University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 9

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: Thurs 12-2pm Thurs 3-5pm

This module will explore 'orthodox'/mainstream, critical, and peace studies approaches to counter-terrorism. Each approach to counter-terrorism (CT) considers different priorities, norms, and security strategies. The module highlights that counter-terrorism practices and procedures offer different perspectives and quite possibly different results. Orthodox or mainstream approaches tend to prioritize security, whilst knowing this often collides with human and civil rights as well as civil liberties. The critical terrorism studies approach interrogates the construction and securitization of what is considered ?terrorism.? Finally, peace studies offers a vision of security that, through its emphasis on multilateralism, protects the rule of law and human rights.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass IR2006

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: This module will be delivered as a 2-hour/week seminar.

Scheduled learning hours: 46

Guided independent study hours: 254

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%


Re-assessment: 3-hour Written Examination =100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr M N Micheni
Module teaching staff: Dr Makena Micheni
Module coordinator email mnm5@st-andrews.ac.uk

Intended learning outcomes

• Demonstrate knowledge of the goals, problems, and solutions to CT.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the various perspectives to being a counter-terrorist.
• Recognize that terrorism and CT are separate study fields and yet also overlap.
• Understand and recognize the key debates in counter-terrorism before and after 9/11
• Recognize the role of gender and ethics in terrorism and CT studies.
• Understand the debate around critical approaches to terrorism and CT.