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 introduce students to the fundamental debates relating to terrorism and counterterrorism. It will address a range of key issues, including definitions, root causes, history & evolution, and major theories. This module will also introduce students to the research methods and data analysis used to understand and assess terrorism and counterterrorism.

At a glance

  • Dates
    • Please enquire for course dates
  • Duration5 days
  • LocationCranfield campus
  • Cost

    £1,340 - Accredited Short Course Fee

    £350 per/day - Standalone Short Course


What you will learn

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

  • To develop knowledge and understanding of the major theoretical, academic and substantive debates relating to terrorism and counterterrorism. 
  • Display a sound appreciation of the definition debate within terrorism studies and the difficulties and implications of this debate.
  • To develop a strong awareness of the long history of terrorism and counterterrorism, and the current nature of modern terrorist conflicts
  • To develop the analytical skills to critically research, evaluate and assess models and explanations of terrorism, and the range of counterterrorism options to these. 
  • Display an awareness of the role cultural, religious, ethnic, economic, media and other value systems can play in understanding terrorism and counterterrorism.
  • Display a detailed knowledge of several case studies of terrorism and counterterrorism campaigns.
  • Be able to engage with and critique the evidence base for understanding terrorism and which underlies counterterrorism initiatives and polices.

    • Core content

  • Defining ‘terrorism’
  • Exploring the history and evolution of terrorism and counterterrorism
  • Major theories and debates on terrorism and counterterrorism
  • Research approaches and methodologies
  • Psychology of terrorism & counterterrorism
  • Root causes of terrorism
  • Case studies of terrorist groups and conflicts
  • Fundamentals of counterterrorism
  • The terrorism/counterterrorism dynamic
  • Case studies of counterterrorism policies


    • Upgrade to a professional qualification

    After successful completion of this course 20 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.