Human Rights and Migration

The Master's programme in Human Rights and Migration at Radboud University offers an in-depth exploration of the complex issues surrounding human rights violations and migration phenomena across the globe. This interdisciplinary programme is designed for students who are passionate about advocating for social justice, understanding the legal and ethical dimensions of migration, and contributing to policy development to address contemporary challenges related to human mobility. Throughout the programme, students will engage with a broad range of topics including international human rights law, refugee protection, asylum policies, migrant rights, and the socio-political dynamics influencing migration patterns. The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical insights, featuring case studies, policy analysis, and opportunities for hands-on experience through internships and research projects. Students will learn to critically evaluate the normative frameworks and institutional mechanisms that protect or hinder the rights of migrants and refugees. Collaboration with international experts, participation in seminars, and engagement with NGOs and governmental organizations provide a global perspective on pressing migration issues. The programme aims to equip graduates with the analytical skills, legal knowledge, and ethical sensibilities necessary to develop, implement, and advocate for effective human rights policies related to migration. Graduates of this Master's programme are prepared for careers in international organizations, NGOs, governmental agencies, policy advisory bodies, or further academic research. Emphasizing both theoretical and practical understanding, the programme seeks to foster innovative approaches to promoting human dignity and managing migration challenges in an increasingly interconnected world.

The Master's degree in Human Rights and Migration at Radboud University offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary curriculum designed to equip students with an in-depth understanding of the complex issues surrounding human rights violations and migration processes worldwide. The program aims to foster critical thinking, analytical skills, and practical expertise, enabling graduates to contribute effectively to policies, advocacy, and research in these critical fields. Throughout the programme, students explore the historical, legal, political, social, and ethical dimensions of human rights and migration, engaging with contemporary challenges such as refugees crises, statelessness, discrimination, and human trafficking. The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, encouraging students to analyze real-world case studies and develop innovative solutions. Core courses cover international human rights law, migration theory, refugee protection, and the role of international organizations. Specialized electives allow students to focus on areas of particular interest, such as gender and migration, migration governance, or migration and development. The programme emphasizes experiential learning through internships, engaging with NGOs, governmental agencies, and international institutions to gain hands-on experience. Additionally, students participate in seminars, workshops, and research projects that promote interdisciplinary insights and critical debates. The faculty comprises experts from diverse backgrounds, including law, political science, sociology, and anthropology, providing a rich academic environment. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in international organizations, governmental bodies, NGOs, research institutes, and policy advisory roles. They acquire not only a deep understanding of human rights and migration issues but also practical skills in advocacy, policy analysis, and project management. With its international orientation and emphasis on practical engagement, this Master's program is ideal for individuals committed to promoting justice, equality, and the protection of vulnerable populations worldwide.

A completed Bachelor's or Master's degree* , or equivalent diploma in (European) Law.

A proficiency in English

In order to take part in this programme, you need to have an adequate knowledge of English. Non-native speakers of English** need to proof their proficiency by one of the following tests:

• A TOEFL score with a minimum score of 90 overall (internet-based, with a minimum of 23 for writing) or 575 (paper-based). The institutional TOEFL code for Radboud University is 3387; or
• An IELTS score with a minimum of 6.5 overall (with a minimum score of 6.0 minimum for the components listening, reading and speaking and a 6.5 minimum for writing); or
• A Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE) with a grade of C or Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) with a grade of C.

Motivation letter in English

Please explain in your motivation letter why you would like to enrol in the Master’s specialisation of your choice within the European Law programme. Also attach your resume with a photo and your grade list to this letter.

Please note: The selection committee strives for an internationally diverse student population within this specialisation. Therefore the number of places available to Dutch students is limited.

If you are a Chinese student and want to register as a student on an English-taught programme at a Dutch higher education institution you need to apply for a Nuffic Certificate. More information can be found on the Study in Holland website.

* Students who obtained their degree in Indonesia e.g., are required to have obtained a Master's degree in Law (Sarjana Hukum II).

** Applicants are considered to be a native speaker of English if they are a citizen of Australia, Canada (with exception of Quebec), Ireland, New Zealand, Singapore, UK, USA or South Africa, or if they have obtained an LL.B Bachelor's programme in Law in one of the countries mentioned above. Students from the European Law School Bachelor at Radboud University, are also exempted from a language test.

There are various scholarships available for studying at Radboud University. Some of the opportunities are described below. A full list, including detailed information, can be found on our scholarships and grants page at our website. 

Radboud Scholarship Programme

Open to a select number of excellent international students. Instead of the institutional tuition fees, non-EEA students pay the legal tuition fees (€2,060 in 2018/2019). Visa and residence permit costs, liability insurance and health insurance are also covered.

Orange Tulip Scholarship

Open to students from Brazil, Mexico, Russia, Indonesia, South-Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, and China. Instead of the institutional tuition fees, non-EEA students pay the legal tuition fees (€2,060 in 2018/2019). Visa and residence permit costs, liability insurance and health insurance are also covered.

Fulbright-Radboud Scholarships

Open to excellent American students. The grant will be paid in 12 monthly instalments of 1,050 euros. International travel and the cost of the residence permit will be covered, and an extra allowance of €1150 will be paid on arrival.

Sino-Dutch Bilateral Exchange Scholarship

Open to excellent students from China. Consists of a contribution of € 16,113 towards the total costs of one year of study or research in the Netherlands.

DIKTI-Neso Scholarships

Aimed at lecturers at higher education institutions in Indonesia who wish to pursue a PhD or Master's at a university in the Netherlands. A DIKTI scholarship includes allowances for living expenses, insurance, travel costs, tuition fees and more.

Indonesian Education Scholarship (LPDP)

Open to excellent Indonesian students under the age of 35. Involves a full scholarship.

Holland Scholarship Programme

Open to excellent students from Canada, America, India and Turkey. Scholarship consists of 5,000 euros payed at the start of study.

Dutch Student Finance

EU/EEA students and Swiss students under 30 years of age are eligible if they are working at least 56 hours per month in the Netherlands, or have been living in the Netherlands for five years or more. Dutch student finance consists of four components: a basic grant, a supplementary grant (depending on the parental income), a student travel product, and a loan.

The Master's degree in Human Rights and Migration at Radboud University offers an in-depth exploration of the complex issues surrounding human rights violations and migration dynamics worldwide. This interdisciplinary program combines insights from law, social sciences, and humanities to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the legal, social, and political aspects of human rights and migration. Students engage with contemporary challenges such as refugee flows, statelessness, discrimination, and the protection of vulnerable groups. The curriculum emphasizes critical analysis, policy evaluation, and practical approaches to addressing migration-related human rights issues. Throughout the program, students participate in case studies, fieldwork, and discussions led by renowned experts, preparing them for careers in international organizations, NGOs, government agencies, and research institutions. The program also highlights the importance of cultural sensitivity and ethical considerations when dealing with vulnerable populations. Graduates acquire essential skills in advocacy, legal analysis, research methodologies, and policy development, enabling them to contribute effectively to solutions for migration and human rights challenges. Classes are taught in a collaborative environment, often involving internships, workshops, and guest lectures from practitioners and scholars. The program aims to foster a global perspective while encouraging critical thinking and active engagement. It emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary approaches and cross-cultural understanding. With its focus on both theoretical frameworks and practical applications, the Master's in Human Rights and Migration prepares students for meaningful careers dedicated to promoting justice, equality, and protection of vulnerable groups across different contexts around the world.