Develop knowledge of terrorism, threat assessment, protective security and emergency preparedness to support effective risk management and public protection.
Course overview
The Level 4 Certificate in Counter Terrorism and Protective Security Studies provides learners with an internationally relevant understanding of terrorism, security threats, protective security and organisational preparedness. The programme combines academic study with practical professional application, developing the knowledge and skills required to assess security risks, recommend proportionate protective measures and support the protection of people, premises and organisations.
Delivered online over six months on a part-time basis, the qualification examines terrorism and extremism, intelligence and threat assessment, protective security management, incident preparedness, emergency response and professional governance. Learners will also explore international counter terrorism approaches and relevant legislation, including the United Kingdom's Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, commonly known as Martyn's Law.
The programme adopts Britannia College's Inclusive by Design approach, using realistic professional scenarios, risk assessments, security plans and applied projects rather than relying exclusively on traditional academic examinations.
The qualification comprises five units, carries 40 credits and is designed to support professional development and progression within the security and public protection sectors.
Delivered online over six months on a part-time basis, the qualification examines terrorism and extremism, intelligence and threat assessment, protective security management, incident preparedness, emergency response and professional governance. Learners will also explore international counter terrorism approaches and relevant legislation, including the United Kingdom's Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, commonly known as Martyn's Law.
The programme adopts Britannia College's Inclusive by Design approach, using realistic professional scenarios, risk assessments, security plans and applied projects rather than relying exclusively on traditional academic examinations.
The qualification comprises five units, carries 40 credits and is designed to support professional development and progression within the security and public protection sectors.
Who this course is for
This qualification is designed for individuals seeking to develop or advance their knowledge of counter terrorism and protective security, including those working in private security, public safety, policing, emergency services, venue management, event security, corporate security and related professional environments.
It is also suitable for managers and supervisors responsible for organisational security, public-facing premises or emergency preparedness, as well as individuals seeking to enter the protective security profession.
The programme welcomes learners from the United Kingdom and internationally. Previous employment in counter terrorism or protective security is not essential, although relevant professional experience may support learning and assessment.
It is also suitable for managers and supervisors responsible for organisational security, public-facing premises or emergency preparedness, as well as individuals seeking to enter the protective security profession.
The programme welcomes learners from the United Kingdom and internationally. Previous employment in counter terrorism or protective security is not essential, although relevant professional experience may support learning and assessment.
Why study this course
Terrorism and deliberate security threats present significant challenges for organisations, governments and communities worldwide. Effective protective security requires more than awareness of threats. It demands informed risk assessment, proportionate security planning, operational preparedness and professional judgement.
This qualification develops the ability to examine complex security challenges and translate theoretical knowledge into practical organisational solutions. Learners will develop skills in threat assessment, security risk management, protective security planning, emergency preparedness and the preparation of professional recommendations.
The course incorporates contemporary protective security principles and examines relevant international frameworks, including the UK's Martyn's Law. Its international approach enables learners to apply their knowledge within different jurisdictions and professional environments.
Through realistic assessments, learners will produce a portfolio of professional work demonstrating their ability to evaluate risks, develop security measures and advise organisations. The qualification also provides a foundation for further study and professional development in security management, counter terrorism and public protection.
This qualification develops the ability to examine complex security challenges and translate theoretical knowledge into practical organisational solutions. Learners will develop skills in threat assessment, security risk management, protective security planning, emergency preparedness and the preparation of professional recommendations.
The course incorporates contemporary protective security principles and examines relevant international frameworks, including the UK's Martyn's Law. Its international approach enables learners to apply their knowledge within different jurisdictions and professional environments.
Through realistic assessments, learners will produce a portfolio of professional work demonstrating their ability to evaluate risks, develop security measures and advise organisations. The qualification also provides a foundation for further study and professional development in security management, counter terrorism and public protection.
Accreditation and recognition
The Level 4 Certificate in Counter Terrorism and Protective Security Studies is a professional qualification developed and awarded by Britannia College under its academic and quality assurance framework.
The qualification is positioned at Level 4, carries 40 credits and comprises five units covering terrorism and international security, intelligence and threat assessment, protective security management, incident preparedness and professional governance.
