Human Rights University College Dublin

Overview

The Human Rights M.Sc. at University College Dublin offers an advanced exploration of the theoretical and practical mechanisms used to protect fundamental freedoms worldwide. Students engage with the complex interplay between international law and political action to understand how rights are upheld or restricted. This programme is designed to equip future leaders with the analytical tools required for high-level research and policy development.

Why Human Rights at University College Dublin?

Choosing this programme means joining the oldest and largest school of its kind in Ireland, which is ranked within the global top 100 for politics. The faculty consists of world-renowned experts who bring diverse international perspectives to the classroom. Students benefit from a highly interactive learning environment that includes class debates on pressing global issues and group projects. Furthermore, the university's strong commitment to UN Sustainable Development Goals ensures that the curriculum remains relevant to modern global challenges.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: EUR 22600 per year
• European fee: EUR 10350 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum balances core theoretical foundations with specialised elective options. Students can choose to complete either a research thesis or a professional internship to conclude their studies. Modules may include:

• Politics of Human Rights
• Research Design
• Human Rights Law and Equality
• Theory of Human Rights
• Law of the ECHR
• International Refugee Law
• Politics of Development
• Peace & Conflict Studies
• Gender & the Political System

Careers with Human Rights

Graduates are prepared for influential roles across the public, private, and non-profit sectors. Many alumni secure positions as human rights specialists, field officers, or child protection advisers within major international organisations. The programme provides a strong foundation for those aiming to work with government agencies, NGOs, or in investigative journalism. Recent graduates have successfully found employment with prestigious bodies such as the United Nations, Amnesty International, Oxfam, and Médecins sans Frontières. The option to undertake a monitored internship further enhances employability by providing direct professional experience in the field.