College Catalog: 2011-2012

The program will emphasize the study of human rights and genocide as academic and practical pursuits and will aim to prepare students for graduate school, as well as career opportunities in international organizations, government, non-profits, multinational corporations, and the media. It will be firmly anchored in the belief that establishing legal frameworks in erecting viable international support systems represent the best hope that humankind has in preventing genocide, torture, religious persecution, and other assaults upon human dignity and rights.

Students will achieve an understanding of the origins, theory and practice of international human rights and the treatment of genocide as a crime under international law. Linkages to human rights and genocide prevention organizations and agencies located in the New York metropolitan area will be developed. Students will be encouraged to understand and question the implementation of human rights and genocide prevention theories and policies, as well as to acquire practical work experience through internships and other experiential learning opportunities. The development of communication skills, foreign language proficiency, and participation in study abroad opportunities will be promoted and supported. Student-faculty research projects will be encouraged. Co-curricular opportunities related to human rights will be provided by AIS colloquia, guest lectures, and film screening, as well as by events organized by the Center for Holocaust and Genocide Studies. The Cahill Center will provide valuable assistance in developing meaningful experiential learning opportunities for students.

As with other minors, the Human Rights and Genocide Studies minor is intended to complement the disciplinary specialization and methodological training inherent in a major. Students will achieve the necessary background for eventual career and graduate study opportunities in advocacy organizations, journalism, teaching, policy analysis, or service in government and intergovernmental entities.

1. Students are required to take 5 courses (20 credits) to complete this minor.
2. At least 1/2 of the courses fulfilling a minor must be distinct from the student’s major. That is, three of the five courses required for a minor cannot be used towards fulfillment of major requirements. A school core does not need to be completed for a minor. Minors are open to students regardless of school affiliation.

School of American and International Studies Website
Center for Holocaust and Genocide Studies Website
Faculty Profiles