The programme integrates academic knowledge with practical professional application, incorporating threat assessment, security risk management, protective security planning, emergency preparedness and organisational accountability. Assessment is designed to demonstrate the application of knowledge through realistic professional scenarios, critical evaluation and the development of practical security solutions.
The qualification supports continuing professional development and the advancement of knowledge and professional capability across protective security, policing, public safety, emergency management, corporate security and related sectors. It also provides a foundation for progression to further study and professional development in relevant disciplines.
The qualification is positioned at Level 4, carries 40 credits and comprises five units covering terrorism and international security, intelligence and threat assessment, protective security management, incident preparedness and professional governance.
The programme integrates academic knowledge with practical professional application, incorporating threat assessment, security risk management, protective security planning, emergency preparedness and organisational accountability. Assessment is designed to demonstrate the application of knowledge through realistic professional scenarios, critical evaluation and the development of practical security solutions.
The qualification supports continuing professional development and the advancement of knowledge and professional capability across protective security, policing, public safety, emergency management, corporate security and related sectors. It also provides a foundation for progression to further study and professional development in relevant disciplines.
Entry requirements
Applicants are normally expected to hold a Level 3 qualification or an equivalent international qualification. Relevant subjects may include security, policing, criminology, public services, emergency management, business or related disciplines.
Applicants without formal qualifications may be considered through an alternative entry route where they can demonstrate relevant professional experience, prior learning or transferable skills appropriate for Level 4 study.
Applicants should possess sufficient digital literacy to participate in online learning, undertake independent research and complete professional assessments.
Admission decisions are made on an individual basis, taking account of academic qualifications, professional experience and the applicant's ability to undertake the programme successfully.
Applicants without formal qualifications may be considered through an alternative entry route where they can demonstrate relevant professional experience, prior learning or transferable skills appropriate for Level 4 study.
Applicants should possess sufficient digital literacy to participate in online learning, undertake independent research and complete professional assessments.
Admission decisions are made on an individual basis, taking account of academic qualifications, professional experience and the applicant's ability to undertake the programme successfully.
English-language requirements
All teaching, learning materials and assessments are delivered in English. Applicants must demonstrate sufficient English-language proficiency to understand academic and professional materials, participate in learning activities and communicate effectively in assessments.
Applicants whose first language is not English should normally demonstrate proficiency equivalent to IELTS Academic 5.5 overall, with no individual component below 5.0, or an equivalent recognised standard.
Formal language testing may not be required where applicants have previously studied or worked in an English-speaking environment, or can otherwise demonstrate appropriate proficiency.
Britannia College considers reasonable adjustments and accessible assessment arrangements in accordance with its Inclusive by Design approach, without reducing the academic standards or learning outcomes of the qualification.
Applicants whose first language is not English should normally demonstrate proficiency equivalent to IELTS Academic 5.5 overall, with no individual component below 5.0, or an equivalent recognised standard.
Formal language testing may not be required where applicants have previously studied or worked in an English-speaking environment, or can otherwise demonstrate appropriate proficiency.
Britannia College considers reasonable adjustments and accessible assessment arrangements in accordance with its Inclusive by Design approach, without reducing the academic standards or learning outcomes of the qualification.
Recognition of prior learning
Britannia College recognises that relevant knowledge and professional competence may be acquired through formal education, workplace training, professional development and practical experience.
Applicants may request Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) where previous qualifications, training or demonstrable professional experience correspond to the learning outcomes of the programme.
Relevant prior learning may include security management qualifications, counter terrorism awareness and preparedness training, policing or military education, emergency management training and other recognised professional development.
Applications are considered individually and may require certificates, training records, professional portfolios, reflective accounts or other appropriate evidence.
Recognition is subject to academic evaluation, the currency and relevance of the evidence presented, and Britannia College's applicable RPL policies. Prior learning does not automatically guarantee exemption from individual units or assessment requirements.
Applicants may request Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) where previous qualifications, training or demonstrable professional experience correspond to the learning outcomes of the programme.
Relevant prior learning may include security management qualifications, counter terrorism awareness and preparedness training, policing or military education, emergency management training and other recognised professional development.
