University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 11

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: Thursday 3-5pm

This module will provide students with an overview of the evolution, characteristics, and decline of terrorist movements and campaigns since 1945 by looking at different forms of terrorism (ethnic, religious, social-revolutionary) as well as the responses that both states and international organisations have developed in order to cope with it. The module will also address state and state-sponsored terrorism and the problems that arise once a state actor is involved in terrorism. Moreover, it will examine why and under what circumstances terrorism and antiterrorism responses have been successful. Finally, students will take part in a simulation of UN antiterrorism negotiations in which they will represent a country, research this country's experience with and stance on terrorism and advance the respective government's key interest regarding a comprehensive UN antiterrorism convention.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 2-hour seminar + advertised office hours

Scheduled learning hours: 46

Guided independent study hours: 254

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100% (including presentations worth 30%)

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 0%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr B Blumenau

Intended learning outcomes

• Understand the historical development of the concept of terrorism and its changing characteristics over time
• Critically examine the efforts that states and international organisations have developed to cope with terrorism
• Understanding the complexities and political implications of terrorism that is either supported or conducted by states
• Understand the evolution, ideological underpinnings, targeting rationales, and decline of different types of terrorist movements
• Discuss whether terrorism and antiterrorism efforts have been successful in achieving their respective objectives
• Familiarise themselves with present forms of terrorism and possible measures to cope with them