Nichols launches counterterrorism grad degree

PhotoLorraine Martinelle Nichols College has a new degree in counterterrorism.

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Nichols College in Dudley has launched a master's degree in counterterrorism as a way to help the U.S. Department of Homeland Security offset violent extremism.

The 30-credit degree will combine in-class and online learning and prepare students to work in the fields of intelligence, public policy and security. The program’s faculty includes counterterrorism expert and assistant professor of criminal justice Allison McDowell-Smith, a senior research fellow for the International Center for the Study of Violent Extremism who has trained Belgian police on de-radicalization processes.

Violent extremism presents a distinct threat to counterterrorism efforts because it involves the cooperation of several agencies, including military, law enforcement, intelligence and social media advocates, said McDowell-Smith.

“It is necessary to understand the radicalization process, ideologies, security measures, and the role of social media in the formation and implementation of violent extremism within our current society,” she said. “By understanding violent extremism, counter violent extremism strategies can be examined and implemented to effectively combat terrorism in our society and the threats of terrorism-related events.”

Students in the program will take courses on homegrown violent extremism, international violent extremism, cybersecurity, border security, and the media’s impact on violent extremism. Theoretical explorations of violent extremism will be explored, as well as legal and policy contexts to organizational dynamics and contemporary practices that advance ways to confront violent extremism. Students will be able to take the course either in person or online via conferencing technology.