MA Human Rights - Political Science (Standard Route) / Course details

Who is responsible for the protection of human rights in world politics? Can there be space for human rights in world affairs: Are humans rights Western? 

These theoretical and practical concerns form the central focus of the course and are addressed through the compulsory course units.  

This 'standard route' course is designed for students that want to enter careers in fields related to government and non-governmental organisations, as well as teaching, journalism or any career where advanced knowledge of human rights coupled with an advanced capacity to communicate effectively will be an advantage.  

This course draws on recognised expertise and appeal particularly to those with an interest in the political and ethical issues that arise from widespread human rights violations globally. The course delivers an advanced, critical, interdisciplinary and systematic understanding of human rights issues within a global context. 

This interdisciplinary degree allows you to gain exposure to developments in international politics, political theory, and law in order to better understand the complex global environment in which human rights claims are made.

Part-time students complete the full-time course over two years. There are no evening or weekend course units available on the part-time route.  

You must first check the schedule of the compulsory units and then select your optional units to suit your requirements.  

Updated timetable information will be available from mid-August and you will have the opportunity to discuss your unit choices during induction week with your course director.

Courses are taught through a combination of methods including interactive lectures and seminars. You are usually assessed by extended essays, but assessments might also include oral presentations and formal examinations. You will also write a dissertation of between 12,000 and 15,000 words.

As a School of Social Sciences student, you will be supported by first-class resources.   

As well as access to networked study areas and one of the best-resourced academic libraries in the country, The University of Manchester Library .