Across the world, there is a massive array of specialist degrees you can do if you wish to further your knowledge of Human Rights. Some undergraduate degrees may contain modules in Human Rights, but the vast majority of such courses are postgraduate. And although these are often offered in English, for any Spanish speaking readers we have gathered five courses specialising in Human Rights from highly ranked universities which are taught in Spanish. In the field of human rights, speaking more than two languages is a major advantage. Not only would one of these degrees enable you to work in national human rights organisations in Spanish-speaking countries or regional organisations such as the Inter-American human rights system, but Spanish is also one of the UN languages, and as such may be a requirement for many jobs. Plus, even if it isn’t a requirement, fluency in a second language may put you above other candidates who don’t have such a skill. Thus, studying one of these degrees could be extremely beneficial for your future!
University of Valencia, Spain: Master’s in Human Rights, Peace and Sustainable Development
(Máster Universitario en Derechos Humanos, Paz y Desarrollo Sostenible)
This Master’s degree covers a detailed analysis of the most significant aspects of human rights, with a focus on the issues of peace and non-violence, and human sustainable development. Such subjects are interdependent and complementary, and thus encourage the student to consider all aspects of human rights in the modern world. The programme offers specialised training oriented towards different areas, including NGO workers, national public functions, journalism professionals, and volunteer trainers. The course offers two different pathways depending on the student’s primary interest: professional (which includes an external work placement) or academic-researching (which includes a module on introduction to research).
This course is based at the University of Valencia, entails completion of 60 ECTS, and is taught in Spanish. Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent undergraduate degree in a related discipline.
University of Granada, Spain: Master’s in The Culture of Peace, Conflicts, Education and Human Rights
(Máster Universitario en Cultura de Paz, Conflictos, Educación y Derechos Humanos)
This Master’s degree aims to enable students to understand and critically analyse the concept of “cultures of peace”. Students are encouraged to look at a wide range of perspectives, such as sociological, political, psychological, educational, and gender theory. There is also an emphasis on the practical – students learn how to identify, track, determine and resolve conflicts across the globe. This area of research includes quantitative and qualitative analyses, and students are provided with the methodological tools to be able to contribute effectively to the construction of peace in different contexts.
This course is based at the University of Granada, but is an interdisciplinary Master’s offered jointly by four prestigious institutions: The University of Granada’s Peace Institute, the University of Córdoba’s UNESCO Department, the University of Malaga’s Department of Education and the University of Cadiz’s Department of Education. It consists of 60 ECTS and is taught in Spanish. Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent undergraduate degree in a related field.
University of Barcelona, Spain: Master’s in Citizenship and Human Rights: Ethics and Politics
(Máster de Ciudadanía y Derechos Humanos: Ética y Política)
This Master’s degree covers ethics, politics and philosophy of law, providing students with the knowledge and capabilities to tackle issues surrounding human rights, democratic policies, multiculturalism, and identity. The programme has a dual focus of research and professionalism – allowing students to gain greater insights into these issues from an academic standpoint, whilst also preparing them for a career in this field. Thus, students have the opportunity to conduct research, as well as to complete placements in institutions of their choosing.
This course is primarily based at the University of Barcelona, but is run with the University of Girona. It entails 60 ECTS, and it must be noted that the language of instruction is not entirely in Spanish. Some knowledge of English and Catalan is a must. Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent undergraduate degree in a related discipline.
National University of San Martin, Argentina: Master’s in Human Rights and Social Policies
(Magíster en Derechos Humanos y Políticas Sociales)
This Master’s degree investigates human rights and social policies, examining conceptual frameworks as well as implications with regards to social justice. The course provides a deep understanding of a wide range of human rights issues, including their historical evolution, international and national frameworks, gender equality, social policy, children’s rights, migration, indigenous peoples’ rights, and security policies. With an emphasis on academic development, the programme offers research and fieldwork, including workshops on how to conduct and report on successful research.
The course is based at the National University of San Martin, and is taught in Spanish, but may require some reading and comprehension in English. Applicants should hold a higher university degree in a related discipline.
University of Antioquia, Colombia: Specialization in Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law
(Especialización en Derechos Humanos y Derecho Internacional Humanitario)
This specialisation is a professional degree, aimed at training individuals from different areas in the fields of human rights and international humanitarian law. The specialisation will provide students with a theoretical and practical understanding of human rights and humanitarian law, from international and national perspectives. It will also provide a sociological reflection, and an ability to critically interpret human and social problems in line with various developed human rights theories. The programme will supply students with the analytical tools necessary to address problems of violence, armed conflict and peace agreements, and allow them to engage in finding solutions for such issues.
The course is based at the University of Antioquia, and is taught in Spanish. Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent undergraduate degree in a related discipline, or professional experience/certification in a related field.
