About Terrorism, International Crime And Global Security MA in Coventry University

Since the end of the Cold War there has been a growing awareness of the changing nature of security threats facing individuals, communities and states worldwide. With intensifying economic, political, cultural and military globalisation, there is now a heightened awareness of terrorism and international crime.

This interdisciplinary course identifies the challenges these threats pose to national and global governance, human rights and ethics, criminality and regionalism. It builds on our established expertise in the fields of politics, international relations, global and human security, peace and reconciliation studies. 

Guest speakers and field trips are an integral part of the course, which include visits to the counter-crime, counter terrorism and counter modern slavery organisations. Previous students have been able to work on placements with the local police forces, as well as non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and international organisations within Europe, including the antimafia organisation AddioPizzo in Sicily, Ethicando in Paris, the UN NGO Women’s Federation for World Peace in Geneva, the Institute of Cultural Diplomacy in Berlin, CISS (International Cooperation South-South) in Italy, and Chatham House in London.

Why Coventry University?

An award-winning university, we are committed to providing our students with the best possible experience. We continue to invest in both our facilities and our innovative approach to education. Our students benefit from industry-relevant teaching, and resources and support designed to help them succeed. These range from our modern library and computing facilities to dedicated careers advice and our impressive Students’ Union activities.

Course information

Our experienced faculty includes active researchers who also work or consult for governments, international organisations and prominent think tanks.

 In the most recent national research assessment, the 2014 Research Excellence Framework (REF), 69% of research in Politics and International Studies was recognised internationally, of which 32% was considered ‘internationally excellent’. 

This course is one of the first to offer an integrated study of terrorism, organised crime and global security. It aims to provide you with an informed understanding of key threats that are posed to world politics, how they have evolved and the differing – occasionally controversial – national responses.

Throughout taught sessions, we will draw on case studies and practical illustrations. For instance, during ‘The Ticking Time Bomb Debate’, we consider whether it is justified to use torture on a captured individual, credibly identified as a terrorist leader with knowledge of the whereabouts of a ‘dirty bomb’ capable of killing thousands planted in the centre of London and timed to go off within 24 hours. In another exercise, we undertake a ‘mafia vs antimafia simulation’ on the challenges mafia/organised criminal groups pose to civil society and law enforcement agencies. Previous simulations have included case studies in Mexico, West Africa, the Balkans, Southern Italy and Japan.

Our innovative teaching includes enhancing your digital skills. For example, during the international security field trip to Sicily, you will be introduced to a variety of topics analysing both the role of Cosa Nostra and the antimafia experiences in Sicily and state and non-state responses to the trafficking and smuggling of human beings. Then, working in teams, you will have the opportunity to develop an area you are particularly interested in and produce a 10-minute (maximum) information video-podcast on the topic. The podcast must contain at least one of the following, as appropriate to the chosen topic: secondary footage (respecting issues of copyright); primary interviews; and observation (respecting ethical considerations, particularly consent for filming others).

Career prospects

Employers are looking for individuals with the ability to work across different cultures, to manage teams and possess problem-solving and critical analysis skills.

The CMI accredited ‘Global Professional Development’ module will help to set you apart in a competitive job market. You should gain practical leadership skills to critically evaluate and develop solutions for complex, inter-related, multi-faceted issues that you will experience in your future organisations.

We encourage you to gain first-hand experience through volunteering and placement opportunities. In the past, students have undertaken internships in counter terrorism with the West Midlands Police or antimafia and anti-trafficking grass-root project in Sicily, France and Greece and spent time conducting research in universities abroad, such as the Arab-American University in Jenin, or an antimafia research centre in Palermo.

The course can help you purse or advance a career in the armed forces, police force, international agencies such as the United Nations or the European Union or other international NGOs.

Where our graduates work

Our graduates have been successful in securing employment in the foreign services of a range of countries from Ethiopia to the UK, as well as working in government departments in Barbados, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and the United Kingdom. Several have gone on to enter the diplomatic service in their home country; others have sought careers in international organisations, nongovernmental organisations, or international commerce and business.

Some students are now working with big security firms in different parts of the world, others with NGOs and national police or military forces.

Applicants should hold a good honours degree in a relevant academic discipline. Applications from candidates with relevant experiences will be considered on an individual basis.

English as a Foreign Language: This course requires IELTS of 6.5 overall, with no component lower than 5.5. Pre-sessional English is available if required.

Our International Student Hub offers information on entry requirements for your country, as well as contact details for agents and representatives should you need more advice.

Coventry University Highlights

Coventry University The Average Tuition Fees And Other Expenses