Key Issues in Terrorism and Political Violence

Explores the concept of terrorism, the types of terrorism and prominent terrorist groups, before evaluating the international measures to curb terrorism and exploring the role of business and media sectors in countering terrorist activities, while examining emerging trends in terrorism.

Course Content

Participants critically examine:

• The features of terrorism and the different types of terrorists.
• The impact and effectiveness of terrorism as a political weapon
• Responses to terrorism: the international community, the democratic dilemma, and crisis and consequences management
• The background and characteristics of Al Qaeda, its offshoots and other jihadist groups including IS
• The threat to the international community and key features of effective international response
• Requirements from the public, media and private sector in effectively countering terrorist threats
• Emerging trends in terrorism post the 9/11 attack on the US.

Terrorist Ideologies, Aims, Beliefs & Motivations

Focuses on the ideologies that motivate individuals and groups to resort to terrorism. The module also describes the use of various propaganda methods by terrorist groups and examines the global trends in terrorist activities. Understanding the terrorist mind-set is critical to countering terrorism effectively and enhances a participant's analytical ability by identifying the various strains of influence within today's terrorist groups and networks.

Award & Accreditation

Successful completion of the Certificate/Advanced Certificate leads to a certificate of professional development from the University of St Andrews.

Completion of 4 online modules leads to the award of the Certificate in Terrorism Studies, SCQF Level 8 and 20 credits.

Completion of 8 online modules leads to the award of the Advanced Certificate in Terrorism Studies, SCQF Level 8 and 40 credits.

Individual modules do not carry an accreditation.

Successful recipients of the Advanced Certificate in Terrorism Studies are eligible to apply for the MLitt in Terrorism and Political Violence (distance learning) at the University of St Andrews.