Homeland Security Studies at the Israeli Ariel University

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Ariel University is the only academic institute in Israel which offers HLS studies. Students in the criminology department can choose an undergraduate degree which includes criminology, political science and Israel in the Middle East.

Homeland security is one of the most pressing issues worldwide. It’s a sensitive and important issue for any country, which started to receive more and more attention after 9/11.

During their studies students will focus on Israel, defense and terror, issues which are unfortunately linked firmly together. Studies focus, among other things, on the special personalities of terrorists: These are not “normal” criminals; they are people that hurt others in order to promote a particular ideology.

IHLS – Israel Homeland Security

In addition, the motives of terrorists are discussed, how people can be driven to terror voluntarily and under the belief that it’s the right thing to do. The students will discuss ways to predict and locate terrorists before they act.

Professor Sarah Ben-David, head of Ariel University Criminology Department, explained: “Our main goals will be to address the current social needs and issues in Israel, as they relate to criminology and victimology. In addition, we aim to develop new theoretical disciplines, and to establish the Ariel University Criminology Department as an Israeli leader in the field – with respect to theory, innovation and student conditions.”