Applications are considered individually and may require certificates, training records, professional portfolios, reflective accounts or other appropriate evidence.
Recognition is subject to academic evaluation, the currency and relevance of the evidence presented, and Britannia College's applicable RPL policies. Prior learning does not automatically guarantee exemption from individual units or assessment requirements.
Units and modules
CPS4C01U1Terrorism, Extremism and International Security8.0 credits
This unit introduces learners to the study of terrorism, extremism and contemporary international security threats. It examines the historical development of terrorism, ideological motivations, radicalisation, terrorist organisations and the evolving nature of political violence.
Learners will explore international counter terrorism strategies, the roles of government and security organisations, and the relationship between public protection, human rights and professional security practice. Through contemporary case studies, learners will develop the ability to critically examine terrorist threats and their implications for public safety across different national and international environments.
Learners will explore international counter terrorism strategies, the roles of government and security organisations, and the relationship between public protection, human rights and professional security practice. Through contemporary case studies, learners will develop the ability to critically examine terrorist threats and their implications for public safety across different national and international environments.
Unit assessment
Learners act as junior security analysts preparing a briefing for an organisation operating internationally. They examine a fictional or historical terrorist threat, assess credible evidence, distinguish established facts from assumptions and explain the implications for public protection.
Submission: A written intelligence briefing, narrated presentation or recorded professional briefing, supported by references and an evidence log.
Submission: A written intelligence briefing, narrated presentation or recorded professional briefing, supported by references and an evidence log.
Understanding Terrorism and Political Violence
Introduces the concepts, definitions and characteristics of terrorism and political violence. Students examine how terrorism differs from other forms of violence, the challenges of defining terrorism across legal and political contexts, and its implications for national and international security.
Historical and Contemporary Terrorist Threats
Examines the historical development of terrorism and the evolution of contemporary terrorist threats. Students explore ideological movements, changes in organisational structures, international influences and the ways terrorist activity has adapted to political, social and technological developments.
Extremism, Radicalisation and Terrorist Motivations
Explores the processes and influences associated with extremism, radicalisation and terrorist involvement. Students consider ideological, psychological, social and environmental factors, recognising the complexity of individual pathways and the limitations of simplistic explanations.
International Counter Terrorism Strategies and Human Rights
Examines national and international approaches to counter terrorism, including prevention, disruption, cooperation and public protection. Students consider the relationship between security measures, human rights, proportionality, democratic accountability and the rule of law.
CPS4C01U2Counter Terrorism Intelligence and Threat Assessment8.0 credits
This unit develops learners' understanding of intelligence, threat identification and risk assessment within counter terrorism and protective security environments. It examines intelligence collection and evaluation, terrorist threat indicators, hostile reconnaissance, vulnerabilities and the relationship between threats, risks and protective security decisions.
Learners will apply structured analytical techniques to realistic scenarios, assess the credibility and significance of available information, and develop proportionate risk assessments. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based professional judgement, ethical information handling and the practical application of intelligence principles to organisational security.
Learners will apply structured analytical techniques to realistic scenarios, assess the credibility and significance of available information, and develop proportionate risk assessments. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based professional judgement, ethical information handling and the practical application of intelligence principles to organisational security.
Unit assessment
Learners receive a fictional venue scenario, including floor plans, operating information, staffing arrangements and relevant threat information. They identify vulnerabilities, assess risks using a recognised methodology, document uncertainties and propose proportionate risk treatments.
Submission: A completed risk assessment, risk register and supporting analytical commentary.
Submission: A completed risk assessment, risk register and supporting analytical commentary.
Intelligence Principles and the Counter Terrorism Environment
Introduces intelligence principles, the intelligence cycle and the role of information in counter terrorism decision-making. Students examine intelligence collection, evaluation, analysis and dissemination, alongside the legal, ethical and operational limitations of intelligence activity.
Terrorist Attack Methodologies and Threat Indicators
Examines common categories of terrorist attack and their implications for protective security planning. Students consider publicly documented threat characteristics, behavioural indicators and the importance of understanding potential consequences without relying on assumptions or discriminatory profiling.
