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The Master of Science (M.S.) in Counterterrorism degree is a flexible online ten-course program that provides a comprehensive specialization in terrorism and counterterrorism studies in all their manifestations. Beginning with an introductory course on intelligence analytic methods and their application to terrorism and counterterrorism, the next courses focus on the components of terrorism and counterterrorism in the United States and internationally, as well as critical infrastructure protection and cybersecurity. The final two courses, “Tools and Techniques of Counterterrorism” and “Seminar in Terrorism and Counterterrorism” expose students to the application of significant methodologies and tools in the study of terrorism and counterterrorism, such as Analyst's Notebook, Social Network Analysis, Excel, Root Cause Analysis, Enterprise Security Risk Management (ESRM), Metrics of Programmatic Effectiveness, Forecasting Methodologies, Datamining, Protective Intelligence Platforms, Artificial Intelligence, and others. The program’s final course is a practicum project, with the students writing a thesis in which they apply one or more of the methodologies and software tools to analyze how to formulate a counterterrorism campaign plan to address a significant terrorism case. This will provide the students the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise gained in the courses.

The courses are delivered via the university’s Canvas distance learning portal, which provides an interactive and engaging environment. For example, the courses will include interesting textbooks and readings, videos, and other Internet resources, such as “virtual field” visits to significant governmental counterterrorism websites to see how counterterrorism is conducted.

The MS in Counterterrorism Courses program will include a portal that will keep the students engaged on terrorism and counterterrorism issues and incidents as they occur during the program, including regular engagement with the courses’ instructors.

This online Master’s degree in counterterrorism prepares ambitious and working professionals to advance in their careers, as well as pursue a PhD degree, if desired.

Why Capitol?

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Our programs provide practical experience

At Capitol, we believe online learning can equal and even surpass a traditional classroom environment, as it provides a 24/7 continuous engagement. Our faculty are recognized academic and practitioner experts in terrorism and counterterrorism studies. We provide our online learners with virtual labs and a state-of-the-art multi-media instructional delivery platform. With our program, you’ll gain the interaction and hands-on practice you need to develop your potential as practitioners and academics. 

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We’re industry-focused

Capitol has built a strong track record of providing high-quality academic programs that respond to emerging industry needs, from business analytics to cybersecurity.

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Program is 100% online

Our master’s in Counterterrorism is offered 100% online. Once you are accepted, all you need is an Internet connection and you can attend class. We keep the classes small so you receive personalized attention from faculty who are interested in sharing their knowledge and helping you succeed.

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Degree Details


Curriculum

Generally, to apply to a graduate degree program, you should have completed a bachelor's degree or be completing a bachelor's degree prior to enrollment and should have a 3.0 cumulative grade point average or higher.

Some master of science programs have additional technical competency requirements.


Tuition & Fees

Tuition rates are subject to change.

The following rates are in effect for the 2022-2023 academic year, beginning in Fall 2022 and continuing through Summer 2023:

  • The per credit charge for graduate courses:
    • Online or satellite campus (per credit) - $630, plus fees (information technology and other applicable fees)
    • Independent study (per credit) - $877, plus fees (information technology and other applicable fees)
  • The active duty military tuition rate is $350 per credit, plus fees (additional discounts and scholarships do not apply)
  • The retired military tuition rate is $530 per credit, plus fees (additional discounts and scholarships do not apply)
  • There is no charge for online application, $40 fee for paper application

For 2023-2024 masters tuition and fees, click here.

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