Revised 08/2018
ADJ 234 - Terrorism and Counter-terrorism (3 CR.)
Course Description
Surveys the historical and current practices of terrorism that are national, transnational, or domestic in origin. Includes biological, chemical, nuclear, and cyber-terrorism. Teaches the identification and classification of terrorist organizations, violent political groups and issue-oriented militant movements. Examines investigative methods and procedures utilized in counter-terrorist efforts domestically and internationally. Lecture 3 hours per week.
General Course Purpose
The purpose of this course is to provide the student with an understanding of the cause, methods, types, and consequences of terrorist activity around the world.
Course Prerequisites/Corequisites
None.
Course Objectives
Upon completion the course, the student will be able to:
- relate the history of terrorism to modern forms of terrorism.
- understand terrorist motivations, goals, and objectives. describe issues regarding effective counterterrorism measures.
- explore physical and technological targets of terrorist groups.
- analyze various terrorist organizations around the world.
Major Topics to Be Included
- explore different definitions of terrorism
- discuss the goals of different terrorist organizations
- define weapons of mass destruction
- discuss the structure, leaders, attacks, and characteristics of various terrorist groups
- review the history of terrorism
- discuss counterterrorism concepts
- discuss the historical and modern role of state-sponsored terrorism throughout the world
- discuss how genocide is related to modern terrorism
- explain specific geopolitical conflicts and the relation to modern terrorism
- explore the different types and threats of terrorist activity including biological, chemical, nuclear, and even cyberterrorism Optional Topics Related topics at the discretion of the instructor.
Optional Topics
Related topics at the discretion of the instructor.