Theories explaining the formation of terrorist groups and the motivations behind terrorist behavior, building upon theories from social psychology, sociology, political science, criminology, and history. The course examines the different levels of analysis for terrorism studies, the different methods scholars utilize for research, and the most prominent datasets in the field of homeland security. In addition, this course provides a review of various terrorist groups and ideological movements. The course concludes with an introduction to the different approaches to counter violent extremism and terrorism.