Certificate in Terrorism Studies

Professional training in the study of extremist groups and states that employ the tactic of terrorism.

Brigadier General Russell Howard, Director of MonTREP, discusses a project with students in the courtyard outside the Holland Center.  

Our program focuses on the study of violence-prone extremist groups and their historical evolution, ideological motivations, organizational structure, demographic profile, operational methods, and potential interest in carrying out mass casualty attacks, including through the acquisition and use of weapons of mass destruction (WMD).

Students of the Certificate in Terrorism Studies take courses, seminars, and workshops on terrorism taught by faculty in the Graduate School of International Policy and Management (GSIPM) and the Monterey Terrorism Research and Education Program (MonTREP), internationally recognized as a leading center of expertise on terrorism and ideological extremism.

During their studies at MIIS, Certificate in Terrorism Studies students are eligible to work as research assistants on various MonTREP projects, including on the WMD Terrorism database, researching terrorist organizations and networks, and timely analyses of events and issues related to terrorism. Students trained in Terrorism Studies at the Monterey Institute go on to careers focused on analyzing, assessing, or combating terrorism. Most graduates work in responsible positions in US government agencies, international organizations, academic research centers, and the private sector.

Admissions Requirements

Individuals holding advanced degrees (i.e., an MA or above, or the equivalent) or having equivalent levels of work experience in the areas of international policy, law, various sciences, intelligence analysis, or related law enforcement fields may apply for admission to obtain a Certificate in Terrorism Studies. Please contact one of our Enrollment Managers for more details.

Monterey Institute students enrolled in degree programs (including the BAIS, MAIPS, MPA, MBA, MAIEP, and the MA degrees granted by the Graduate School of Translation, Interpretation, and Language Education may also apply for admission for the Certificate in Terrorism Studies. Completing the Certificate requires a minimum of 16 credits in addition to those required for a degree. Students may not count the same credits toward both a degree and a non-degree Certificate.

Required and Optional Courses (16 credits)

Required Course

All students earning the Certificate in Terrorism Studies must complete the following course:

Optional Courses and Workshops

In addition to the above required course, students earning the Certificate in Terrorism Studies must complete at least 12 credits of advanced courses and/or workshops in Terrorism Studies. The list of courses that count as electives for the TS Certificate is subject to change at any time; for any questions about available courses that will count toward the NP Certificate, contact the MANPTS Program Chair.

As of May 14, 2013, courses and workshops in this field include the following:

 The requirements listed above are effective as of June, 2013.