What will I learn on this module?
This module is intended to provide a thorough introduction to the crime of genocide. It begins with a discussion of the origins of the term of genocide and its varied definitions. Then, students explore a variety of historical genocides to identify elements of the crime as well as to compare/contrast these varied events. Finally, the module covers legal responses to genocide as well as early warning and prevention.
How will I learn on this module?
The module is structured around a one hour lecture and a 2 hour seminar. The seminar will draw on concepts presented in the lecture. It will also have its own required reading and preparation. Seminar activities will include detailed discussion as well as group exercises.
Reading lists and preparation for group activities will be placed on the blackboard site, and all students are encouraged to book tutorials with the module leader, especially as we draw close to the assessment deadlines.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
The module leader will be available for individual tutorials in addition to the timetabled sessions. Lectures will present a comprehensive introduction to the material for that week. Seminars will be interactive with that interactivity taking a variety of forms. Students are expected to engage critically with the module and its contents and to prepare for class by doing that week’s reading. The module will be supported by a blackboard site.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
• Understand the definition(s) and evolution of the concept of genocide
• Apply the concept of genocide to historical examples
• Understand the causal factors leading to genocide
• Compare and contrast historical genocides
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
• Independently develop and answer a research question related to the module content
• Craft a well-organized essay supported by scholarly sources
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
• Understand the causes of genocide in societies
How will I be assessed?
This module has two assessments. The first is a prosecution brief (40%) where students will choose a participant in a historical genocide and will draft a brief outlining the ways in which that person was guilty of genocide and/or other associated crimes. In a well-argued brief of 2,000 words, they will provide a short summary of the person’s actions and motivations and then present a detailed argument for charging them with the crime of genocide and its associated actions. Where possible, they will also refer to historical precedent in prosecution of genocide.
The second assessment (60%) is an essay where students will choose a question from a list of options and apply it to the genocide of their choice in a 3,000 word essay. With tutor approval, they may also craft their own question. This essay will be based on secondary readings and supported by citations of appropriate sources.
Pre-requisite(s)
N/A
Co-requisite(s)
N/A
Module abstract
What is genocide and why does it happen? These are the key questions behind this module. Students will be introduced to the concept of definitions of genocide before exploring how and why people and societies kill. Then they will explore and analyze historical genocides through specialized readings and primary source documents. Finally, the module will consider the prosecution of genocide and the difficult tasks of identifying and preventing future genocides.
Course info
UCAS Code M900
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department Social Sciences
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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