International Criminal Law involves the study of the most serious offences committed by human beings against others. It is necessary to understand where these concepts originate from, and the context in which the offences occur, and the historical background to the development of these offences; how the offences are relevant today, and how and where the 'laws' are applied. Specifically, students will examine:

1. The development of international criminal law
2. The law of genocide
3. Crimes against humanity

S. Steiner & Alston, International Human Rights in Context, Oxford, 2008
Cassese, International Criminal Law, Oxford, 2008
De Than & Shorts, International Criminal Law and Human Rights, Sweet & Maxwell, 2004
Kittichaisaree, International Criminal Law, Oxford, 2005

Well stocked library.
Computer facilities with internet access and quality print media.

This module will be strongly student-centred. It will be delivered through a series of 6 x 2.5 hour seminars supported by student research and personal study. Students will follow a set pattern contained in the module handbook. Students are expected to conduct their own in-depth research and will be expected to read considerable amounts of material prior to seminars so that they can fully participate in an informed seminar debte.

The peculiarities of the subject do not lend themselves to traditional formal lectures, and consequently seminars facilitate the discourse inherent in this controversial and highly contentious discipline.

Pre-reading before each seminar: 6 x 20 hours = 120 hours
Assignment research: 15 hours

Total independent learning hours: 135 hours

One 3,000 word essay (assessing learning outcomes 1-4)

The assignment should demonstrate the student's ability to produce a substantial piece of legal writing which satisfies the learning outcomes. To pass the module, students must obtain a mark of at least 40%.

Additional Assessment Details (including formative feedback / assessment):
Guidance is given to students in seminars.