Counterterrorism MSc

• Peter Masters

The aim of Introductory Studies is to prepare you for your subsequent programme of study on the assessed modules, and to introduce you to the requirements of your respective degree. Attendance is mandatory even though the module carries a formal credit rating of zero. The objective of the module is to assess the utility of diverse learning and research methods enabling you to select the appropriate means through which to successfully complete your studies.

The emphasis in Introductory Studies is on fundamentals and subjects are covered at first-degree level. Topics include:

• Study skills and research methods,
• MSc themes,
• Computing services and library briefings,
• Research ethics,
• Library resources and referencing,
• Explosives’ awareness,
• Healthy and safety.

 On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

• Assess the quality of sources and their suitability and relevance to produce oral and written academic work at MSc level,
• Identify fitting methodologies and skills for effective study and research,
• Organise material and communicate arguments effectively and persuasively,
• Demonstrate familiarity with the University’s conventions for referencing and for appropriate presentation of academic work,
• Manage your studies using a range of IT,
• Work in accordance with University Health and Safety policy.

• Dr Anastasia Filippidou

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.

• 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.
  
  

On successful completion of this module you should be able to:

• Analyse the major theoretical, academic and substantive debates from a range of disciplines relating to terrorism and counterterrorism,
• Critically examine and appraise research, evaluate and assess models and explanations of terrorism, and the range of counterterrorism options to these,
• Examine and critically assess several case studies of terrorism and counterterrorism campaigns,
• Critique the evidence base for understanding terrorism and which underlies counterterrorism initiatives and policies,
• Construct and formulate an argument and communicate it effectively in writing.
  
  

The aim of this module is to provide you with an evidence-based understanding of the history and modern nature of counterterrorism. The module will focus on different forms and arenas of counterterrorism and will provide a critical assessment of the effectiveness and flaws of different counterterrorism strategies and tactics. 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 focus attention on several detailed case studies to illustrate the role and impact of counterterrorism policies and practices, and how these can be improved, where necessary. The module, as the last compulsory module, brings together the key ideas from the whole of the degree and tests the applicability and effectiveness of the key ideas and policies examined throughout the degree. 

• Counterterrorism theories and models,
• Ethics and Human Rights,
• Critical debates in counterterrorism,
• CVE/PVE,
• Deradicalisation and disengagement,
• Evaluating impact and effectiveness,
• Prevention and deterrence,
• Risk assessment and management,
• Risk mitigation,
• Resilience.

• Be able to engage with and critique the evidence base underlying counterterrorism theory and models,
• Be able to critically assess the strengths and weaknesses of different counterterrorism strategies and tactics, and their suitability in different circumstances,
• Be able to critically appreciate the role of experts, practitioners, politicians and the general public in the development and application of counterterrorism policy and practice,
• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the design and evaluation of counterterrorism policies and initiatives,
• Be able to examine and critically asses several case studies of major counterterrorism campaigns. 

• Dr Anastasia Filippidou

The aim of this module is to explore the drivers and decision-making behind terrorist tactics, strategies and target selection. The module explores change and continuity in the theory and practice of counterterrorism. The module will also consider possible future trends in terrorist tactics and strategy. The module analyses change and continuity based on the three thematic areas of strategic thought, ideology, and tactics.

• Historical and comparative approaches of terrorist strategy, ideology and tactics,
• Contextualisation of terrorist tactics and strategies,
• Understanding terrorist tactics and strategies,
• 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.

By the end of this module, you should be able to:

• Critically assess 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,
• 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.

This module provides students with the opportunity to engage in a significant independent research project. Students select the topic of the research but the focus must be on an area directly relevant to the terrorism and counterterrorism focus of the programme. The project must be an original piece of research which can be either empirical or literature based in nature.

 
• Project planning
• Research Ethics
• Statistics
• Experimental design
• Literature review
• Library search techniques
• Web search techniques

On successful completion of this module, you will be able to:

• Propose, design and organise a significant piece of independent research on a chosen topic within an area of the major themes of the course,
• Critically evaluate different research methodologies and select appropriate research strategies and materials for their chosen topic,
• Demonstrate an ability to produce a substantive piece of original work consistent with the requirements of Master’s level study,
• Assemble and critically analyse thorough and in-depth literature on their chosen topic,
• Communicate research findings in clear, succinct and well-structured formats both orally and in writing,
• Appraise and identify recommendations for policy, practice and/or future research based on research findings.

