The module explores the evolution of counterterrorism, critically assessing the effectiveness of various strategies through detailed case studies and highlighting lessons for safeguarding critical national infrastructure (CNI). This module offers an evidence-based overview of CNI protection within the broader context of counterterrorism. Students will examine key risks, security vulnerabilities, alongside risk assessment and management strategies. The module, as the last compulsory module, brings together the key ideas from the whole of the degree and tests the applicability and effectiveness of the key ideas and policies examined throughout the degree.

At a glance

  • Dates
    • 23 - 27 Mar 2026
  • Duration5 days
  • LocationCranfield campus
  • CostShort course £2,250, accredited short course £2,500

What you will learn

On successful completion of the course you will be able to:

  • Critically examine and appraise the counterterrorism theory and models underpinning policies and measures implemented to protect critical national infrastructure (CNI),
  • Examine the evolution of terrorist and related attacks and plots targeting and assess several case studies of major counterterrorism campaigns,
  • Critically assess the nature and vulnerabilities of critical national infrastructure (CNI) and the strengths and weaknesses of different counterterrorism strategies and tactics, and their suitability in different sectors,
  • Critically appreciate the role of experts, practitioners, politicians and the general public in the development and application of counterterrorism policy and practice particularly around the roles for risk management, risk mitigation and resilience.  

Core content

  • Content Counterterrorism theories and models,
  • The nature of terrorist and related threats to CNI,
  • Evaluating impact and effectiveness in the context of both public and private sectors,
  • Prevention and deterrence, 
  • Risk assessments, mitigation and resilience in the context of CNI,
  • Case studies in CNI targeting and attack planning and responses.

Credits towards further study

Important notice

Please note we will not be taking registrations for the below courses (MSc, PgDip and PgCert) from the 2026-2027 academic year onwards:

Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology
Forensic Investigation
Digital Forensics
Counterterrorism, Security and Resilience

This means that we are no longer in a position to transfer credit associated with modules from these courses to Cranfield degree awards. We continue, however, to be able to support credit transfer to other university awards, subject to acceptance by the receiving institution.

This short course forms part of Counterterrorism, Security and Resilience and when successfully completed as an accredited short course you will gain 10 Cranfield learning credits.

Find out more about accredited short courses.

Accommodation options and prices

This course is non-residential. If you would like to book accommodation on campus, please contact Mitchell Hall or Cranfield Management Development Centre directly. Further information about our on campus accommodation can be found . 

Alternatively you may wish to make your own arrangements at a nearby hotel.

Location and travel

Situated close to Milton Keynes and Bedford, the Cranfield campus is situated in Wharley End, very close to Cranfield village, and is about 10 minutes from the M1 motorway.  There is rail and road access to most major airports as well as coach and train stations. Cranfield campus also has its own airport for private executive business travel.

Download a visitor guide including map, directions and health and safety information.

Campus address

College Road
Cranfield
Bedfordshire
MK43 0AL

 

How to apply

To apply for this course please use the online application form.

Read our Professional development (CPD) booking conditions.