100% Online
100% Online
Learning Mode
Undergraduate
Qualification
3 years full-time
Duration
Mar, Jul, Nov
Start Dates
24
Units
$2,174*
Fees Per Unit
The Bachelor of Social Science with a major in Security and Counter Terrorism is a three-year full-time or part-time equivalent, 100% online undergraduate degree from Swinburne Online that prepares you for careers in intelligence, security advisory and counter terrorism.
You’ll explore how security works in today’s challenging global environment – from cyber threats and modern warfare to radicalisation, violent extremism and the politics that shape it all. You’ll learn to analyse complex conflicts, resolve disputes, and write clear reports on some of the toughest issues facing communities today, giving you the skills to contribute to strategic and operational national security.
Who is this course for?
If you’re interested in defence, intelligence, policy or protective security, this course is for you. Whether you’re starting out or looking to deepen your expertise, you’ll build specialist knowledge while tailoring your studies through a wide range of electives.
How you’ll study
This course is not available to international students.
‘The support level has been unmatched. OLAs, student advisors, anyone you contact is always there for you. There is always someone to reach out to, always someone to help, always someone you can lean on.’
Corey, Swinburne Online graduate
Our Social Sciences courses have received a five-star rating for learner engagement and teaching quality, both first nationally, by Good Universities Guide 2026.
Our Social Sciences courses have ranked in the Top 300 by the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2026.
Our Social Sciences courses have ranked in the Top 300 by the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2026.
To be awarded the Bachelor of Social Science with a major in Security and Counter Terrorism you must complete 24 units in total made up of:
Each year is split into three Teaching Periods. You can choose to study full-time or part-time depending on your preference.
You must complete the following units:
You must complete one (1) of the following units:
Complete twelve (12) electives to round out your degree. Tailor your course to suit your strengths, interests, and career goals by choosing elective units. View our list of available Electives.
Here’s what our Swinburne Online academic staff recommend for the Security and Counter Terrorism major:
Applicants are required to meet one of the following minimum entry requirements:
Want to discuss your eligibility for the Bachelor of Social Science with a major in Security and Counter Terrorism? Get in touch with our Course Consultant team on 1300 069 765 to discuss more today!
If you have completed recent prior studies you may be eligible to request course credit or subject exemptions to reduce the duration and cost of your program.
Credit for prior learning evaluates your previous studies related to your chosen subjects.
This is assessed on a case-by-case basis, where every applicant is assessed individually.
To learn more and explore your potential credit for prior learning, get in touch with our Course Consultant team on 1300 069 765 to discuss your options!
We have plenty of resources to help you! Visit our Applying and Enrolling FAQs or chat with a Course Consultant for advice on your specific situation.
Applicants are required to meet one of the following minimum entry requirements:
Want to discuss your eligibility for the Bachelor of Social Science with a major in Security and Counter Terrorism? Get in touch with our Course Consultant team on 1300 069 765 to discuss more today!
If you have completed recent prior studies you may be eligible to request course credit or subject exemptions to reduce the duration and cost of your program.
Credit for prior learning evaluates your previous studies related to your chosen subjects.
This is assessed on a case-by-case basis, where every applicant is assessed individually.
To learn more and explore your potential credit for prior learning, get in touch with our Course Consultant team on 1300 069 765 to discuss your options!
We have plenty of resources to help you! Visit our Applying and Enrolling FAQs or chat with a Course Consultant for advice on your specific situation.
*Note: Unit fees may change each year.
There are several ways to help manage your course fees:
Please contact our Course Consultants to find out if you’re eligible for financial support.
There are a variety of Swinburne Scholarships to help reduce your costs.
Scholarships are available for both new and current students.
Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Student Scholarships
There are a range of scholarships available to support Indigenous students in minimising the costs of study materials, accommodation, relocation and more.
How it works:
1. Check eligibility
2. Gather the relevant documentation
3. Produce a personal statement
4. Obtain your references
5. Apply online here
Please contact our Course Consultants to find out if you’re eligible for Swinburne Scholarships.
Credit for prior study:
Services & amenities fee:
For more details on scholarships and financial support, speak with our Course Consultant team today!
As a graduate of the Bachelor of Social Science – Security and Counter Terrorism, you’ll be equipped for a wide range of purpose-driven roles across Australia's national security ecosystem. Here's what you could do – and what you might earn (average annual salaries via SEEK, 2026):
Gather, analyse and interpret information to support decisions. You'll work across defence, intelligence, and law enforcement to identify threats, assess risks and shape strategy.
Gather, analyse and interpret information to support decisions. You'll work across defence, intelligence, and law enforcement to identify threats, assess risks and shape strategy.
Advise government, organisations and businesses on developing and evaluating policy. You'll analyse complex issues, research solutions, and recommend options to decision-makers.
Advise government, organisations and businesses on developing and evaluating policy. You'll analyse complex issues, research solutions, and recommend options to decision-makers.
Assess and advise on security needs for various clients, including corporations and government agencies. They develop and implement security strategies, conduct risk assessments, and ensure clients are prepared to address potential threats.
Assess and advise on security needs for various clients, including corporations and government agencies. They develop and implement security strategies, conduct risk assessments, and ensure clients are prepared to address potential threats.
Work with local communities to identify needs and priorities, and design programs that support community well-being. Collaborate with organisations, service providers, and government agencies to deliver initiatives, strengthen engagement, and improve access to services.
Work with local communities to identify needs and priorities, and design programs that support community well-being. Collaborate with organisations, service providers, and government agencies to deliver initiatives, strengthen engagement, and improve access to services.
Develop the analytical and practical skills used by professionals working across security, intelligence, and risk-related fields.
Each degree is thoughtfully designed for online learning, ensuring your experience is fulfilling and supported. At Swinburne Online, we want to ensure that your journey with us is a success. Our team of academic and online experts have developed engaging, media-rich course materials using cutting-edge digital technology and advanced teaching resources.
What you’ll use Canvas for:
Think of the Student Hub as your online campus, where you will be able to:
You are supported at every stage of your journey with Swinburne Online.
You’ll have access to:
If you’re an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander student, you can access dedicated support through Swinburne’s Moondani Toombadool Centre. Moondani Toombadool means ‘embracing teaching and learning’ in the Woiwurrung language of the Wurundjeri People!
Support available includes:
Learn more about the Moondani Toombadool Centre.
Download a course guide
The suite of Swinburne Online Business degrees provides students with the opportunity to forge connections within the industry. Students hear from industry leaders and work with real-life clients with demonstrated experience within their respective fields, such as SEEK.
