Human Rights

The Bachelor of Human Rights at Carleton University offers students a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education focused on the critical issues surrounding human rights, social justice, and global development. This program is designed to equip students with the theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and ethical understanding necessary to analyze complex human rights challenges and to contribute effectively to advocacy, policy development, and human rights initiatives. Through a diverse curriculum that combines disciplines such as political science, law, sociology, and international relations, students gain a well-rounded perspective on issues including racial justice, gender equality, refugee rights, Indigenous rights, and freedom of expression. The program emphasizes experiential learning, offering opportunities for internships, community engagement, and research projects that provide real-world experience and foster active citizenship. Students will learn about international human rights frameworks, regional and national legal systems, and the role of international organizations in protecting human rights. The curriculum also encourages critical thinking about ethical considerations and the socio-political factors that influence human rights practices worldwide. Graduates of the Human Rights program at Carleton are prepared to pursue careers in various sectors, including non-profit organizations, government agencies, international institutions, advocacy groups, and academia. They will have the analytical skills necessary to assess human rights issues, develop effective strategies for advocacy, and promote social justice on local, national, and global scales. By fostering a commitment to social equity and respect for diversity, this program aims to develop informed and engaged citizens who are dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights everywhere.