This course provides an interdisciplinary approach to the study of political violence and terrorism. It covers the psychological and sociological roots of terrorism, the organizational patterns of cells, groups and networks, and the role of ideology and identity in shaping goals, targets, and tactics. No credit for students who have previously taken PS 505, or PS 651 Special Topics: Political Violence and Terrorism.

Students will learn how environmental issues may give rise to socio-political instability around the world which can become threats to US national/homeland security. This course will explore how U.S. domestic and foreign policy, and ultimately, U.S. national security, can be impacted by emergent threats to nations from environmental health issues, climate change, deforestation, infrastructure vulnerabilities, and natural resource shortages caused by rapid industrialization, population growth, and urbanization in less developed countries. In a seminar format, students and faculty will cover a variety of readings and discuss their conclusions and students will have the opportunity to lead class discussions on assigned readings.

The study abroad component of its prerequisite course, HLS 555. Students go on a 3-week managed study abroad program designed and led by UNH faculty. Prereq: HLS 555 or consent instructor.

Students work under the direction of a faculty thesis advisor to plan and carry out independent research resulting in an oral presentation and a major research paper. Research projects should include the development of a research thesis/question, a literature review, analysis, and synthesis of relevant data/sources, discussion and interpretation and presentation of results. Senior Thesis can be used to substitute for Internship in HLS. Permission by HLS program coordinator required, open only to HLS seniors. Prereq: HLS 510 and HLS 515 and HLS 650 and HLS 760.