Critical Perspectives on Terrorism (L4110A)

15 credits, Level 6

Autumn teaching

On this module, you’ll use an interdisciplinary approach to investigate terrorism. 

You’ll explore:

• important theories on terrorism studies, sociology, criminology and social psychology 
• both established and emerging (primary) research in the field
• a range of contemporary issues within the study of terrorism
• what radicalisation means
• how and why people become radicalised
• the relationships between petty, street criminals and terrorists within the ‘new crime-terror nexus’
• the existential attractions of violent extremism
• the use of the internet by terrorists and ways to disrupt this
• counter-terrorism approaches and policy.

Contact hours and workload

This module is approximately 150 hours of work. This breaks down into about 20 hours of contact time and about 130 hours of independent study. The University may make minor variations to the contact hours for operational reasons, including timetabling requirements.

We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2026/27. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum.

We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.

Courses

This module is offered on the following courses:

• Criminology BA
• Criminology and Sociology BA
• Criminology with Psychology BA
• Law with Criminology LLB