Why study this course?
You will study how terrorism and extremism emerged and changed over time, how networked society creates opportunities for extremist actors to communicate and coordinate, and why the responses employed to prevent further violence can vary widely.
- Critically examine scholarly and practitioner knowledge, and develop skills around effective research, analysis and presentation.
- Designed for those who have no previous experience with these topics, or for those who may have some scholarly or practical experience with these topics who are looking to learn more about the causes and consequences of terrorism, extremism and political violence.
- The range of optional modules allows you to tailor your learning to develop expertise in the areas most relevant to your research interests or career aspirations.
- The flexible pace of study allows you to adjust your learning to work around your schedule.
Teaching
A mix of pre-recorded lectures, peer-to-peer learning, and digital resources such as interviews and podcasts at a pace that suits you.
Flexible pace
Complete the programme in as few as two years, or up to five years depending on your schedule.
Dissertation
Complete your MLitt with a 15,000-word independent research project conducted with the support of an academic supervisor.
Assessment
100% coursework with no exams. Opportunities to enhance your transferrable skills through a range of assessment styles.
Modules
Students complete two compulsory core modules and can choose from a range of optional modules.
- Students studying towards an MLitt take two core modules, six optional modules and complete an MLitt dissertation.
- Those studying towards a PGDip will complete the full taught component of the MLitt, but will not undertake the dissertation.
- Students studying towards a PGCert take two core modules and two optional modules.
If students choose not to complete the dissertation requirement for the MLitt, there is an exit award available that allows suitably qualified candidates to receive a postgraduate diploma (PGDip). By choosing an exit award, you will finish your degree at the end of the course of study and receive a PGDip instead of an MLitt.
Course information may change. Module information and course content, teaching and assessment may change each year and after you have accepted your offer to study at the University of St Andrews. We display the most up-to-date information possible, but this could be from a previous academic year. For the latest module information, see the module catalogue.
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- Explaining Terrorism: History, Ideology and Tactics in Political Violence: offers a comprehensive introduction to the study of terrorism and political violence, engaging with foundational debates, historical developments, and contemporary dynamics across global contexts. The module is designed to critically examine the evolution, causes, and consequences of terrorism in its many forms, from pre-modern to present-day manifestations.
- Researching Terrorism and Extremism: introduces students to appropriate and innovative research methods when it comes to studying terrorism, extremism and political violence. Students will be equipped to undertake their own research activities. The module will introduce and develop skills in qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, and consider the importance of ethics when conducting sensitive research.
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Optional modules will cover a range of themes such as:
- the history of terrorism
- extremism and counterextremism
- state terror
- lone actors
- critical approaches to terrorism
- counterterrorism and human rights
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The final element of the MLitt is a 15,000-word dissertation. This should focus on an area of terrorism, extremism and political violence in which you are interested. Each student is supported by a relevant supervisor, who will advise on the choice of subject and provide guidance throughout the research process.
What it will lead to
Careers
Students who graduate from this programme go on to work in various professional fields including:
- law
- policy research and consultancy
- non-governmental organisations
- charities
- international organisations
- civil service
- journalism
- publishing
We are committed to supporting your career aspirations, whatever stage your career is at. Our Careers Centre can help connect you to our extensive global alumni community for advice and mentoring, as well as offering career coaching, bespoke workshops, employer connections, experiences, and application support.
Our International Education and Lifelong Learning Institute can also support you with academic and professional skills development. The University’s Entrepreneurship Centre offers start-up support for those looking to freelance as well as create their own business.
Further study
Many graduates continue their education by enrolling in a PhD programme at St Andrews.
Why St Andrews?
Wherever you are, you can take St Andrews with you. Online Masters at the University of St Andrews combine all the benefits of studying at one of the world's oldest and best universities, with all the advantages of flexible, personalised learning.
Each February, the Handa Centre for the Study of Terrorism and Political Violence (CSTPV) hosts a non-compulsory postgraduate workshop in which both full-time and online students are invited to attend to hear from experts in the field, to network, and to meet one-to-one with lecturers and supervisors.
Both CSTPV and the School of International Relations host a variety of research seminars throughout the academic session to promote the work of the academic staff, students and visiting speakers. Where possible, we try to make these accessible to students studying online with us.
Alumni
Whether you join us online or in person, when you graduate you become a member of the University's worldwide alumni community. Benefit from access to alumni clubs, the Saint Connect networking and mentoring platform, and careers support.
Handa Centre for the Study of Terrorism and Political Violence
Our programme has been developed and is led by the Handa Centre for the Study of Terrorism and Political Violence, the oldest terrorism research centre in Europe, based within the School of International Relations.
Founded in 1994, CSTPV is dedicated to the study of the causes, dynamics, characteristics and consequences of terrorism and related forms of extremism and political violence.
Our research covers different forms of contention from across the political spectrum and from around the globe and reflects a commitment to rigorous, evidence-based, scholarly analysis that is policy-relevant and independent.
We have a long history of supporting online and professional learning and take pride in supporting our students in learning alongside professional and caring responsibilities.
Entry requirements
- A 2.1 undergraduate Honours degree in any subject from the UK or the equivalent international qualification. If you studied your first degree outside the UK, see the international entry requirements
- We will also consider applicants who do not have an undergraduate degree. In these circumstances we expect candidates to have at least five years of relevant professional experience
The Admissions team will holistically assess your application and determine the best route of entry for you. In some cases, this may be onto the PGCert in the first instance, from which students who attain a certain level in their modules will have the opportunity to progress to a full Masters degree.
The qualifications listed are indicative minimum requirements for entry. Some academic Schools will ask applicants to achieve significantly higher marks than the minimum. Obtaining the listed entry requirements will not guarantee you a place, as the University considers all aspects of every application including, where applicable, the writing sample, personal statement, and supporting documents.
Application requirements
- CV or résumé
- personal statement indicating your knowledge of the programme and how it will benefit you (1,000 words)
- sample of your own, single-authored academic written work (2,000 words). If you have been out of education for some time and cannot provide this, please provide a 2,000-word essay on the following prompt: ‘The threat of terrorism is greatly exaggerated. Discuss.’
- one original signed academic or professional references
- academic transcripts and degree certificates
For more guidance, see supporting documents and references for postgraduate taught programmes.
English language proficiency
If English is not your first language, you may need to provide an English language test score to evidence your English language ability. See approved English language tests and scores for this course.
Fees and funding
- UK: Tuition fees have yet to be set.
- Rest of the world: Tuition fees have yet to be set.
Information on our tuition fees can be found on the postgraduate fees and funding page.
Scholarships and funding
We are committed to supporting you through your studies, regardless of your financial circumstances. You may be eligible for scholarships, discounts or other support:
Contact us
- Postgraduate online information events
- The School can help with course content, teaching and other topics: ask the School
- Ask University Admissions about how to apply, fees, scholarships and other topics
Start your journey
Legal notices
Admission to the University of St Andrews is governed by our Admissions policy
Information about all programmes from previous years of entry can be found in the course archive.
Curriculum development
As a research intensive institution, the University ensures that its teaching references the research interests of its staff, which may change from time to time. As a result, programmes are regularly reviewed with the aim of enhancing students' learning experience. Our approach to course revision is described online.
Tuition fees
The University will clarify compulsory fees and charges it requires any student to pay at the time of offer. The offer will also clarify conditions for any variation of fees. The University’s approach to fee setting is described online.
Page last updated: 9 December 2025