The MSc in Human Rights is a one-year intensive course that prepares you for a career in human rights research, policy or advocacy in international organisations, governmental and non-governmental bodies, or academia. There is also a two-year part time option.
You will explore the theory, politics and law of human rights and examine the mechanisms and limitations of national and international action to protect human rights.
You will either complete a research dissertation or undertake a monitored internship.
What Will I Learn?
To thoroughly familiarise students with cutting edge issues in the broad area of human rights
allow students participate constructively in topical debates on human rights
develop methodological research expertise
develop oral presentation skills
develop student's research/writing skills
enhance group work skills
facilitate students' professional development to work in HR policy
Career & Graduate Study Opportunities
Graduates work with international private-sector employers, government agencies and NGOs as:
Human Rights Specialist
Field Officer
Human Rights Consultant
Child Protection Adviser
Public Information Officer
Journalist
Recent graduates of MSc in Human Rights now work in:
Front Line Defenders
United Nations, New York and Geneva
Amnesty International
Médecins sans Frontières
PLAN Ireland
Irish Aid
Oxfam
*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please
Expected October 2025
More details
Start date
September 2025
UCD College of Social Sciences and Law
BELFIELD,
Dublin,
Republic of Ireland
A primary degree with at least Second Class Honours Grade 1 (2H1) in a relevant subject such as political science, international relations, social science, sociology, history, geography, economics, global studies, public policy, development studies, EU studies, law. 2H1 is equivalent to 60 per cent, B minus or 3.08 GPA - in American system: B or 3.00 GPA.
Your application will be considered on its individual merits and relevant professional experience will also be taken into account.
English language requirements: applicants whose first language is not English should have met TOEFL, IELTs, or computer-based TOEFL requirements (600, 6.5, or 250 respectively), or the Cambridge English Test (Certificate in Advanced English at a minimum of Grade B, or Certificate of Proficiency in English at Grade C). Applicants who obtained a previous degree from an English-speaking university may be exempted from this requirement.
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.
UCD is the most international and diverse university in Ireland, and is the destination of choice for over 10,400 international students.
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