Media, Terrorism and Counter-Terrorism: October 7^th, the Israel-Hamas War and the Globalized world

This course offers an in-depth exploration of the events and repercussions of October 7th, focusing on terrorism, counter-terrorism policies, Israel’s historical and contemporary responses, and the broader international context. Through lectures, discussions, and guest speakers, participants will gain tools for understanding and discussing the complex impact of these events on both national and global levels.

This course aims to provide and discuss key elements in the complex impact of October 7th in Israel and abroad. The 4 weeks course is divided into 4 units which build on and inform one another; it provides tools for individual and collective processing of the events as well as the terminology for conducting educated debates. Our classes will be interactive and consist of a combination of academic input, frontal teaching and group activities, video screening, discussions, field trip and guest speakers.

1. The first unit addresses the basic yet important question of the terrorists themselves: who are they? What is their motivations and goal?
2. The second Unit will focus on Israel’s counter-terrorism policies and practices nationally and internationally since the creation of the State of Israel in 1948.
3. The third Unit will consider Israel’s policy and ethics regarding prisoners of war (POW) and civilian hostages. We will speak about the Jewish value of redeeming captives (Pidyon shvuim) and its ramifications in the various strata of Israeli Society.
4. The fourth part of the course will focus on October 7th. What happened? We will trace the events of that day as well as anything that led to it according to the forthcoming findings of the official commission of inquiry. We will also discuss its global repercussion.

Structure

The classes will take place on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays for three hours per day.

Course Components

• Top ranked academic readings on the subject
• Video and audio input, PowerPoints & dynamic class discussions
• Field study trip & guest speakers
• Final take home exam

View the syllabus.

See July Session summer schedule below.

Apply by: April 15, 2025

Arrive on campus: June 30, 2025

Program length: Four Weeks

For payment deadlines, see here.

Tuition: US$ 1,980

Application fee: US$ 120

Housing:  US$ 850*

* Depending on availability

Learn more about fees and paying for the program.

Scholarships

A limited number of scholarships based on demonstrated need or merit are available.

Students who complete their application to this program by February 16, 2025 and who also complete payment by March 16, 2025, will be eligible for a 10% early bird discount on the program tuition. In the event that a student applies for more than one summer course, the 10% early bird discount will be applied to one of the summer.

You’ll be invited to participate in a wide array of trips, tours, and activities offered by the Office of Student Life. From a tour of the Old City to a trip to the Dead Sea to checking out the local festivals, you’ll build your own unique impressions and memories of Jerusalem and Israel. While residing in HebrewU dormitories with other international and Israeli students, you’ll have a chance to form new friendships and get involved in campus life. A team of multilingual Israeli students, called madrichim, is also there to help you adjust to your new surroundings and give you tips on things to do. Learn more about student life at HebrewU.

This course is open to undergraduate and graduate students, as well as to mature learners with an academic background. You must be currently registered at or have been accepted to a recognized college or university or have successfully completed at least one year of study at an accredited institution of higher education. English-language fluency is also required.