The overall aim of the course is to impart information about genocide and to develop the student's ability to analyze it as a historical phenomenon, particularly with respect to cases of mass extermination that took place in the 20th century. One of the specific aims of the course is to raise students' sensitivity to this aspect of humanity and to encourage them to examine their personal view of the issue.

Every week comprises 4-5 short video lectures with interactive computer-based quizzes that provide instant feedback. The video lectures reference an online textbook which is fully and freely accessible to all of the students. Weekly assignments and course projects allow students to use the textbook and additional learning materials to study the topic in depth. Forums are provided to enable students to collaboratively study with peers from around the world, discussing the course materials and the course assignments. The course is structured to allow students to choose whether they want to simply audit the course passively, spending about two hours a week in lectures and online quizzes, or to engage with the materials in depth.