Countering Terrorism & Extremism Bachelor of Science (with Honours) - BSc (Hons)

100% of our Counter terrorism & Transnational Crime students were in graduate level employment or higher study 15 months after finishing their course.

Graduate Outcomes Survey 2026

How do we understand and respond to terrorism and extremism? How can society balance security, risk, identity and individual rights?

Study Countering Terrorism and Extremism at Canterbury Christ Church University and develop the critical insight and applied skills needed to understand one of the most complex challenges facing society today. You’ll explore real-world cases, examine the security and threat issues often missing from media coverage, and develop a deeper understanding of how terrorism and extremism are understood and addressed.

This interdisciplinary course explores the history, complexities and impact of terrorism and extremism, examining topics including power, inequality, identity, community, conflict, ethics, politics, policy, international relations and policing powers.

What you’ll learn

* Analyse terrorism and extremism through critical and contextual perspectives.

* Explore real-world cases and contemporary approaches to countering terrorism and extremism.

* Examine the relationship between security, risk, identity, inequality and social issues.

* Apply theory to practice through simulations, including the Hydra Suite, and skills-based assessments.

* Develop an understanding of counter-terrorism responses through perspectives including policing, criminology, sociology, politics, law and forensic investigation.

* Build transferable skills relevant to careers in security, intelligence, policing, research and related sectors.

With an applied perspective at its core, the course balances theoretical knowledge with practical understanding. You’ll learn through simulated exercises, working on real cases, applied assessments and insights from an experienced teaching team, including input from current and previous professionals working in terrorism and extremism.

Drawing on CCCU’s extensive experience in policing education, you’ll study in a collaborative environment where you are encouraged to debate, critique and question concepts and theories. You’ll benefit from an interdisciplinary approach, exploring how different perspectives can help us understand and respond to terrorism and extremism.

On completion of your course, you’ll have developed the knowledge and transferable skills needed for a range of careers across policing, security, intelligence, criminal justice and beyond. Graduates may pursue opportunities with organisations including the police, National Crime Agency, intelligence agencies, government, community safety organisations and the private security sector.

This course also offers the opportunity to take a placement year in industry or spend a year abroad at one of our prestigious partner institutions in North America. You’ll gain valuable real-world experience, build your professional skills and networks, broaden your horizons, and enhance your employability.