This module can be taken as an Accredited Short Course or a Standalone Short Course.

Please go to the 'Upgrade to a professional qualification' section for more information.

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
  • Cost

    £670 - Accredited Short Course Fee

    £350 per/day - Standalone Short Course


What you will learn

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

  • Critically understand terrorist strategy, ideologies and tactics in the UK and abroad
  • Critically analyse what academic research tells us about terrorist tactics and strategy
  • Critically assess the impact of ideology in motivating terrorists, and examine the interpretations of events from multiple perspectives
  • Explore the link between a terrorist organisation’s ideological structure and framework, the target selection, the tactics adopted, recruitment and training
  • Examine the impact of state responses on terrorist tactics, and possible future tactics Demonstrate an understanding of the drivers of the evolution and innovation in terrorist tactics and strategy


    • Core content

  • Exploring the history of terrorist strategy and tactics
  • Terrorist tactics and strategies in contemporary context
  • Understanding terrorist target selection
  • Terrorist psychology and decision-making
  • Innovation and learning in terrorism
  • Case studies of terrorist campaigns

    • Upgrade to a professional qualification

    After successful completion of this course 10 credits can be put towards the Counterterrorism MSc or Counterterrorism, Risk Management and Resilience MSc

    Cranfield credits are available for this short course which you can put towards selected Cranfield degrees. Find out more about short course credit points.




    How to apply

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

    Apply now

    Read our Professional development (CPD) booking conditions.