This module focuses on the protection of critical national infrastructure (CNI). It outlines current risks to critical infrastructure and key resources posed by terrorism and related threats. Key concepts covered include how security vulnerabilities are analysed. Students will learn about the critical infrastructure protection cycle as well as risk assessment and risk management plans relevant to CNI.

• The concept and characteristics of critical national infrastructure (CNI),
• The nature of terrorist and related threats to CNI,
• Terrorist decision-making and attack planning on CNI,
• Protection of CNI and key resources,
• Considering CNI in the context of both public and private sectors,
• Case studies in CNI targeting and responses,
• Comparative analysis of CNI protection,
• Risk mitigation and resilience in the context of CNI,
• Understanding emerging CNI and future threats and risks.

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

• Critically analyse the nature and vulnerabilities of critical national infrastructure (CNI),
• Examine and assess the history and evolution of terrorist and related attacks and plots targeting CNI,
• Critically evaluate policies and measures implemented to protect CNI, showing awareness of legal, ethical and sector issues,
• Systematically engage with and critique the evidence around the roles for risk management, risk mitigation and resilience in the context of CNI.

This module will outline the concept of cyberterrorism and provide an introduction to the threat landscape of cyberspace and potential ways to mitigate these threats. The module will outline the ways in which terrorists and related actors use cyberspace. It will provide an overview of the technology of the Internet and through the use of case studies will explore some of the major types of cyber-attack.

• Defining and classifying cybercrime, cyberwarfare and cyberterrorism,
• The nature and scale of terrorist use of cyberspace,
• The role of state actors in cyber threats,
• Characteristics of cyberterrorism,
• Relationship between cybersecurity and cyberterrorism,
• Core debates in cybersecurity,
• NGOs and public private partnerships,
• Risk mitigation.

• Critically analyse cybersecurity and online threats related to terrorism,
• Critically evaluate and assess the characteristics of cybercrime, cyberwarfare and cyberterrorism,
• Examine and evaluate the challenges posed by cyberterrorism with regard to legal frameworks and policy responses,
• Critically evaluate the response of government, enforcement agencies and NGOs to the threat and risks posed by cyberterrorism,
• Analyse principles of resilience and risk management in developing responses to cyberterrorism.

This module looks at the development of CBRN weapons and assesses the appeal of such weapons to terrorist and related actors. Case study analysis of prior attacks and plots will be used to assess terrorist decision-making and capability in this area and to examine how they acquire and fabricate materials. Also assessed will be the effectiveness of government countermeasures in countering and mitigating the CBRN threat.

• Terrorist attack planning and decision-making
• Barriers and facilitators to terrorist use of CBRN weapons
• Psychological elements to CBRN attacks
• Case study analysis
• Detection of CBRN operations
• Preventing CBRN attacks
• Mitigation of CBRN threats
• Future risk of CBRN terrorism

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

• Critically analyse the nature and scientific basis of CBRN terrorism threats, including with regard to the production, delivery and impact of such weapons,
• Critically evaluate and assess the risk factors associated with CBRN terrorism including those related to decision-making processes, capability, resources, sponsorship, intent and ideology,
• Examine and critically assess several case studies of CBRN terrorism attacks and plots,
• Critically evaluate the evidence base used to understand CBRN terrorism as well as the countermeasures for preventing and mitigating such attacks,
• Assess and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of government agency and international responses and countermeasures to CBRN terrorism.

This module will enhance your knowledge and understanding of the development and functioning of risk management and mitigation in the context of terrorism and counterterrorism. The module will outline methods for assessing vulnerabilities associated with those threats, assessing specific risks, and how to make decisions about how to manage and mitigate these. The scope of the methods includes reducing direct and indirect damage across a range of different attack risks.

• The concept, development and characteristics of risk management and resilience,

• Risk assessment and risk management techniques,

• Understanding terrorist threats, decision-making and attack planning,

• Insights & lessons from situational crime prevention,

• Case studies in terrorism risk management,

• Risk mitigation and resilience in the context of terrorism threats,

• Future trends and issues for terrorism risk management and mitigation.

