Bachelor of Social Science with a Major in Security and Counter Terrorism

Cyber Security

Examine the role of technology in the changing nature of warfare.

Countering Violent Extremism

Explore contemporary issues in counter-terrorism such as radicalisation.

International Politics

Gain an understanding of the major institutions, events and issues in international politics.

Dictators & Democrats

Examine the key concepts of Political Science and comparative political systems.

International Relations

Explore the role of the United Nations and the problems associated with global governance.

On successful completion of this Course students will be able to:

1. Systematically review and critically evaluate research from a variety of sources to inform their knowledge and conceptual understandings in security and counter terrorism.
2. Formulate arguments that are fit for purpose and demonstrate an understanding of the relevant theories and evidence in their areas of disciplinary expertise.
3. Critically analyse information to generate creative solutions to solve complex problems in the area of security and counter terrorism.
4. Define and integrate theoretical principles and apply these in their disciplinary areas of expertise.
5. Apply knowledge and skills with responsibility and accountability for their own learning and practice, individually and in collaboration with others.
6. Interpret and communicate ideas, problems and arguments in modes suitable to a range of audiences using a range of media.
7. Coherently articulate a line of reasoning demonstrating cultural sensitivity and apply a framework to analyse and offer solutions to ethical dilemmas in local and international contexts.

As a student of security and counter terrorism, you’ll have the chance to make a lasting difference to our community.

You’ll be taught by experts from a range of professional backgrounds, such as human rights lawyers and politicians, who will give you industry-level knowledge of these vital topics.

In this flexible course, you’ll learn about the changing nature of security in the twenty-first century. Topics covered include cybersecurity and the role of technology in contemporary warfare, as well as the major institutions and players in international politics, and strategies for countering violent extremism and radicalisation. You’ll also be able to tailor half of your degree to study the themes that interest you most, by taking electives or studying related social science topics.

With every unit designed to boost your professionalism, you’ll graduate with an understanding of the complex issues that inform and influence security, terrorism, and human rights. You’ll learn how create reports which unpack complex issues, giving you the skills to contribute to the strategic and operational protection of national security.

Students who complete this course can become job-ready for roles in risk analysis, security advisory, intelligence analysis, counter terrorism consulting, overseas aid and development and more.

This course is not available to international students.

Recommended study pattern

Core Social Science units

Learning and Communicating Online (COM10003)

Sociological Foundations (SOC10004)

Introduction to Research Methods (PSY10005)

Connecting with Culture: Indigenous Australian Experiences (INS10001)

Australian Politics (POL10001)

Security and Counter Terrorism Major units

Countering Violent Extremism (POL30016)

International Politics (POL10002)

Dictators and Democrats: Comparative Politics (POL20009)

International Relations and Security Studies (POL20010)

Conflict Resolution (POL20011)

Critical Perspectives on Terrorism (Capstone Unit) (POL30009)

Cyber Crime and Security (POL30018)

Recommended electives

Fundamentals of Criminology (CRI10002)

Brain and Behaviour (PSY10007)

Fundamentals of Psychology (PSY70012)

Deviance, Difference & Conformity (SOC20020)

Award requirements

To qualify for a Bachelor of Social Science (Security and Counter Terrorism), a student must complete 300 credit points comprising of:

• Four [4] core units of study in Security and Counter Terrorism (50 credit points)
• Eight [8] units of study in the Security and Counter Terrorism major (100 credit points)
• Twelve [12] units of study (150 credit points) comprising of electives

*A maximum of 100 credit points may be taken from non-Social Science/Arts studies.

Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.

Indicative total fee $50,976

The amounts shown here are indicative for an Australian citizen studying full-time, which is typically 8 subjects per year.

Fees may vary depending on:

• the subjects you choose
• credit from previous work experience
• your eligibility for government funding loans or subsidies such as HECS-HELP or a Commonwealth supported place.

To learn more, go to Fees or contact a student advisor.

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Completion or partial completion of an approved tertiary qualification (including diplomas, advanced diplomas, associate degrees and degrees). Additional performance criteria and prerequisite requirements may also apply.

Students admitted to the course with prior tertiary studies that satisfy part of the academic requirements of this course may be eligible for academic credit of up to 16 units.

Successful completion of the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) or its equivalent, such as an interstate or international Year 12 qualification.

VCE Pre-requisites

• Applicants must meet the associated minimum ATAR score.
• Units 3 and 4 – a study score of at least 30 in English (EAL) or at least 25 in English other than EAL.

Applicants without a formal qualification but with significant and relevant work experience and appropriate English language skills, or a suitable Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) result, will be considered if they can demonstrate that they can undertake the course with a reasonable prospect of success.

Students admitted to the course with prior tertiary studies that satisfy part of the academic requirements of this course may be eligible for academic credit of up to 16 units.

Credit transfer

Credit is granted in recognition of previous study and/or experience and allows students to gain advanced standing towards their course. Applicants are assessed on a case-by-case basis. Speak to a Course Consultant about applying for credit.

Recognition of Prior Learning

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) allows students to gain credit (advanced standing) towards their course in recognition of skills and knowledge gained through work experience, life experience and/or formal training. Applicants are assessed on a case-by-case basis. Speak to a Course Consultant about applying for RPL.