-depth research into terrorism and security issues.
Student Information
The university provides a range of support services for students, including the askUS service, which supports and guides students to be successful in all aspects of their life. The university also has a thriving alumni network, which provides support and guidance to graduates.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The MA/PgDip in Terrorism and Security at the University of Salford delves into a complex and highly relevant field of study, offering insights into culture, politics, and international relations. The program explores the tactics of terrorist groups, counter-terrorism measures implemented across the globe, and the complex relationship between terrorism and national security.
- Objectives:
- Equip students with academic and professional skills for careers in public service, research, and education.
- Provide graduates with extensive knowledge and ability to analyze terrorism and security issues within contemporary global settings.
- Develop critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills relevant to various careers.
- Delivery Mode:
- Full-time option: One year duration, attending one three-hour session per week per module.
- Part-time distance learning option: Three years duration, delivered via the Blackboard virtual learning environment.
Outline:
Full-time:
- Trimester One:
- Terrorism: Threat and Response: This module analyzes the complexities of terrorism and explores responses by governments and international organizations.
- Security Studies: Introduces major approaches and methods for research and analysis of security issues, ranging from military to non-military contexts.
- Trimester Two (two module choices):
- Contemporary Security, Intelligence and Terrorism: Examines recent and current security, intelligence, and counter-terrorism practices.
- The Middle East and Terrorism: Explores the nature and scope of terrorism in the Middle East, including historical contexts and regional responses.
- Strategic and Security Studies: Examines major debates and discussions in Strategic and Security Studies, including terrorism studies.
- The Secret State: Domestic Security in Britain, 1883-2012: Analyzes Britain's response to terrorism and subversion through historical documents.
- Terrorism in Europe since 1945: Discusses significant terrorist and counter-terrorist campaigns in Europe since 1945.
- Conflict and Development: Provides a comprehensive introduction to the study of conflict and development, focusing on civil war and its impact on development.
- Trimester Three (Dissertation or Practicum):
- Dissertation: An optional 14,000-word dissertation focusing on a chosen topic in terrorism and security.
- Terrorism and Security Practicum: A 6,000-word research paper based on a work placement with an organization dealing with terrorism and security concerns.
Part-time Distance Learning:
- Year One:
- Terrorism: Threat and Response and
- Security Studies modules.
- Year Two (two module choices): Same options as full-time Trimester Two.
- Dissertation or Terrorism and Security Practicum
Assessment:
Assessment in this program utilizes two essays per module, each contributing 50% to the module's overall mark. Successful completion of 120 credits (four modules) allows students to undertake either the dissertation or the practicum project.
Teaching:
Full-time:
In-person sessions at the Peel Park campus, consisting of introductory lectures and seminar discussions.
Part-time Distance Learning:
Modules are delivered via the Blackboard virtual environment, featuring weekly podcast lectures, key readings, discussion questions, and active online interactions.
Careers:
Graduates of this program are well-equipped for careers in diverse fields, including:
- Civil service
- Armed forces
- Intelligence agencies
- Police forces
- Private security companies
- Research institutions
- Government organizations
- Media A strong track record exists for graduates securing positions with organizations such as Greater Manchester Police, the Home Office, Lancashire Police Counter Terrorism Branch, and international organizations such as the OSCE.
Other:
- The program emphasizes academic and research skills, serving as a strong foundation for potential doctoral studies.
- Graduates are supported by the University of Salford Alumni Network, offering professional and personal support.
| Type of study | Year | Fees | |---|---|---| | Full-time home | 2024/25 | £8,820.00 per year | | Full-time international | 2024/25 | £16,380.00 per year | | Part-time | 2024/25 | Part time fees are calculated on a pro rata basis | | Full-time home | 2025/26 | £9,100.00 per year | | Full-time international | 2025/26 | £17,000.00 per year | | Part-time | 2025/26 | Part time fees are calculated on a pro rata basis |