• Critically examine terrorism risk management through an assessment of risk identification, measurement, management and mitigation,
• Critically analyse the nature and importance of effective risk management processes,
• Assess the techniques associated with risk identification, estimation, evaluation and management in the context of terrorism and related threats,
• Evaluate the opportunities and challenges in applying techniques of risk management and mitigation with regard to terrorism and related threats,
• Construct and formulate argument and analysis, and communicate these effectively in a form suitable for specific target audiences.

• Dr Edith Wilkinson

The aim of this module is to critically examine the concepts of risk, crisis and resilience. In this module students assess the meaning of resilience (appreciating its origins, its development and the limits to its implementation). The concepts of risk and crisis will be examined as they are integral to the understanding of resilience. Risk and crisis management practices will be explored and debated in the context of their application as contemporary decision-making framework specifically in the fields defence and security.

• Key risk theories (including Psychological theory and Risk Perception, Cultural theory and social amplification, Risk homeostasis, Precautionary Principle),
• Risk management tools and methodology (including RM cycle, matrix, and registers),
• Crisis management frameworks (including decision-making under uncertainty),
• Notions of risk and Crisis communication,
• Components of resilience approach in the resilience in the UK and its relation to National Security,
• Societal implications of prevailing risk awareness and its relationship with resilience thinking (including points on the politics of resilience),
• Resilience from a perspective of Complex adaptive systems (social ecological literature),
• Case-studies, classroom activities.

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

• Review the concept of risk through the examination of its evolution, its application in practice and its limitations. Consider the contemporary risk environment and the implication in terms of culture,
• Critically analyse the development of academic theory and its application to the management of crises. Relate risk and crisis management tools, processes, and frameworks, and critically evaluate them,
• Discuss organisational structures and individual skills and knowledge necessary to manage crises effectively (including risk and crisis communication),
• Review the multifaceted meaning of the resilience concept and its key tenets and discuss its origins and evolution; Relate risk and crisis management frameworks to contemporary resilience strategies principally from the perspective of security,
• Introduce systems theory and its relevance to risk, crises and resilience and the repercussions on understanding the politics of resilience.

• Dr Anastasia Filippidou

To enable participants to analyse and explain current conceptual thinking regarding the nature of intelligence, its origins, motivations and manifestations, together with an in-depth knowledge and critical awareness of the intelligence approaches and strategies adopted by states. Within the context of counterterrorism, the module also examines the role of intelligence in combatting terrorism, the relationship between intelligence and secrecy and its impact, as well as the ethical issues in the use of intelligence. The module includes masterclasses given by our visiting professors, and leading practitioners in the field, who provide a unique insight on intelligence and counterterrorism.

Understanding intelligence and counterterrorism:

• Conceptual approaches to intelligence and counterterrorism,
• The origins and use of intelligence throughout history,
• Assessing the success and failure of intelligence processes,
• Intelligence approaches and strategies: assumptions, aims, frameworks and principles,
• Evaluate the purpose and structures of intelligence function,
• Identify and assess categories of intelligence (Sources, disciplines, organisations),
• Assess the influence of culture, history, power, and human factors upon the effectiveness of intelligence. assumptions, aims, frameworks and principles,
• Counterterrorism and intelligence strategies, globally, regionally and nationally,
• The intelligence ‘Toolkit’.

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

• Acquire extensive understanding of the nature of intelligence and processes of intelligence in counterterrorism,
• Explore the role and impact of intelligence on counterterrorism,
• In-depth examination of case studies on successes and shortcomings of intelligence,
• Evaluate how terrorist organisations attempt to develop their intelligence capabilities and how counter intelligence can effectively mitigate against this threat,
• Evaluate existent frameworks preventing intelligence and counter terrorism from becoming a political tool, and provide policy relevant recommendations in the fields counter-terrorism and intelligence.

• Dr Anastasia Filippidou

The module focuses on historical and contemporary comparative approaches to negotiations with violent extremists and terrorists. This module also examines different frameworks and practices of negotiations and explores the conflict dynamics and typology of terrorism that is more conducive to negotiations. The module incorporates case study analysis of different conflicts and peace processes with terrorist organisations. Guest speakers from the field add a unique insight in the application of the key ideas in different contexts.

• Historical and contemporary comparative approaches to negotiations with violent extremists and terrorists,
• Negotiations frameworks and practice,
• Conflict dynamics and typology of terrorism that is more conducive to negotiations,
• Case study analysis of different conflicts and peace processes with terrorist organisations, 
• Developing a conflict prevention plan for effective counterterrorism.

