Human Rights

The MSc in Human Rights at University College London offers a comprehensive and rigorous exploration of the fundamental principles, institutions, and challenges surrounding human rights issues worldwide. This program is designed for students who are passionate about advocating for social justice, understanding legal frameworks, and promoting human dignity across diverse contexts. The curriculum combines theoretical analyses with practical applications, equipping students with the analytical skills and policy understanding necessary to address complex human rights challenges in an increasingly interconnected world. Core modules cover topics such as the history and philosophy of human rights, international human rights law, human rights enforcement and compliance, and the role of international organizations. Students also have the opportunity to engage with specialized subjects like human rights and development, transitional justice, and digital rights, ensuring a well-rounded education pertinent to contemporary issues. The program emphasizes critical thinking, research, and policy-making skills, encouraging students to develop innovative solutions to humanitarian and human rights problems. Taught by leading academics and practitioners in the field, this program offers a vibrant intellectual community and access to extensive resources, including seminars, workshops, and professional networks. Graduates are well-equipped to pursue careers in international organizations, governmental agencies, NGOs, legal practice, academia, or policy development. The MSc in Human Rights at UCL is committed to fostering an in-depth understanding of global human rights issues and empowering students to become effective advocates for justice and equality worldwide.

Students develop an understanding of the central issues and problems in the formulation, defence, development, interpretation and application of human rights instruments, law, practice and policy. They gain knowledge of central disciplines and their contribution to human rights studies, and are equipped with key research skills in human rights.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of four core modules (75 credits), three optional modules (45 credits), and a research dissertation (60 credits).

Core modules

• International Law and Human Rights (30)
• International Human Rights: Standards and Institutions (15)
• Theoretical Foundations of Human Rights (15)
• Normative Methods, Legal Analysis and Research Skills (15)

Optional modules

• Choose one of the following 15-credit modules:
• Introduction to Qualitative Methods (15)
• Advanced Qualitative Methods (15)
• Introduction to Quantitative Methods (15)
• Advanced Quantitative Methods (15)
• Choose further modules up to a value of 30 credits in total from a list available at:
• www.ucl.ac.uk/spp/teaching/masters/ma-human-rights
• The following are suggestions:
• Terrorism (15)
• War and International Law (15)
• Equality, Justice and Difference (15)
• The Ethics of Poverty (15)
• Democracy and Accountability: Holding Power to Account (15)
• Governing Divided Societies (15)
• Gendering the Study of Politics: Theory and Practice (15)
• The Politics of Human Rights in Latin America: challenges to Democratisation (15)
• Global Ethics (15)

Dissertation/report

All MA students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 10,000 words.

Teaching and learning

The programme has an integrated research and teaching approach, where key and cutting edge areas are brought into the seminar room for discussion, and students are encouraged to carry out original research into these areas. Assessment is through essays, unseen examination, seminar presentations, and the dissertation.

As a minimum, an upper second-class Bachelor's degree from a UK university; a CGPA of 3.3; or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard. Relevant practical or work experience in a related field may also be taken into account.

Funding options for the Human Rights program at University College London include a variety of scholarships, bursaries, and financial support schemes designed to assist both domestic and international students. Prospective students are encouraged to explore the university's official scholarships webpage for the most up-to-date listings of available awards. UCL offers several prestigious scholarships specifically aimed at human rights and related disciplines, such as the UCL Graduate Research Scholarships and departmental-specific funding opportunities. These scholarships often cover tuition fees partially or fully and may include stipends for living expenses. Additionally, students may be eligible for external funding sources, including government sponsorships, international organization grants, and private foundations that support human rights education and research. International students should also investigate specific country-based scholarship programs or agreements between their home country institutions and UCL. The university also provides guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for financial aid opportunities. It is recommended that applicants submit their scholarship and funding applications concurrently with their degree program applications to maximize their chances of receiving financial support. Furthermore, students are advised to consider part-time work opportunities available on or near campus, which are permitted under current visa regulations for international students. UCL also offers financial advice services to help students budget effectively and manage their expenses throughout their studies. Overall, there are numerous pathways to finance studies in human rights at UCL, and proactive engagement with the university's financial aid resources can significantly ease the financial burden of postgraduate education.

The MSc Human Rights at University College London offers an in-depth exploration of the fundamental principles and contemporary issues surrounding human rights and social justice. This program aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the legal, political, and ethical frameworks that underpin human rights practices worldwide. Students will engage critically with key topics such as international human rights law, the role of governmental and non-governmental organizations, human rights activism, and the challenges faced in protecting vulnerable populations. The coursework integrates theory and practical application, often including case studies, policy analysis, and opportunities for advocacy and fieldwork. Faculty members are leading experts in the field, providing students with access to cutting-edge research and professional insights. The program encourages interdisciplinary learning, drawing on perspectives from law, political science, anthropology, and sociological studies. Students also have the option to participate in internships, seminars, and conferences that enhance their practical skills and professional networks. Graduates of the MSc Human Rights program are well-prepared for careers in international organizations, human rights advocacy, policy analysis, legal practice, and research. The university’s central London location ensures proximity to numerous NGOs, government bodies, and international institutions, offering valuable opportunities for engagement and employment. Overall, the MSc Human Rights at UCL is designed to foster critical thinking, rigorous analysis, and active engagement with pressing human rights issues at local, national, and global levels, making it a highly relevant program for those committed to promoting justice and equality worldwide.