International Crimes and Criminology (MSc)

Students' views

“International Crimes and Criminology combines two of my passions. Prior to taking this programme, I had studied the domestic application of Criminological theory, and my exposure to International Law was confined to its legal context. Exploring the two disciplines together now is such an eye-opener! Reconciling the social science and the legal perspectives challenges students’ assumptions regarding the adequacy of past international criminal outcomes and encourages us think critically and flexibly about how the commission of international crimes might be averted in the future. Taking this programme and studying in Europe – where there are so many more opportunities for international legal practice – really has been the icing on the cake for my law degree.”
Lisa-Claire Hutchinson (Australia), exchange student of International Crimes and Criminology (2008/2009) 



“I am from Sudan and I worked for several years for the International Committee of the Red Cross. The programme in International Crimes and Criminology gives me the unique opportunity to compare the practical side of the work that I have done for the Red Cross with its theoretical component. The subjects in the programme reflect reality and they give me a broad, interdisciplinary perspective on the field. It requires quite some effort, intellectually as well as emotionally, but it’s so valuable that I can recommend it to anyone. Furthermore, studying at VU University Amsterdam is a very good experience. Study facilities like Blackboard are outstanding and the general atmosphere is great: very collegial and personal.”
Mohammed Khater (Sudan), student of International Crimes and Criminology (2008/2009) 



“This field of study is very new, so there’s still so much to discover. This gives you the opportunity to do a lot of research and it’s a rewarding feeling to be able to contribute to exploring it all. The students’ different backgrounds are also very valuable. Each student has an individual perspective, which makes class discussions very instructive. You are trained to approach the subjects as a scientist. However, you should never become so detached that you forget about the real people you are studying. We therefore sometimes discuss highly confrontational issues in class. I feel this is very positive, because it reminds you of what you are actually dealing with. I had great expectations for this programme and they have already been exceeded!”
Maartje Weerdesteijn (the Netherlands), student of International Crimes and Criminology (2008/2009)