University of Amsterdam

Overview

The Master of Arts in Holocaust and Genocide Studies at the University of Amsterdam is a comprehensive one-year program that explores the complex themes of genocide and mass atrocities. Through an interdisciplinary approach, students engage with critical research and historical archives, benefiting from the expertise of the NIOD Institute for War, Holocaust and Genocide Studies. The program is delivered in English and is designed for full-time on-campus study in the vibrant city of Amsterdam.

What you'll study

Programme Structure: This full-time course spans one academic year and is worth 60 ECTS credits.

• Core Course: Holocaust and Genocide Studies
• Comparative and Thematic Courses:
  • Topics in Comparative Genocide Studies
  • Topics in Transitional Justice
  • European Experiences of Decolonization
• Seminars on Historical Interpretation and Politics of Memory:
  • “The West”: Cultural and Intellectual History of a Contested Concept
  • Democracy and Distrust: An American Case History

Research and Assessment: The program emphasizes the development of advanced academic writing and research skills. Assessment methods typically include essays, seminar papers, and a final research project, such as a thesis or research paper, tailored to the specific course setup each year.

Note: Course titles and assessment formats may vary slightly by academic year, and students will receive an official study guide upon enrollment.

Entry requirements

Applicants are required to hold a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in a relevant field. Suitable educational backgrounds include history, European studies with a focus on European History, the humanities, liberal arts, or social sciences. Additionally, candidates must have completed a minimum of 30 ECTS in history or related studies that focus on mass violence and genocide, which can include areas such as genocide studies, conflict studies, ethnic studies, colonial studies, global history, and memory studies.

There are currently no specific GRE or GMAT requirements for this program.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Holocaust and Genocide Studies program can pursue a variety of career paths in academia, research, public policy, human rights organizations, and educational institutions. The program equips students with critical analytical skills and a deep understanding of historical contexts, making them well-suited for roles that require expertise in history, social justice, and international relations.