Governance and Human Rights
The Master of Arts in Governance and Human Rights is a specialised graduate programme designed for working professionals seeking to advance their expertise in international governance, human rights protection, and development cooperation. Offered as a part-time, English-taught distance-learning degree, the programme combines academic knowledge with practical tools, allowing students to engage deeply with global human rights challenges while maintaining their professional commitments. Structured over four semesters and admitting students exclusively in the winter semester, the programme equips learners with key skills in project organisation, policy analysis, and governance principles.
Located at Leuphana University Lüneburg and delivered largely online, this innovative master’s course offers international accessibility and flexibility. Students benefit from a strong focus on applied learning, gaining insight into state structures, development aid, project design, and rights-based approaches. By connecting governance theory with real-world human rights practice, the programme prepares graduates to take on influential roles in NGOs, international organisations, public institutions, and civil society initiatives worldwide.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Master of Arts (M.A.)
- Standard period of study: 4 semesters
- Location: Lüneburg (online distance learning)
- Study Type: Graduate (part-time, international)
- Admission semester: Winter semester only
- Area of study: International Relations, Political Science, Development Co-operation
- Admission modus: Local admission restriction
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Governance & Human Rights
- Introduction to Governance Principles
- Fundamentals of Human Rights
- Global Context of Development Cooperation
- State Structures & Policy Formation
Semester 2 – Applied Human Rights Practice
- Project Design & Planning
- Campaign Work & Advocacy
- Development Aid Strategies
- Governance Mechanisms in Practice
Semester 3 – Advanced Analytical Training
- Project Organisation & Implementation
- Human Rights Monitoring & Evaluation
- International Legal Frameworks
- Research Concept Development
Semester 4 – Master’s Thesis & Applied Project Work
- Independent Research Project
- Human Rights Field Analysis or Case Study
- Thesis Presentation & Documentation
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this programme are prepared for roles in international organisations, human rights institutions, NGOs, development agencies, policy think tanks, Ministry-level governance bodies, and advocacy groups. Typical positions include human rights officer, governance consultant, development project manager, policy advisor, campaign coordinator, and humanitarian programme officer.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing the Master of Arts in Governance and Human Rights means joining a programme that connects academic depth with real-world application. Through flexible online learning, students access expert faculty, interactive modules, and global perspectives while continuing their professional work. The curriculum is designed to help professionals strengthen their analytical, organisational, and leadership skills.
The programme’s strong focus on governance systems, development cooperation, and rights-based methodologies equips students with the tools needed to influence policy and practice at national and international levels. With its international orientation and practical relevance, this degree prepares graduates to drive meaningful impact in global human rights and governance work.
Contact Information
Leuphana University Lüneburg – Student Advisory Service
Universitätsallee 1
21335 Lüneburg, Germany
Tel: +49 4131 677-2277
Fax: +49 4131 677-1430
Email: studierendenservice@leuphana.de
Programme Contact – Leuphana Professional School
Dr. Annika Weinert-Brieger (Programme Coordination)
Prof. Dr. Till Patrik Holterhus MLE. LL.M. (Programme Director)
Universitätsallee 1
21335 Lüneburg, Germany
Tel: +49 4131 677-7921
Email: gahr@leuphana.de
International Office – Leuphana University Lüneburg
Universitätsallee 1
21335 Lüneburg, Germany
Tel: +49 4131 677-1070
Fax: +49 4131 677-1075
Email: international@leuphana.de
