Human Rights - Law or Political Science Pathway (Research Route)
The Master of Arts (MA) in Human Rights - Law or Political Science Pathway (Research Route) at the University of Manchester is a one-year, full-time program that offers students an in-depth understanding of human rights law and political theory. The program offers two pathways: law and political science, allowing students to specialize in either legal or political approaches to human rights. Students will engage with critical issues such as international human rights law, political activism, and human rights advocacy.
This research-focused program emphasizes independent study and critical analysis, preparing students for careers in human rights organizations, government agencies, or international law firms. Graduates are equipped to address human rights challenges on a global scale, working towards justice and equality in various political and legal contexts.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Master of Arts (MA) in Human Rights - Law or Political Science Pathway (Research Route)
- Degree Type: Master of Arts (MA)
- Duration: 1 Year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 15th January 2026
- Location: University of Manchester, United Kingdom
- Field of Study: International Law
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in Human Rights and International Law
- Introduction to Human Rights Law and Political Theory
- International Human Rights Law and Global Governance
- Politics of Human Rights: Theories and Applications
- Comparative Human Rights: Regional Perspectives
- Research Methods in Law and Political Science
Semester 2 – Advanced Research in Human Rights and Policy
- Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law
- Political Economy of Human Rights and Social Justice
- Human Rights in Conflict Zones: Theory and Practice
- Research Project: Exploring Human Rights Issues
- Ethics and Challenges in Human Rights Research
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Human Rights – Law or Political Science Pathway (Research Route) MA program at the University of Manchester will be well-prepared for careers in international law, human rights organizations, and policy research. With a solid foundation in human rights law, international politics, and research methodologies, graduates can pursue roles as human rights advocates, policy advisors, international law consultants, researchers, and NGO managers. Employers include international organizations, government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), research institutes, and public policy firms. Graduates may also choose to further their studies with a PhD in human rights, international law, or political science.
Why Choose This Program
The Human Rights - Law or Political Science Pathway MA program at the University of Manchester offers a unique combination of theoretical foundations and practical research in the field of human rights and international law. This full-time, on-campus program is ideal for those seeking to explore human rights issues from both a legal and political science perspective, with the option to specialize in one of the two pathways. The research route allows students to delve deeply into human rights challenges, using advanced research methods to address real-world issues. Students benefit from the university's global network and strong connections with human rights organizations, preparing them to contribute to international policy development, legal advocacy, and human rights protection worldwide.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +44 (0)161 306 6000
Email: admissions@manchester.ac.uk
Address: University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, United Kingdom
