

The Master of Science in Human Rights Policy and Practice at University of Gothenburg is a two-year, full-time program designed to provide students with a deep understanding of human rights issues from both a theoretical and practical perspective. The program covers topics such as international human rights law, policy advocacy, global justice, and human rights violations, preparing students to critically analyze the challenges faced by individuals and communities around the world. Students will gain practical experience through internships, fieldwork, and hands-on research projects focused on human rights practice and policy development.
Graduates of this program will be well-prepared for careers in human rights advocacy, policy analysis, and international development, with opportunities in non-governmental organizations (NGOs), governmental bodies, international organizations, and legal firms. University of Gothenburg provides access to expert faculty, a global network of practitioners, and a strong foundation in human rights law and policy, ensuring students are equipped to contribute meaningfully to global human rights efforts.
Semester 1 – Foundations of Human Rights Policy and Practice
• Introduction to Human Rights Law and Theories
• International Human Rights Instruments and Advocacy
• Global Social Justice and Human Rights Protection
• Research Methods in Human Rights Policy
Semester 2 – Advanced Human Rights Policy and Practice
• Human Rights in Conflict and Post-conflict Societies
• Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights
• Human Rights and Environmental Sustainability
• Elective Modules in Human Rights Policy
Semester 3 – Specialized Human Rights Policy and Practice
• Human Rights and International Relations
• Human Rights in International Development and Humanitarian Law
• Human Rights Advocacy and Activism
• Fieldwork/Research Project in Human Rights
Semester 4 – Master’s Thesis & Final Project
• Independent Research / Thesis
• Advanced Topics in Human Rights
• Final Presentation & Research Evaluation
Graduates of the Human Rights Policy and Practice program are prepared for careers in human rights advocacy, social justice, policy research, and international law. Many work for international organizations, human rights NGOs, government agencies, or public policy institutes as human rights officers, policy advisors, or advocacy specialists. The growing global focus on human rights and social justice ensures that graduates are in high demand to work on issues such as refugee rights, gender equality, and freedom of speech.
The Human Rights Policy and Practice program focuses on both the theoretical and practical aspects of human rights. Students will explore topics such as international human rights law, social justice movements, and global governance, gaining the skills needed to advocate for human rights in a variety of professional settings. The program’s combination of policy analysis, research, and hands-on experience prepares graduates to contribute to human rights work around the world.
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +46 31 786 0000
Email: info@gu.se
Address: University of Gothenburg, Vasagatan 1, 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden