Human Rights and Transitional Justice

The Master's degree in Human Rights and Transitional Justice at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem offers students a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of critical issues related to human rights violations, justice, and reconciliation in post-conflict societies. This program is designed to equip students with the theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and ethical understanding necessary to analyze, evaluate, and contribute to the development of policies and practices aimed at promoting justice and human rights in diverse contexts.

Throughout the coursework, students will examine the historical, political, and legal frameworks underpinning human rights and transitional justice processes, including truth commissions, reparations, criminal prosecutions, and institutional reforms. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of understanding the socio-cultural dynamics that influence transitional justice initiatives, with particular attention to conflict resolution, peacebuilding, and societal reconciliation. Students will also engage with contemporary case studies from around the world, enabling them to apply learned concepts to real-world situations and develop nuanced approaches tailored to specific societal needs.

The program combines academic learning with practical experience through internships, research projects, and seminars led by leading experts and practitioners in the field. Students will have opportunities to collaborate with NGOs, governmental agencies, and international organizations involved in transitional justice efforts. Additionally, the program fosters critical thinking and ethical reflection, encouraging students to consider the moral implications of justice processes and the responsibilities of international and domestic actors.

Graduates of this program will be well-prepared to pursue careers in international organizations, human rights advocacy groups, legal institutions, government agencies, and academia. They will possess a deep understanding of the complexities involved in addressing past abuses and building more just and equitable societies. The Master's in Human Rights and Transitional Justice at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem is committed to fostering a new generation of professionals dedicated to advancing human dignity, accountability, and reconciliation worldwide.

The M.A. Program is comprised of theoretical and practical courses, workshops, and seminars which provide a substantial interdisciplinary grounding in fields such as human rights and transitional justice, and comparative and historical courses, in which the students are exposed to key cases dealt with by different countries at different periods of time. Special emphasis will be given to the Israeli-Arab conflict and its resolution.

Applicants must have a BA degree from an accredited university in political science, international relations and other academic disciplines related to the fields of human rights and transitional justice.

Applicants who did not previously study at an educational institution where the language of instruction was English must submit official TOELFL or IELTS scores. The minimum TOEFL score required is 600 on the paper-based test, 250 on the computer-based test or 89 on the internet-based test. The minimum IELTS score is 7.

Applicants are required to provide their CV, sample of academic writing, letter of recommendation, and official academic transcripts.

Scholarships and stipends are available to qualified students. Please contact Ms. Shanie Rabinowitz, program coordinator for more information: shaniebe@savion.huji.ac.il

Additional scholarships available:

• MASA 
• Rothberg International School - The International programs, held in conjunction with Rothberg International School, offer a variety of scholarships to qualified candidates.

The Hebrew University of Jerusalem offers a comprehensive programme in Human Rights and Transitional Justice aimed at equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address complex human rights issues and transitional justice processes worldwide. This interdisciplinary programme combines legal, political, social, and ethical perspectives to ensure a well-rounded understanding of the challenges faced by societies in transition from conflict or authoritarian rule to peace, democracy, and rule of law. Students in this programme explore topics such as international human rights law, international criminal law, the mechanisms for accountability and justice, truth commissions, reconciliation processes, and the roles of national and international institutions. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, often including case studies, simulations, and internships with relevant organizations, NGOs, or governmental bodies involved in transitional justice initiatives.

The programme is designed for a diverse body of students, including those with backgrounds in law, political science, history, or human rights activism. Faculty members are renowned experts in their fields, bringing a wealth of academic and practical experience. The programme also encourages research and critical thinking, fostering an environment where students can contribute to scholarship and policy development. Graduates of this programme are prepared for careers in international organizations such as the United Nations, human rights NGOs, legal practice, governmental agencies, or academic research. The Hebrew University’s location in Jerusalem provides a unique context for studying issues of conflict, peacebuilding, and justice, offering students direct exposure to regions and situations where transitional justice processes are actively underway.

Overall, the Human Rights and Transitional Justice programme at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem is distinguished by its academic rigor, practical orientation, and the opportunity for students to engage with pressing global issues in a dynamic and historically significant setting.