Human Rights MA, PGDip and PGCert

This MA is based on an established programme developed in collaboration with leading human rights activists to provide training for future human rights professionals.

The cutting-edge content looks at human rights issues from a practical perspective as well as a theoretical and legal one. We offer a wide range of elective modules. The topics address emerging issues in human rights, such as the impact of environmental destruction on human rights; human rights and the Sustainable Development Goals; or cultural genocide.

Study with us for an interdisciplinary approach, with a vibrant, global mix of students and chances to learn from human rights professionals from around the world.

Students can exit with PGCert and PGDip awards.

How you study

The programme is available online and is fully supported by a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), as well as study materials and help from academic staff. It allows you to study anywhere in the world and fit your studies around your other commitments.

Assessment

• Understanding Human Rights / Translating Human Rights into International Law: assessed by a seen written exam (70% of the grade) and three E-tivities (30%).
• Securing Human Rights: assessed by two equally-weighted items of coursework (70% of the grade) and three E-tivities (30%).
• All elective modules: assessed by one item of coursework (70% of the grade) and three E-tivities (30%).
• Dissertation: assessed by a research proposal (15% of the grade) and a written thesis (85%).

Examinations are held twice a year (usually January and June) at exam centres located all around the world.

Career opportunities

This MA programme is designed for those who wish to develop or enhance careers in a range of professional contexts in the human rights or humanitarian fields.

Graduates of the related on-campus MA have gone on to work for major international NGOs including Amnesty International, Oxfam, Friends of the Earth and Anti-Slavery International, as well as several UN agencies, businesses, academia and in government.

Students need to have an undergraduate degree (e.g. bachelor) which is considered at least comparable to a UK upper second class honours degree, from an institution acceptable to the University.