University of Leicester

What you'll study

This distance-learning MSc combines core concepts in security and risk with applied modules on organisational practice and policy. You will study theoretical frameworks for understanding risk, methods for assessing and managing threats, and approaches to resilience, continuity and crisis response.

• Core topics: foundations of security and risk management, risk assessment and treatment, security governance and policy, and research methods for applied security.
• Applied topics: intelligence and threat analysis, crisis and disaster management, organisational resilience and business continuity, information security and cyber risk, and countering insider and external threats.
• Research and project work: a substantial independent dissertation or applied project enables you to investigate a workplace problem or produce a practice-focused piece of research under academic supervision.
• Learning and assessment: taught through distance-learning materials, recorded lectures, online seminars and tutor support; assessment is typically by coursework, case studies, policy briefs and the final dissertation/project.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a good honours degree in a related discipline (for example, criminology, law, security studies, computing, business or social sciences) or an equivalent qualification. Candidates with a lower-class degree may be considered if they have relevant professional experience in security, emergency planning, intelligence, policing or another related field.

International applicants will be expected to demonstrate proficiency in English through a recognised qualification at postgraduate level. In addition to academic qualifications, applicants should be able to commit to part-time distance study and have access to a reliable internet connection for online learning activities.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to roles across the public, private and third sectors where security and risk expertise is required. Typical career paths include corporate security manager, risk analyst/manager, emergency planning and resilience officer, intelligence analyst, security consultant, policy adviser and roles in cybersecurity and information risk management.

The programme is also suitable for those seeking to progress within organisations (for example police, emergency services, local and central government, transport and critical infrastructure) or to move into specialist consultancy and advisory roles.

Why study at University of Leicester

Studying this MSc at the University of Leicester gives you access to research-led teaching and tutors with current academic and professional experience in security, risk and resilience. The distance-learning format is designed for working professionals, combining flexibility with structured support, online tutorials and opportunities to apply learning directly to your workplace.

The University offers a supportive postgraduate environment, a well-established virtual learning platform and links across disciplines that allow the programme to draw on insights from social science, law, computing and business. The degree emphasises applied skills and practical outputs to prepare graduates for leadership and specialist roles in security and risk management.