Hostile Reconnaissance and Suspicious Activity
Explores hostile reconnaissance as a consideration within protective security and counter terrorism awareness. Students examine how suspicious activity may be identified, contextualised, recorded and reported, while distinguishing credible indicators from legitimate public behaviour.
Threat Identification and Intelligence Evaluation
Develops an understanding of identifying, evaluating and interpreting potential security threats. Students examine source reliability, information credibility, analytical uncertainty, cognitive bias and the use of structured reasoning to support proportionate security decisions.
Vulnerability Assessment and Risk Analysis
Introduces methods for identifying vulnerabilities and evaluating security risks across organisations, facilities and publicly accessible locations. Students examine the relationships between threats, vulnerabilities, likelihood, consequences and existing protective measures.
Developing a Counter Terrorism Risk Assessment
Explores the practical development of a structured counter terrorism risk assessment. Students examine how threat information, site characteristics, vulnerabilities and potential consequences can inform risk evaluation, treatment priorities and documented security recommendations.
CPS4C01U3Protective Security and Public Safety Management8.0 credits
This unit examines the principles, systems and professional practices used to protect people, premises and organisations from terrorism and other deliberate security threats. Learners will explore physical security, access control, personnel security, organisational security culture, publicly accessible locations and the application of layered protective security measures.
Through applied case studies, learners will evaluate vulnerabilities, select proportionate protective measures and develop practical security recommendations. The unit emphasises accessibility, operational effectiveness, public safety and the integration of protective security within wider organisational management.
Through applied case studies, learners will evaluate vulnerabilities, select proportionate protective measures and develop practical security recommendations. The unit emphasises accessibility, operational effectiveness, public safety and the integration of protective security within wider organisational management.
Unit assessment
Learners develop a protective security plan for a publicly accessible location, such as a hotel, transport interchange, shopping centre, entertainment venue or educational establishment. The plan must consider people, premises, security culture, accessibility, available resources and proportionate protective measures.
Submission: A professional security management plan, with supporting diagrams and a management summary.
Submission: A professional security management plan, with supporting diagrams and a management summary.
Foundations of Protective Security
Introduces the principles, objectives and professional responsibilities of protective security. Students examine how physical, personnel, procedural and technological measures contribute to safeguarding people, assets and operations against deliberate threats.
Physical Security and Defence in Depth
Examines layered physical security and the principle of defence in depth. Students consider perimeter protection, building security, detection, delay, response and the integration of protective measures to reduce vulnerabilities.
Personnel Security and Organisational Security Culture
Explores the contribution of personnel security, organisational behaviour and security culture to protective security effectiveness. Students examine suitability, awareness, reporting responsibilities, insider risks and the importance of proportionate and lawful security practices.
Protective Security for Publicly Accessible Locations
Examines the challenges of protecting locations accessible to members of the public. Students consider differences in occupancy, accessibility, operational activity and vulnerability, alongside the need to balance public safety with reasonable access and normal business operations.
Access Control, Surveillance and Security Technologies
Introduces access management, surveillance and electronic security systems within protective security environments. Students examine their capabilities, limitations, integration, information governance and suitability for different operational settings.
Proportionate Protective Security Measures
Explores how protective security measures are selected and justified according to assessed risk. Students consider practicality, cost, accessibility, operational impact, human factors and the importance of avoiding unnecessarily restrictive or ineffective controls.
Developing and Evaluating Protective Security Plans
Examines the development, documentation and review of integrated protective security plans. Students consider risk assessment findings, organisational responsibilities, protective measures, implementation priorities and methods for evaluating effectiveness.
CPS4C01U4Counter Terrorism Preparedness and Incident Response8.0 credits
This unit develops the knowledge and practical skills required to prepare organisations for potential terrorist incidents and other serious security emergencies. It examines emergency planning, protective actions, evacuation, invacuation, lockdown, incident communications, coordination with emergency services and organisational resilience.
Learners will develop and evaluate preparedness procedures using realistic scenarios, including consideration of vulnerable persons, accessibility, staff responsibilities and public communication. The unit also examines exercises, testing, business continuity, recovery and the importance of continuous improvement in organisational preparedness.