• Critically examine historical and contemporary approaches to negotiations with violent extremists and terrorists,
• Identify and evaluate the different frameworks and practices of negotiations and explore the conflict dynamics and typology of terrorism more conducive to negotiations and a non-violent resolution,
• Case study analysis of different conflicts and peace processes with terrorist organisations,
• Validate extant theories and practices, and recognise existing mechanisms for negotiations with violent extremists and terrorists,
• Evaluate and appraise the strengths and challenges of mechanisms and approaches of historical and contemporary case studies of negotiations with violent extremists and terrorist organisations,
• Identify and select preventive measures and means for the potential non-violent resolution of conflicts with violent extremists and terrorists.

• Dr Gemma Collantes Celador

To enable you to evaluate and explain authoritatively the ways in which law operates and is used, within the international and domestic contexts, to respond to terrorism.

• Legal paradigms for dealing with terrorism,
• Legal definitions of terrorism at the domestic and international levels,
• Principles of State criminal jurisdiction and extradition,
• Principles of criminal liability,
• The Special Tribunal for Lebanon,
• Self-defence and the use of armed force against terrorism,
• Terrorism and the law in armed conflicts,
• Basic principles of human rights law,
• Terrorism and derogations from human rights.

• Critically assess the different forms of international and domestic legal response to terrorism,
• Analyse and evaluate contemporary terrorism-related events and developments with reference to international and domestic criminal and human rights law,
• Demonstrate the ability to articulate the complexities of legal debates surrounding the application of international and domestic criminal justice and the protection of human rights in cases involving terrorist-type offences in terminology appropriate to the subject, but in a clear manner that can be readily understood by a non-expert audience.

The module shall provide an introduction to the principles of forensic investigations involving firearms and forensic investigations of projectile ballistics.

• Ammunition, bullet natures and cartridge identification,
• Introduction to internal and external ballistic firearms,
• Firearms classification and weapon functioning,
• UK Firearms law,
• Gunshot residue analysis techniques,
• Toolmark analysis techniques for bullet and case matching.

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

• Assess and evaluate how small arms work and operate,
• Evaluate the construction of small arms ammunition,
• Assess the use of the different sections of the 1968 Firearms Act (as amended),
• Compare and contrast the science underpinning internal and external ballistics,
• Appraise the science behind bullet/case matching and gunshot residue analysis.

The aim of the C-IED Capability course is to educate industry, military and civilian MoD C-IED and Counter Threat professionals in a system engineering & critical thinking approach to the Counter IED/Threat system.

Subjects covered will include:
• The C-IED approach in accordance with JDP 3-65(AJP-3.15(C)) and other civilian and military approaches,
• Understand the development of IED threats based on historical perspective and how these have been countered,
• Technologies involved in C-IED across Detect, Neutralise, Mitigate and Exploit,
• Incudes roles of ISTAR and ECM,
• How to advise senior and specialist staff on C-Threat,
• The importance of ‘Understand’ and information management to maintain effectiveness,
• Application of influence activities to C-Threat,
• Analysing adversary weapon systems and identifying points of influence and effect.

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

• Evaluate the benefit of C-IED activities (Predict, Pursue, Prevent, Detect, Neutralise and Mitigate and Exploit) with respect to Prepare the Force, Attack the Network and Defeat the Device,
• Predict the impact of new technologies on threat,
• Analyse the development of IED threats,
• Recommend a strategy to counter an adversary’s IED/Threat systems.

• Dr Nicholas Marquez-Grant

Understand the nature of different weapon types used in criminal activity. Evaluate the construction of improvised weapons and their wounding potential in real life scenarios.

• Discuss and evaluate commonly used weapons by examining case studies,
• Blunt Trauma and the biomechanics of tissue damage,
• The effect of body armour on wounding potential of weapons,
• Use and interpretation of wounding data,
• Microscopy and micro CT analysis,
• Practical use of stab/slash/blunt trauma rigs to examine the effect of a variety of weapons,
• Use of tissue simulants,
• Weapon identification from wounding patterns in historical cases.

On successful completion of this module you will be able to:

• Analyse wounding patterns by individual weapons,
• Assess trauma patterns in soft tissue and bone,
• Evaluate the construction of improvised weapons used in criminal activity,
• Identify and discuss the suitability of tissue simulants.