Chevron Left
Back to Introduction to International Criminal Law

Learner Reviews & Feedback for Introduction to International Criminal Law by Case Western Reserve University

4.8
stars
3,975 ratings

About the Course

-- About the Course -- From the Nuremberg trial to the case against Saddam Hussein, from the prosecution of Al-Qaeda terrorists to the trial of Somali pirates – no area of law is as important to world peace and security as international criminal law. Taught by one of the world’s leading experts in the field, this course will educate students about the fundamentals of international criminal law and policy. We will explore the contours of international crimes such as genocide, war crimes, terrorism, and piracy. We will examine unique modes of international criminal liability and specialized defenses. And we will delve into the challenges of obtaining custody of the accused and maintaining control of the courtroom. -- Course Syllabus -- This course comprises eight units (or "modules"). Each will include an assigned reading, typically an article or book chapter, as well as a simulation designed to bring the readings to life. I will also offer video lectures on each of the topics, accompanied by slides. In addition, there will be online role-play exercises and debates, enabling the students to share their own insights. The order of class sessions will be: (1) History: From Nuremberg to The Hague (2) International Crimes Part 1: War Crimes, Genocide, Crimes against Humanity, and Torture (3) International Crimes Part 2: Terrorism and Piracy (4) Special modes of liability: command responsibility, co-perpetration, and incitement (5) Special defenses: insanity, obedience to orders, duress, and head of state immunity (6) Gaining custody of the accused: extradition, luring, abduction, and targeted killing (7) Pre-Trial Issues: plea bargaining, self-representation, and exclusion of torture evidence (8) Maintaining control of the courtroom -- Recommended Background -- You don’t have to be a lawyer and there are no prerequisites for this course. However, the course will be conducted at the level expected of advanced undergraduate students. Therefore, for all participants, reading and writing comfortably in English at the undergraduate college level is desirable. -- Suggested Readings -- Students should read the assigned online materials for each unit in advance of the class session. In addition, students are invited to subscribe to “War Crimes Prosecution Watch,” a free bi-weekly e-newsletter that summarizes the latest developments in the field of international criminal law. -- Course Format -- This course is made up of eight content units. Each unit is based on an online reading assignment, a video lecture of about one hour in length, and one or more role play exercises to stimulate on-line discussion. The course also offers in-video enrichment quizzes (ungraded) for each unit, a ten question multiple choice midterm diagnostics exam (ungraded), and a ten question True/False Final Exam. -- FAQ-- How will this course be graded? This course is graded on completion. In order to complete the course each student must: (1) finish each module (or “lesson”); (2) write at least one essay response of 200 words or more for at least one simulation throughout the course; and (3) get a score of 6 out of 10 or better on the Final Exam. What resources will I need for this course? For this course, all you need is an Internet connection, and the time to read and discuss the exciting materials available online. What is the coolest thing about this course? The topics we will be discussing are ripped from the headlines. The topics are often controversial and thought-provoking, and always exciting....

Top reviews

SA

Mar 15, 2020

This was one of the best courses I ever had. I was too much into this course. I learned a lot I don't have law background but Professor explained everything very well. Thank you :)

FJ

Aug 26, 2023

Professor Michael P. Scharf is an outstanding teacher, and I am happy that I could listen to his lectures and study the materials in this Course on Introduction to International Criminal Law.

Filter by:

401 - 425 of 1,009 Reviews for Introduction to International Criminal Law

By BILU K

•

Sep 26, 2016

A great course introduces you to the International Law Making Body's. Love it!

By Byron P

•

Jul 20, 2025

Buenas noches mis estimado felicitaciones de antemano muchas gracias perfecto

By shivika b

•

Sep 12, 2020

This course is amazing and everyone should try it as it clears many concepts.

By Joseph S

•

Sep 5, 2020

very good, very interesting and stimulating. i enjoyed the course very much !

By RAJESH K

•

May 4, 2020

it was a very good experience in learning from a highly experienced professor

By SHADMAN A

•

Sep 14, 2024

A course which helped me to understand the fundamentals of ICL. Recommended.

By PRAKASH P

•

Aug 16, 2015

Great Learning! Thank you Professor for the wonderful course!

Regards,

Prakash

By Aleksandra F

•

Dec 27, 2023

Many interesting and useful information on the subject. Strongly recommend!

By Lyndsey R

•

Aug 26, 2022

Extremely informative and insightful. Easy to follow and thorough syllabus.

By ALAA A B

•

Jun 15, 2020

it is great that we hoped that if it is longer and dealt with more subjects

By Shambhavi S

•

May 5, 2020

Intriguing, Well Explained and Informative. Extremely helpful for students.

By James S N

•

Jan 27, 2016

The course is so fantastic and it open up to human rights and law i like it

By MATEUS R O

•

May 30, 2021

I have no words! Wonderful course, wonderful professor, wonderful lessons!

By Dheeraj B

•

Apr 21, 2021

Excellent information. I did download some of the videos to watch it later

By Karla C

•

Oct 31, 2020

i really learn so much about the history of the international criminal law

By Paulo M d C C

•

Aug 25, 2015

Good e extensive reading material and clear and interesting video classes

By Rafael C

•

Nov 2, 2020

This course is excelent.I learned much and I had much motivation.Thanks.

By Divya K

•

Jul 5, 2020

excellent and interesting as it makes the learner to be a active learner

By sajida m

•

May 29, 2020

Iit was very useful and helpful course about international criminal law

By Alvinder K

•

Apr 26, 2020

Great course, very interesting and engaging, Prof Scharf is exceptional.

By Rafael C P

•

Feb 25, 2019

EXCELLENT COURSE,

VERY UNSUITABLE TOPIC. THE SPEAKER EXPLAINS VERY WELL.

By Farhath m

•

Sep 2, 2020

Farhath munni.k

farhathmunni210@gmail. Com

Mes kalladi college

Mannarkadu

By Cyriac J

•

Aug 23, 2020

Excellent and was very helpful for the flourishing of a budding lawyer.

By Anita K

•

May 6, 2020

It was very good experience for me for doing this course from Coursera.

By Vikas

•

Jul 4, 2021

The course gives a insight on criminal and acts in international level