Learners will develop and evaluate preparedness procedures using realistic scenarios, including consideration of vulnerable persons, accessibility, staff responsibilities and public communication. The unit also examines exercises, testing, business continuity, recovery and the importance of continuous improvement in organisational preparedness.
Unit assessment
Learners participate in an online tabletop exercise involving a simulated security incident. They must select appropriate protective actions, establish communication arrangements, account for people requiring assistance and evaluate organisational preparedness.
Submission: An emergency response plan, exercise decision log and after-action review.
Submission: An emergency response plan, exercise decision log and after-action review.
Principles of Counter Terrorism Preparedness
Introduces organisational preparedness for terrorist incidents and other deliberate threats. Students examine emergency planning, threat awareness, preparedness responsibilities, contingency arrangements and the importance of coordination between organisations and emergency services.
Emergency Procedures and Protective Actions
Examines the development and implementation of emergency procedures intended to protect people during security incidents. Students consider incident reporting, warning systems, immediate protective actions, staff responsibilities and the need for clear, accessible emergency instructions.
Evacuation, Invacuation and Lockdown
Explores evacuation, invacuation and lockdown as protective responses to different emergency circumstances. Students examine decision-making, accessibility, communication, movement management and the importance of selecting actions appropriate to the nature and location of a threat.
Incident Command, Coordination and Communication
Introduces organisational incident management, command responsibilities and communication arrangements. Students examine coordination with emergency responders, internal escalation, information management and the challenges of making proportionate decisions during rapidly developing incidents.
Business Continuity and Organisational Resilience
Examines the relationship between emergency preparedness, business continuity and organisational resilience. Students consider critical activities, disruption management, recovery priorities and arrangements for maintaining or restoring essential operations following a serious incident.
Testing, Exercising and Evaluating Preparedness
Explores how emergency arrangements can be tested and improved through exercises, scenario discussions and structured evaluation. Students consider exercise objectives, performance observations, lessons identified and the development of proportionate improvement plans.
CPS4C01U5Protective Security Governance, Regulation and Professional Practice8.0 credits
This unit develops the knowledge and professional understanding required to manage protective security and public protection responsibilities within organisations. It examines security governance, organisational accountability, legal and regulatory frameworks, professional standards, ethical decision-making and the implementation of proportionate public protection procedures and measures.
Learners will examine how organisations establish, document and evaluate arrangements for protecting people from terrorism and deliberate acts of violence. The unit considers international differences in legal requirements, the responsibilities of organisational leadership, accessibility, public safety, professional judgement and the importance of continuous improvement in protective security governance.
Learners will examine how organisations establish, document and evaluate arrangements for protecting people from terrorism and deliberate acts of violence. The unit considers international differences in legal requirements, the responsibilities of organisational leadership, accessibility, public safety, professional judgement and the importance of continuous improvement in protective security governance.
Unit assessment
Learners develop a public protection and security governance plan for a simulated publicly accessible organisation. They must establish organisational responsibilities, propose proportionate protective procedures and measures, consider relevant legal and ethical obligations, and demonstrate how public protection arrangements will be monitored and reviewed.
Submission: A public protection and security governance plan, supporting procedural documentation and a professional justification report.
Submission: A public protection and security governance plan, supporting procedural documentation and a professional justification report.
Protective Security Governance and Organisational Accountability
Examines governance arrangements supporting effective protective security management. Students consider leadership responsibilities, organisational policies, accountability, risk ownership and the integration of security considerations into wider management and decision-making structures.
Counter Terrorism Legislation and Regulatory Responsibilities
Introduces the UK legal and regulatory environment relevant to counter terrorism and protective security. Students examine statutory responsibilities, organisational obligations, regulatory expectations and the importance of lawful, documented and proportionate security arrangements.
Public Protection Duties and Organisational Responsibilities
Examines the responsibilities of organisations to protect individuals from terrorist threats and other deliberate acts of violence. Students explore proportionate public protection procedures, preventive security measures, organisational accountability, preparedness, and the evaluation of protective arrangements. Emphasis is placed on internationally applicable principles of public safety, risk reduction and evidence-based protective security decision-making.
