Bachelor's Programme in Holocaust and Genocide Studies

The programme combines a set of carefully designed core courses with the flexibility to explore your own academic interests. In addition to compulsory modules, you will also have the opportunity to take courses at other departments within the humanities and social sciences. You can also study abroad, or gain valuable work experience through an internship.

Semester 1

Your studies begin with a broad introduction to the field. This covers the foundations of Holocaust and Genocide Studies, the role of the state and violence, the relationship between empire, modernity and mass violence, and an in-depth look at the Holocaust in the context of totalitarian society.

Semester 2

In the second semester of the programme, you will expand your perspective through interdisciplinary research methods, international relations and international law, as well as focused case studies on Rwanda and the legacy of colonialism, and on Yugoslavia in a twentieth-century context.

Semesters 3 and 4

During the second year, you will forge your own path. You may choose from a range of elective courses in the humanities and social sciences. You can study abroad for up to one semester, or take on an internship in Sweden or internationally. This part of the programme gives you the freedom to tailor your studies according to your personal interests and career goals.

Semester 5

Your advanced courses explore key analytical themes such as class, gender and ethnicity, the ideologies behind mass violence, and its cultural expressions. You will also have the chance to engage in a thematic specialisation of your choice.

Semester 6

The final semester is devoted to preparing for and then writing your Bachelor’s thesis. You will strengthen your methodological skills and conduct independent research, applying the knowledge and perspectives you have developed throughout the programme.

Study abroad

With the option to spend a semester abroad at a partner university, the programme offers you an international outlook and the chance to gain experiences that extend beyond the classroom.

Teaching takes place in Uppsala in the form of lectures, seminars, and independent group work. Supervision is provided both individually and in groups. All instruction is conducted in English. All teachers are well-qualified researchers who have published their findings in international journals and with reputable foreign publishers, ensuring that the teaching is closely connected to the latest research in each field.

Active participation in all components is mandatory. Assessment is based on active participation in seminars, the writing of memoranda and other short written and oral presentations, as well as the thesis and its defence. You will also be required to lead the discussion during someone else’s thesis defence.

The programme will provide you with empirical knowledge and theoretical insights based on state-of-the-art research and pedagogy in the field of Holocaust and genocide studies. A variety of international organisations actively seek students equipped with such knowledge and analytical skills.

Graduates of our master’s programme have gone on to careers as museum curators, NGO professionals (e.g. Civil Peace Service at Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit - GIZ), team leaders at the Swedish Police Authority, analysts at the Swedish Defence Research Agency, and senior programme managers at the Organization of American States (OAS). Others contribute to organisations such as the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) or continue to doctoral studies in Europe and the United States.

Career support

During your time as a student, UU Careers offers support and guidance. You have the opportunity to take part in a variety of activities and events that will prepare you for your future career.