Intelligence & International Security

Course detail Description

Our course will enable you to examine the nature, processes, roles and case studies of intelligence and their interaction with developments in international security. In examining the trends that continue to shape intelligence and geo-strategic developments in the 21st century our course offers a unique multidisciplinary approach based on the strengths of the department. We aim to provide a framework in which to understand the nature and role of intelligence in its relationship to wider issues in war and international security; an understanding of the processes, practices and institutions that have characterised intelligence in the modern era; an understanding of the problems connected with intelligence collection,assessment and ability to predict events in world affairs; and an appreciation of the particular ethical concerns generated by intelligence related phenomena.

Our course is for graduates and professionals with an interest in understanding the nature and role of intelligence. It is designed to have broad-ranging appeal if you are interested in pursuing graduate studies in intelligence and security studies. You will also find this programme of interest if you are a graduate in politics, history, international relations and strategic studies; if you have practical experience in the intelligence community and wish to reflect on the wider issues and implications of your experience; or are a professional in defence, diplomacy and foreign affairs.

Teaching

Per 40-credit module, you will have 40 hours of lectures, semianrs and feedback, as well as 340 hours of self-study. Typically, one credit equates to 10 hours of work. For the dissertation module, you will have 12 hours of training workshops and supervision to complement the 588 hours of self-study.

Assessment

• Most 20 to 40-credit modules are assessed through a combination of essays (3000-6000 words), presentation, oral vivas, and/or exams.
• The dissertation module assessment will be based on a 100% dissertation assignment (up to 15,000 words).

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Structure

Year 1

Courses are divided into modules, and students on this course take modules totalling 180 credits.

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on this course page for updates.

• Intelligence in Peace & War (40 credits)
• Dissertation (60 credits)

In addition, you are required to take 80 credits from a range of optional modules that may typically include:

• Armchair Intelligence – Open Sources & Online Investigation (20 credits)
• Cyber Security (40 credits)
• Home grown Radicalisation & Counter-Radicalisation in Western Europe & North America (40 credits)
• Past & Present of British Intelligence (40 credits)
• Preventing Violent Radicalisation (20 credits)
• Wars within Wars: Intelligence Wars, Dirty Wars & Secret Wars (40 credits)
• The War on Terror: Anglo-American Foreign & Security Policy since 9/11 (20 credits)

If you are studying part-time, in your first year you will take 40 credits of required taught modules and 40 credits of optional modules. In your second year you will take your dissertation (60 credits) and a further 40 credits of optional modules.