Professional Standards, Ethics and Security Decision-Making
Explores professional conduct, ethical judgement and accountability in protective security practice. Students consider confidentiality, equality, human rights, professional competence, evidence-based decision-making and the importance of maintaining public confidence.
Security Assurance, Continuous Improvement and Professional Practice
Examines methods for evaluating protective security arrangements and maintaining professional standards. Students consider assurance activities, governance reviews, performance monitoring, lessons identified and the continuous improvement of organisational security capabilities.
Teaching and learning
The qualification is delivered entirely online over 24 teaching weeks, equivalent to approximately six months of part-time study.
Learners undertake two hours of guided teaching each week, supported by approximately ten hours of independent learning. Guided teaching includes structured digital learning materials, tutor-led activities, recorded lectures, case study discussions and applied professional exercises.
The programme comprises five units covering terrorism and international security, intelligence and threat assessment, protective security management, incident preparedness and professional governance.
Learning activities are designed to connect academic knowledge with professional practice. Learners engage with realistic security scenarios, structured analytical exercises, risk assessment tools, incident simulations and organisational case studies.
International examples are incorporated throughout the curriculum. Learners are encouraged to examine the application of protective security principles within their own national and professional contexts.
Britannia College's Inclusive by Design approach provides accessible learning materials, flexible participation arrangements and varied opportunities to demonstrate knowledge and professional competence.
Independent learning includes directed reading, research, scenario analysis, reflective activities and preparation for assessment.
The programme requires 48 guided teaching hours, 240 independent learning hours and 80 assessment hours, providing 368 planned learning hours.
Learners undertake two hours of guided teaching each week, supported by approximately ten hours of independent learning. Guided teaching includes structured digital learning materials, tutor-led activities, recorded lectures, case study discussions and applied professional exercises.
The programme comprises five units covering terrorism and international security, intelligence and threat assessment, protective security management, incident preparedness and professional governance.
Learning activities are designed to connect academic knowledge with professional practice. Learners engage with realistic security scenarios, structured analytical exercises, risk assessment tools, incident simulations and organisational case studies.
International examples are incorporated throughout the curriculum. Learners are encouraged to examine the application of protective security principles within their own national and professional contexts.
Britannia College's Inclusive by Design approach provides accessible learning materials, flexible participation arrangements and varied opportunities to demonstrate knowledge and professional competence.
Independent learning includes directed reading, research, scenario analysis, reflective activities and preparation for assessment.
The programme requires 48 guided teaching hours, 240 independent learning hours and 80 assessment hours, providing 368 planned learning hours.
Assessment model
The qualification adopts Britannia College's Inclusive by Design assessment framework, emphasising authentic professional practice, applied knowledge and evidence-based decision-making.
Assessment is undertaken through five compulsory, unit-based assessments that progressively develop the learner's professional competence in counter terrorism and protective security.
Learners complete a threat intelligence briefing, counter terrorism risk assessment, protective security management plan, emergency preparedness exercise and integrated professional recommendations portfolio.
Assessments are designed around realistic organisational scenarios and may incorporate written reports, structured templates, recorded presentations, professional briefings, diagrams and other appropriate evidence formats.
Alternative submission formats may be agreed where they demonstrate equivalent learning outcomes and assessment standards.
All assessments are completed remotely. Learners are not required to access operationally sensitive information, conduct physical security inspections or attend a particular location.
The total planned assessment workload is 80 hours. Assessment decisions are based on the quality of analysis, accuracy, professional judgement, practical application and achievement of the prescribed learning outcomes.
Assessment is undertaken through five compulsory, unit-based assessments that progressively develop the learner's professional competence in counter terrorism and protective security.
Learners complete a threat intelligence briefing, counter terrorism risk assessment, protective security management plan, emergency preparedness exercise and integrated professional recommendations portfolio.
Assessments are designed around realistic organisational scenarios and may incorporate written reports, structured templates, recorded presentations, professional briefings, diagrams and other appropriate evidence formats.
Alternative submission formats may be agreed where they demonstrate equivalent learning outcomes and assessment standards.
All assessments are completed remotely. Learners are not required to access operationally sensitive information, conduct physical security inspections or attend a particular location.
