The aim of this module is to explore the drivers and decision-making behind terrorist tactics, strategies and target selection. The module will make use of Cranfield’s explosives and firearms facilities to examine different types of terrorist tactics, looking into the role of ideology and other factors, as well as the impact of countermeasures on the evolution of terrorist strategies. The module will also consider possible future trends in terrorist tactics and strategy.  

At a glance

  • Dates
    • Please enquire for course dates
  • Duration5 days
  • LocationCranfield campus
  • CostShort course £2,250, accredited short course £2,500

What you will learn

On successful completion of the course you will be able to:

  • Critically assess terrorist strategy, ideologies and tactics in the UK and abroad,
  • Critically analyse what academic research highlights about terrorist tactics and strategy,
  • Critically assess the impact of ideology in motivating terrorists, and examine the interpretations of events from multiple perspectives,
  • Evaluate the impact of state responses on terrorist tactics, and possible future tactics,
  • Analyse the drivers of the evolution and innovation in terrorist tactics and strategy.

Core content

  • Historical and comparative approaches of terrorist strategy, ideology and tactics,
  • Contextualisation of terrorist tactics and strategies,
  • Understanding terrorist target selection,
  • Terrorist psychology and decision making,
  • Innovation, learning, and adaptation in terrorism,
  • Case study analysis of different terrorist campaigns and the countermeasures,
  • Developing a prevention plan and analytical framework.

Credits towards further study

Important notice

Please note we will not be taking registrations for the below courses (MSc, PgDip and PgCert) from the 2026-2027 academic year onwards:

Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology
Forensic Investigation
Digital Forensics
Counterterrorism, Security and Resilience

This means that we are no longer in a position to transfer credit associated with modules from these courses to Cranfield degree awards. We continue, however, to be able to support credit transfer to other university awards, subject to acceptance by the receiving institution.

This short course forms part of Counterterrorism, Security and Resilience and when successfully completed as an accredited short course you will gain 10 Cranfield learning credits.

Find out more about accredited short courses.

Accommodation options and prices

This course is non-residential. If you would like to book accommodation on campus, please contact Mitchell Hall or Cranfield Management Development Centre directly. Further information about our on campus accommodation can be found here. 

Alternatively you may wish to make your own arrangements at a nearby hotel.

Location and travel

Situated close to Milton Keynes and Bedford, the Cranfield campus is situated in Wharley End, very close to Cranfield village, and is about 10 minutes from the M1 motorway.  There is rail and road access to most major airports as well as coach and train stations. Cranfield campus also has its own airport for private executive business travel.

Download a visitor guide including map, directions and health and safety information.

Campus address

College Road
Cranfield
Bedfordshire
MK43 0AL

 

Location address

 

How to apply

To apply for this course please use the online application form.

Read our Professional development (CPD) booking conditions.