Human Rights London School of Economics and Political Science

Overview

The Human Rights MSc at the London School of Economics and Political Science offers a comprehensive examination of the legal, social, and philosophical frameworks that underpin global justice. This interdisciplinary programme encourages students to engage with the most pressing contemporary debates regarding international standards and structures. By blending theoretical insights with practical applications, the curriculum prepares graduates to address complex issues such as genocide, humanitarian intervention, and labour rights.

Why Human Rights at London School of Economics and Political Science?

Students benefit from being part of the Department of Sociology, which is ranked first in the UK according to the Guardian University Guide 2026. The programme is supported by LSE Human Rights, a transdisciplinary hub that hosts exclusive masterclasses, seminars, and public events featuring world-leading practitioners. This environment provides a unique platform for critical research and scholarship, connecting students with a global network of experts and activists dedicated to social and political change.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: GBP 33000 per year
• National fee: GBP 23300 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum consists of compulsory core units and a selection of optional courses, culminating in an original research project. Modules may include:

• Legal and Critical Approaches to International Human Rights
• Sociology of Human Rights
• Human Rights Dissertation

Optional thematic areas often cover:

• Genocide
• Humanitarian Intervention
• Militarism
• War and Warfare
• Religion, Culture and Human Rights
• Transitional Justice

Careers with Human Rights

Graduates from this programme are well-equipped for influential roles in advocacy, policymaking, and research. Many alumni secure positions within international organisations, government agencies, and non-governmental organisations focused on civil liberties, welfare, and refugee protection. Common career paths include working for specialised agencies dedicated to women's rights or children's rights, as well as pursuing advanced academic research. The department provides direct access to a professional network of alumni working in the humanitarian and legal sectors.