Human Rights

The Bachelor of Human Rights at the University of Sydney offers students a comprehensive understanding of the complex issues surrounding human rights and social justice in a global context. This program is designed to provide students with a multidisciplinary perspective, combining insights from law, politics, history, and social sciences to explore the origins, development, and current challenges faced by human rights frameworks worldwide. Students will examine key topics such as human rights law, ethical considerations, international diplomacy, social activism, and the roles of various institutions in promoting and protecting human rights.

Throughout the degree, students gain critical analytical skills, enabling them to assess policies, advocate for marginalized communities, and contribute to policy development. The program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical skills, including research, negotiation, and effective communication. Opportunities for internships and fieldwork are integrated into the curriculum, allowing students to engage directly with human rights organizations and initiatives, gaining real-world experience.

The curriculum also focuses on contemporary issues such as refugee rights, gender equality, Indigenous rights, and economic justice, preparing graduates to address pressing human rights challenges. The interdisciplinary nature of the program ensures students develop a well-rounded perspective, equipping them to work in diverse settings, including NGOs, government agencies, international organizations, and academic institutions. With a strong emphasis on social justice and ethical responsibility, students are encouraged to become advocates for positive change and to approach human rights issues with sensitivity and respect.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Human Rights program at the University of Sydney are well-equipped to contribute meaningfully to efforts aimed at safeguarding human dignity, promoting equality, and fostering sustainable development. The program’s rigorous academic curriculum, combined with practical engagement, ensures that students graduate with the knowledge, skills, and commitment necessary to make impactful contributions toward a more just and equitable world.

The University of Sydney offers a comprehensive program in Human Rights designed to equip students with a deep understanding of the legal, ethical, and political dimensions of human rights issues worldwide. This interdisciplinary degree combines insights from law, politics, international relations, sociology, and other related fields, enabling graduates to critically analyze human rights challenges and contribute effectively to policy development, advocacy, and human rights protection initiatives. The program covers a broad spectrum of topics including international frameworks and treaties, human rights law, social justice, human rights activism, and the role of international organizations. Students will explore case studies related to genocides, conflicts, refugee crises, discrimination, and inequality, fostering a nuanced understanding of contemporary human rights dilemmas. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical skills such as research, negotiation, and advocacy, preparing students for careers in NGOs, governmental bodies, international agencies, or academia. Throughout their studies, students will engage with leading scholars and practitioners, participate in internships, and undertake research projects that contribute to ongoing debates and developments in the field. The program aims to develop critical thinking, ethical judgment, and effective communication skills, ensuring graduates can address complex human rights issues ethically and effectively. By the completion of this program, students will be well-positioned to make meaningful contributions to the promotion and protection of human rights domestically and internationally, advocating for justice, equality, and dignity for all individuals across the globe.

• Bachelor degree with major in the humanities or social sciences
• or Bachelor of Laws

The University of Sydney offers various funding opportunities for students enrolled in Human Rights programs, including scholarships, grants, bursaries, and financial aid options designed to support both domestic and international students. These funding sources aim to reduce the financial burden on students and enable them to focus on their academic and research pursuits in the field of human rights. Scholarships are available based on merit, need, and specific criteria related to the program such as academic achievement, community involvement, or research interests. For example, the University provides the Sydney Scholars Award, which offers financial assistance to high-achieving students entering undergraduate programs, including those in human rights fields. Additionally, postgraduate students may access research grants and scholarships such as the University of Sydney Postgraduate Research Scholarships (UPRS), which cover tuition fees and provide a stipend for living expenses. Government funding options, such as Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) for eligible Australian students, also reduce the overall cost of education and make it more accessible. International students can explore scholarships specifically for international applicants, including the International Undergraduate Scholarship and the Sydney Achievers International Scholarships, which offer partial tuition fee waivers. Furthermore, students are encouraged to seek external funding from charitable foundations, industry bodies, and international organizations that support human rights education and research. The university's financial aid office provides comprehensive guidance and assistance in applying for these funding sources, ensuring students are aware of all available opportunities. It is important for students to meet application deadlines and provide relevant documentation to qualify for the funding programs. Overall, the University of Sydney is committed to providing accessible education in human rights through a variety of flexible financing options, supporting students in their academic and professional development in this crucial field.

The Bachelor of Human Rights at the University of Sydney offers students a comprehensive understanding of human rights issues from a global and interdisciplinary perspective. This program is designed to equip students with the theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and critical awareness necessary to advocate for justice, equality, and human dignity in diverse contexts. Covering a broad range of topics, the coursework includes studies in international human rights law, social and political theories, ethical considerations, and contemporary human rights challenges such as refugee rights, indigenous rights, gender equality, and freedom of expression. The program emphasizes experiential learning and provides opportunities for students to engage with community organizations, participate in internships, and undertake research projects that address real-world issues.

Students have the opportunity to explore the historical evolution of human rights, the role of international institutions like the United Nations, and contemporary debates surrounding human rights violations and their prevention. The program encourages critical analysis of policy frameworks and legal instruments that protect human rights globally. It also emphasizes the importance of cultural sensitivity and ethical considerations when advocating for change across different societies. The curriculum supports interdisciplinary approaches, drawing from law, political science, sociology, and international relations.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Human Rights are prepared for careers in advocacy, public policy, international development, non-governmental organizations, and human rights monitoring and reporting. They also develop skills in research, communication, and critical thinking, which are essential for addressing complex human rights issues. The program is suitable for individuals passionate about social justice, committed to making a positive impact locally and internationally, and interested in pursuing postgraduate studies in human rights, law, or related fields.

The university emphasizes research-led teaching and collaboration with external organizations, ensuring students gain practical insights alongside academic knowledge. With a strong focus on social justice and human dignity, the program aims to cultivate informed, compassionate, and proactive professionals capable of contributing to the global human rights agenda. The University of Sydney’s Human Rights program is recognized for its rigorous academic standards and its commitment to fostering a new generation of human rights advocates dedicated to promoting equity and justice worldwide.