Studying human rights abroad
What is human rights?
Human rights is the study of the basic rights and freedoms that belong to every individual, regardless of nationality, religion, or background. It examines laws, policies, and practices that protect people from injustice, discrimination, and abuse. The subject covers topics such as civil liberties, equality, social justice, international law, and humanitarian issues.
Human rights draws on knowledge from law, political science, sociology, and history. As a human rights student, you will explore how legal systems protect individuals, how societies respond to violations, and what measures can promote fairness and equality. Your studies may take you from classrooms to courts, international organisations, and communities around the world.
Why study human rights abroad?
Studying human rights in another country allows you to see different legal systems and social policies in action. You could visit international courts, participate in NGO projects, or observe human rights campaigns in local communities. These experiences give a deeper understanding than studying alone in a classroom.
Learning in different countries also helps you develop cross-cultural communication skills and form connections with lawyers, activists, and policymakers worldwide. This global perspective is valuable in understanding how human rights are protected and challenged in diverse contexts.
What you will study
Human rights degrees often combine theory with practical experience. Key areas of study can include:
- International Human Rights Law – studying treaties, conventions, and global protections
- Civil and Political Rights – exploring freedoms of speech, assembly, and equality
- Social Justice and Development – addressing poverty, education, and healthcare
- Humanitarian Law – understanding protection in conflict and disaster situations
- Policy and Advocacy – learning to create and promote human rights programs
- Research Methods – collecting and analysing data on social and legal issues
Many programs also include fieldwork, internships, or placements with NGOs, UN agencies, and human rights organisations.
Related subjects you might also like
- Law
- Political Science
- Sociology
- International Relations
- Public Policy
Accreditation
At undergraduate level, you may graduate with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Human Rights, International Law, or a related social science field. Some programs combine human rights studies with politics, development, or legal studies.
At postgraduate level, options include a Master of Arts (MA), Master of Research (MRes), or a specialized LLM in Human Rights. Specialisations can focus on refugee law, social justice, or international advocacy. A PhD may be necessary for research or academic careers.
Professional accreditation may also be available for human rights practitioners, legal advisors, or policy consultants through recognised international organisations.
Careers
A degree in human rights can lead to careers in law, research, policy, advocacy, and international development. Graduates may work as human rights officers, legal advisors, NGO staff, or policy analysts for governments or international agencies.
Other roles include humanitarian aid coordinators, social justice researchers, compliance officers, or educators. Research opportunities exist in universities, think tanks, and international organisations.
Beyond these roles, human rights graduates may become campaigners, journalists, or community outreach leaders. The skills you gain in advocacy, research, and cross-cultural communication are valuable globally, giving you the chance to work on projects that support justice and equality worldwide.