Rigorous programmes for security professionals and military leaders, drawing on Dr Nick Pay’s experience lecturing at the Royal Military College Shrivenham and the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, and his research on war, conflict, and security policy.
Strategic Security in the 21st Century
5 days | Intensive
The evolving nature of security threats: from state-on-state conflict to cyber warfare, terrorism, hybrid threats, and non-state actors. Examines national security strategy, threat assessment, intelligence analysis, and the challenge of maintaining security in an interconnected, technologically disrupted world.
For: Military Commanders, National Security Advisors, Intelligence Directors
Cyber Security and Information Warfare
3 days | Intensive
The growing threat landscape in cyberspace: state-sponsored cyber operations, critical infrastructure protection, disinformation campaigns, and the weaponisation of social media. Covers defensive strategies, international cyber norms, and the intersection of cybersecurity with national defence policy.
For: Cyber Security Directors, Military Intelligence, IT Security Leaders
Counter-Terrorism and Insurgency
3–5 days | Intensive
Understanding the roots, dynamics, and responses to terrorism and insurgency. Covers radicalisation, ideology, recruitment, financing, and the effectiveness of military, intelligence, and political responses. Case studies from the Middle East, Africa, South Asia, and Europe.
For: Counter-Terrorism Officials, Military Planners, Interior Ministry Leaders
Civil-Military Relations and Defence Governance
2–3 days | Seminar
The relationship between military institutions and civilian governance: democratic oversight, defence reform, military professionalisation, and the challenges of managing armed forces in transitional and developing states. Includes comparative analysis across Middle Eastern, European, and African contexts.
For: Defence Ministers, Senior Military Officers, Parliamentary Defence Committees
The Law of Armed Conflict and International Humanitarian Law
2–3 days | Intensive
The legal frameworks governing the use of force: jus ad bellum, jus in bello, the Geneva Conventions, rules of engagement, and the legal implications of new technologies in warfare (drones, autonomous weapons, cyber operations). Essential knowledge for commanders and legal advisors.
For: Military Commanders, Military Legal Advisors, Defence Policy-Makers
Intelligence Analysis for Decision-Makers
3 days | Workshop
How intelligence is gathered, analysed, and used in policy and military decision-making. Covers analytical techniques, cognitive biases, structured analytic methods, open-source intelligence (OSINT), and the relationship between intelligence agencies and political leadership.
For: Intelligence Analysts, Military Commanders, National Security Advisors
Delivery
How We Work With You
Bespoke Design
Every programme is tailored to the specific needs, context, and strategic priorities of the commissioning organisation. We work closely with your leadership to design content, case studies, and learning outcomes that address your real challenges.
Flexible Delivery
Programmes can be delivered on-site at your institution, at a neutral venue, or at the University of Oxford. Delivery formats include intensive residential courses, modular programmes over several weeks, and blended in-person/online models.
Expert Faculty
Dr Nick Pay draws on his network of Oxford scholars, diplomats, military experts, and policy practitioners to assemble the right teaching team for each programme. All faculty are active practitioners or researchers in their fields.
Languages of Delivery
Programmes can be delivered in English, French, Italian, or Persian, with interpretation available for Arabic. This multilingual capability ensures effective engagement with diverse audiences across the Middle East and beyond.
Get in Touch
To discuss a bespoke programme for your organisation, please contact:
Dr Vahid Nick Pay
Email: nickpay@oaig.net
Tel: +44 7873 902005
Web: www.oaig.net