Note: This article was published in 2017. In the meanwhile, all universities have introduced tuition fees for international students. At some universities, students from EEA/EU may still be able to study without paying tuition. It might be a better choice to visit our more up-to-date directory of masters in human rights and explore what scholarships are available.
Master of Laws in International Human Rights Law (Lund University, Sweden)
No other Masters of Laws program combines resources from a prestigious law school and an implementation-oriented human rights institution such as the Raoul Wallenbery Institute. Alumni career prospects are with international organizations such as the UN, NGOs, private law firms, and public authorities. This program requires a thesis with no internship option. Lund University has partner universities in over 70 countries and is ranked among the world’s top 100 universities.
Master of Philosophy in the Theory and Practice of Human Rights (University of Oslo, Norway)
These two master’s degree programs require completion of nine courses and the final part consists of a written thesis through which the student will acquire methodological and practical skills well suited to match a growing demand for professionals with a background in human rights. Students are given opportunities to do practical work like mock trials and internships while discussions human rights through social and cultural practices. Former students have become employees as human rights field workers, judges, researchers and teachers.
Master in Human Rights and Multiculturalism (Buskerud and Vestfold University College, Norway)
This is an interdisciplinary program unique in Europe, focusing on human rights and culture at local, national, regional and international levels. The program is designed to accommodate students with degrees in different academic disciplines. Because human rights knowledge and awareness of the public issues are crucial elements in the realization of human rights, the study of human rights education and human rights in professional practice are important elements in the program. The completion of the program requires a master’s thesis with no internship route.
Master of Social Sciences in International Human Rights Law (Åbo Akademi University, Finland)
This program is designed to prepare its graduates for challenging human rights careers in international and non-governmental organizations and public administration. The Department of Law is closely linked with the Institute for Human Rights, which is a renowned unit at Åbo Akademi University. Elective courses can be taken from both the Department of Women’s Studies and Turku
Master of Social Sciences in Ethnic Relations, Cultural Diversity and Integration (University of Helsinki Finland)
The ERI program includes human rights aspects, covering topics such as migration, integration, identity, the relationship between minorities and majorities, nationalism and prejudice. As a graduate of a Master of Social Science students are qualified to work in both the public as well as the private sector, in governmental administration or in various types of organizations such as ministries, important public institutions, NGO headquarters and the faculties in the fields of education, law, social sciences, arts and theology.