The total planned assessment workload is 80 hours. Assessment decisions are based on the quality of analysis, accuracy, professional judgement, practical application and achievement of the prescribed learning outcomes.
Assessment
Assessment is continuous and applied, with one principal assessment attached to each of the five compulsory units.
Unit 1: Threat Intelligence Briefing (10 hours). Learners analyse a contemporary or historical terrorism-related threat and prepare an evidence-based professional briefing examining its implications for security and public protection.
Unit 2: Counter Terrorism Risk Assessment (16 hours). Learners complete a structured threat and vulnerability assessment, supported by a risk register, evaluation of available information and proportionate risk treatment recommendations.
Unit 3: Protective Security Management Plan (18 hours). Learners develop a protective security plan for a realistic organisational setting, addressing physical security, personnel security, organisational culture, accessibility and public protection.
Unit 4: Emergency Preparedness Exercise (14 hours). Learners complete a simulated incident response exercise and produce an emergency preparedness plan, decision record and after-action evaluation.
Unit 5: Professional Recommendations Portfolio (22 hours). Learners undertake an integrated protective security review and produce a professional recommendations report supported by risk assessments, preparedness arrangements, implementation priorities and relevant regulatory considerations.
Assessment methods may include written submissions, professional templates, recorded briefings and equivalent accessible formats, provided all prescribed assessment criteria are satisfied.
Learners are assessed on analytical quality, evidence, technical accuracy, professional judgement, ethical practice and the practical effectiveness of their recommendations.
All five units must be successfully completed to achieve the qualification.
Unit 1: Threat Intelligence Briefing (10 hours). Learners analyse a contemporary or historical terrorism-related threat and prepare an evidence-based professional briefing examining its implications for security and public protection.
Unit 2: Counter Terrorism Risk Assessment (16 hours). Learners complete a structured threat and vulnerability assessment, supported by a risk register, evaluation of available information and proportionate risk treatment recommendations.
Unit 3: Protective Security Management Plan (18 hours). Learners develop a protective security plan for a realistic organisational setting, addressing physical security, personnel security, organisational culture, accessibility and public protection.
Unit 4: Emergency Preparedness Exercise (14 hours). Learners complete a simulated incident response exercise and produce an emergency preparedness plan, decision record and after-action evaluation.
Unit 5: Professional Recommendations Portfolio (22 hours). Learners undertake an integrated protective security review and produce a professional recommendations report supported by risk assessments, preparedness arrangements, implementation priorities and relevant regulatory considerations.
Assessment methods may include written submissions, professional templates, recorded briefings and equivalent accessible formats, provided all prescribed assessment criteria are satisfied.
Learners are assessed on analytical quality, evidence, technical accuracy, professional judgement, ethical practice and the practical effectiveness of their recommendations.
All five units must be successfully completed to achieve the qualification.
Learning outcomes
Upon successful completion of the qualification, learners will be able to:
1. Critically examine the historical development, contemporary characteristics and international dimensions of terrorism, extremism and politically motivated violence.
2. Analyse terrorist threats and relevant intelligence using appropriate analytical principles, recognising information limitations, uncertainty and ethical responsibilities.
3. Identify and evaluate security vulnerabilities and undertake structured counter terrorism risk assessments within realistic organisational environments.
4. Evaluate protective security principles and recommend proportionate measures for the protection of people, premises and publicly accessible locations.
5. Examine organisational security culture, personnel security and management responsibilities in establishing effective protective security arrangements.
6. Develop and evaluate counter terrorism preparedness procedures, including emergency communications, evacuation, invacuation, lockdown and incident coordination.
7. Assess organisational resilience, emergency exercises, recovery arrangements and continuous improvement in security preparedness.
8. Compare relevant international legal, regulatory and professional frameworks, including the application of the United Kingdom's Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025.
9. Produce professional protective security recommendations supported by credible evidence, appropriate risk assessment and consideration of organisational resources.
10. Integrate theoretical knowledge and practical security principles into an applied professional portfolio demonstrating independent judgement, ethical awareness and Level 4 analytical competence.
1. Critically examine the historical development, contemporary characteristics and international dimensions of terrorism, extremism and politically motivated violence.
