Violence Studies

About this minor

The study of violence is relevant not only because of the impact on primary victims, but also because the resulting ripple effect goes far beyond the initial act, and can create a climate of fear and insecurity.

This interdisciplinary minor will focus on interpersonal violence (i.e. violence taking place between individuals), the most common types including physical violence and sexual violence. Even though violence stemming from armed conflict receives considerable attention from the international community, interpersonal violence accounts for far more victims than those attributable to, for example, war or terrorism.

In this minor programme we study the origins, correlates, mechanisms, social contexts, and resilience after experiencing violence. We delve deeper into the ways in which we can both prevent as well as respond to acts of violence.

What will you learn?

In this minor programme, you will become familiar with the nature and scope of violence; the ways in which it impacts public order, and the ways in which society can respond to and, ultimately, prevent violence.
Furthermore, the programme contains courses that address specific forms of violence, ranging from domestic violence (child abuse and neglect, intimate partner violence), lethal violence (drug-related homicide and firearm-related homicide), and the impact of violence on individuals, communities, and society at large.

Interdisciplinary orientation

Using criminological, sociological, historical, public health, neurobiological and psychological perspectives, this minor programme provides you with an in-depth understanding on this multifaceted phenomenon.

This minor is taught by leading experts in the field. In addition, the minor includes guest lecturers who work in the field of violence studies. As scientific researchers and experts working in government, public health and criminal justice organisations, they will put theoretical notions into practical perspective.