MA Security Studies

at Birmingham City University

COURSE IN DEPTH
 

Modules
 

In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 160 credits):

 

Security and International Relations Theory
20 credits

 

This module is designed to develop within students a detailed understanding of the theoretical underpinnings of Security Studies in International Relations through an examination of the various different schools of thought that exist within the discipline. The module makes use of face-to-face teaching in the form of workshops alongside blended learning outside of scheduled time in the classroom.

 

Research Methods
20 credits

 

This module is designed to enable students to develop an understanding of the research process and the nature and variety of research methods together with the need for an evidence base to guide decision making process. The design of the module allows for face-to-face and blended learning.

 

International Institutions and Security
20 credits

 

Cooperation among countries in order to create a peaceful world has been pursued for over a century. However, the creation of international institutions has also provoked unexpected and expected international security problems. This module examines the link between International Institutions and Security Studies.

 

Contemporary Security
20 credits

 

Rather than simply to provide students with a module that gives a broad overview to the various different topics that come under the remit of Security Studies this module gives students a chance to study a series of genuinely contemporary and often ongoing issues within security that vary from individual case studies, events or overarching themes. The module reflects the interests and research expertise of the teaching team to give students an eclectic and varied module that builds on the theoretical insights they gained in Security and International Relations Theory and apply these to present day case studies.

 

Researching Crime and Security
20 credits

 

The purpose of ‘Researching Crime and Security’ is to build upon the basic practical research skills acquired in the ‘Research Methods’ module and to begin to critically consider central areas of contemporary Crime and Security research. In order to do this, students are expected to be involved in individual and collective learning opportunities provided in the module and then work both individually and collaboratively to deliver a research tender, hence demonstrating that they have acquired practical and transferable skills that are clearly linked to either employment or HEI work in the field of social research.

 

Dissertation in Security Studies
60 credits

 

This module provides students with the opportunity to carry out a self-directed, empirical and critical investigation of a specific criminology or Security Studies topic. A dissertation will usually contain an extended literature review, methodology, summary of findings and conclusion, although this is an indicative guide only and the final product will vary dependent upon topic and method selected.

 

In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete at least 20 credits from the following indicative list of OPTIONAL modules:

 

Terrorism, Political Violence and Extremism
20 credits

 

This module will offer students the opportunity to deepen their understanding of the sources, dynamics and consequences of contemporary political violence, and to consider the significance of terrorism and conflict within the broader realm of politics and international relations (IR). It will also ‘critically’ analyse the policies and politics of preventing and countering terrorism at both the national and international levels.

 

Inside-Out
20 credits

 

Homicide & Harm: Critical Understandings of Violence
20 credits

 

Understanding Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence
20 credits

 

Green Criminology in an Age of Climate Breakdown
20 credits

 

Contemporary Coercions: Norms, practices, and systems of control in society
20 credits

 

All core modules are guaranteed to run. Optional modules will vary from year to year and the published list is indicative only.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study. The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation (capped at 5%) or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament. View fees for continuing students.

Award: MA Starting: Sep 2022
Full Time 1 year £16,300 in 2022/23

The teaching team draws on the combined with the expertise of members of the Centre for Applied Criminology, who will give you cutting-edge criminological knowledge from their impactful and high-profile research, as well as giving you excellent access to experienced practitioners and Criminal Justice System organisations.

 

The access provided to professionals, the presence of practitioners among fellow students and the capacity to reflect upon relevant volunteering or work experience within the structure of the course means that the course provides excellent opportunities for building contacts and networking, as well as developing opportunities for employment.

 

The School of Social Sciences has relationships with a number of criminal justice agencies and non-government organisations, including the local Community Safety Partnership, HMP Grendon and the Howard League.

 

OpportUNIty

 

OpportUNIty: Student Jobs on Campus ensures that our students are given a first opportunity to fill many part-time temporary positions within the University. This allows you to work while you study with us, fitting the job around your course commitments. By taking part in the scheme, you will gain valuable experiences and employability skills, enhancing your prospects in the job market.

 

It will also allow you to become more involved in University life by delivering, leading and supporting many aspects of the learning experience, from administration to research and mentoring roles.