2. Analyse terrorist threats and relevant intelligence using appropriate analytical principles, recognising information limitations, uncertainty and ethical responsibilities.
3. Identify and evaluate security vulnerabilities and undertake structured counter terrorism risk assessments within realistic organisational environments.
4. Evaluate protective security principles and recommend proportionate measures for the protection of people, premises and publicly accessible locations.
5. Examine organisational security culture, personnel security and management responsibilities in establishing effective protective security arrangements.
6. Develop and evaluate counter terrorism preparedness procedures, including emergency communications, evacuation, invacuation, lockdown and incident coordination.
7. Assess organisational resilience, emergency exercises, recovery arrangements and continuous improvement in security preparedness.
8. Compare relevant international legal, regulatory and professional frameworks, including the application of the United Kingdom's Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025.
9. Produce professional protective security recommendations supported by credible evidence, appropriate risk assessment and consideration of organisational resources.
10. Integrate theoretical knowledge and practical security principles into an applied professional portfolio demonstrating independent judgement, ethical awareness and Level 4 analytical competence.
Tuition fees and payment
£360.00
Current published tuition fee.
Next enrolment fee (from 1 February 2027): £895.00
Monthly payment plans may be available during the application process, subject to the course duration and the maximum number of instalments configured for this course.
Careers
The qualification supports professional development and career progression across counter terrorism preparedness, protective security, security management and public safety.
Relevant occupational areas include protective security, corporate security, venue and event security, security risk assessment, public protection, emergency preparedness, organisational resilience and security consultancy.
The programme may be particularly relevant to security officers progressing into supervisory or management responsibilities, venue and facilities managers, public safety practitioners, emergency planning personnel and professionals with responsibility for organisational security arrangements.
Learners develop transferable professional capabilities, including threat evaluation, risk assessment, security planning, incident preparedness, professional reporting and evidence-based decision-making.
The qualification provides relevant knowledge and applied skills but does not independently confer professional licensing, specialist accreditation or eligibility for occupations subject to additional statutory or employer requirements.
Relevant occupational areas include protective security, corporate security, venue and event security, security risk assessment, public protection, emergency preparedness, organisational resilience and security consultancy.
The programme may be particularly relevant to security officers progressing into supervisory or management responsibilities, venue and facilities managers, public safety practitioners, emergency planning personnel and professionals with responsibility for organisational security arrangements.
Learners develop transferable professional capabilities, including threat evaluation, risk assessment, security planning, incident preparedness, professional reporting and evidence-based decision-making.
The qualification provides relevant knowledge and applied skills but does not independently confer professional licensing, specialist accreditation or eligibility for occupations subject to additional statutory or employer requirements.
Progression routes
Successful completion of the Level 4 Certificate in Counter Terrorism and Protective Security Studies provides a foundation for further academic study, professional development and career advancement within the security and public protection sectors.
Graduates may progress towards Level 5 qualifications in security management, protective security, counter terrorism, intelligence, risk management or emergency management, with opportunities for further study at Level 6 and beyond.
The qualification develops professional competencies in threat assessment, protective security planning, counter terrorism preparedness, organisational resilience and security governance. These capabilities are relevant across public, private and international security environments.
Graduates will have developed a portfolio of applied professional work demonstrating their ability to assess security threats, evaluate organisational vulnerabilities, develop proportionate protective measures and communicate evidence-based security recommendations.
The programme also provides a foundation for specialist professional development, leadership responsibilities and further academic study in counter terrorism and protective security.
Graduates may progress towards Level 5 qualifications in security management, protective security, counter terrorism, intelligence, risk management or emergency management, with opportunities for further study at Level 6 and beyond.
The qualification develops professional competencies in threat assessment, protective security planning, counter terrorism preparedness, organisational resilience and security governance. These capabilities are relevant across public, private and international security environments.
Graduates will have developed a portfolio of applied professional work demonstrating their ability to assess security threats, evaluate organisational vulnerabilities, develop proportionate protective measures and communicate evidence-based security recommendations.
The programme also provides a foundation for specialist professional development, leadership responsibilities and further academic study in counter terrorism and protective security.