Masters program in policing, intelligence and counter terrorism
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Alan Watson |
If you are considering a career in policing, intelligence or security, the Master of Policing, Intelligence and Counter Terrorism (MPICT) at Macquarie University provides comprehensive instruction in the fields of counter terrorism, surveillance and law enforcement.
The MPICT is also ideal for those working in the areas of homeland security, defence and in government departments who are involved in ensuring the security of Australia and its overseas missions.
"The Centre for Policing, Intelligence and Counter Terrorism (PICT) wants to deliver a program for people who work in these fields as well as those who theorise about it, plan and formulate policy," says Academic Coordinator, Alan Watson. "At PICT we believe that you need a good match of operational and academic people."
Growing in popularity
The MPICT commenced in Semester 2 2006 with a group of 25 people. Numbers swelled to 86 at the beginning of 2007 with the current outlook over 100 students for the start of next semester.
"I believe our numbers show that the program is of interest and is hitting the target market," says Watson. "The beauty of the MPICT program is that it is ever developing to meet the needs of today's environment. We also use a number of adjunct professors and highly qualified associates from the field."
What you will learn
"The program provides you with a great awareness for what is inherent in the world and allows people to theorise, start researching and uncover the truth," explains Watson, who is currently undertaking an MPICT himself. "You get a very balanced view of terrorism and its realities. At the moment you are more likely to be killed by a bee than to be a victim of a terrorist attack."
Core units
The MPICT has four core units: Theories of Political Violence and Terrorism; Terrorism Issues; International Security and the State; and Strategic Policing and Intelligence. Optional units include Cybercrime and Cyberterrorism; Media and Security; and Forensic Science and Security.
Learning modes
All of the Centre's coursework academic programs are available in a range of flexible learning modes. Students can choose to study full-time or part-time via distance education (e-learning) or attend on-campus lectures. Of the current group of MPICT students around 75 per cent study online.
Entry requirements
As many people working in the defence and policing industry do not have tertiary qualifications, there are two modes of entry to the MPICT program. Potential students require either an undergraduate degree or five years' relevant experience within a related industry. Those students without an undergraduate degree are required to start at postgraduate certificate level and work their way through the articulated program.
How to apply
Applications can be made directly to the Centre for Policing, Intelligence and Counter Terrorism. Forms can be downloaded from the Centre's website (see link below).
For academic advice, course fees or an enrolment package contact Academic Coordinator Alan Watson alan.watson@pict.mq.edu.au or visit www.pict.mq.edu.au/