Human Rights Studies in Politics, Law and Society
The Master’s program Human Rights Studies in Politics, Law and Society is an international full-time graduate degree offered by Fulda University of Applied Sciences. Designed for students seeking an interdisciplinary understanding of human rights, the program brings together perspectives from political science, law, sociology, and philosophy. Learners explore how human rights norms emerge, develop, and operate across societies, gaining analytical and practical skills relevant to global governance, legal frameworks, and social justice. The program is structured across four semesters and admits students exclusively in the winter semester.
Located in Fulda, a growing academic center with a strong focus on international social sciences, this master’s program emphasizes research, interdisciplinary dialogue, and critical engagement with current human rights issues. With students from diverse academic backgrounds and countries, the program offers an intellectually stimulating environment that reflects Germany’s commitment to human rights education. It is an excellent choice for those interested in careers addressing global inequalities, legal challenges, and human rights policy worldwide.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Master (M.A.)
- Standard period of study: 4 semesters
- Location: Fulda
- Study Type: Graduate (full-time, international)
- Admission semester: Winter semester only
- Area of study: International Relations, Sociology, Social Science, International Law
- Admission modus: Local admission restriction
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Human Rights Studies
- Introduction to Human Rights Theory
- Political and Legal Frameworks
- Sociological Approaches to Human Rights
- Academic Research and Methodology
Semester 2 – Interdisciplinary Perspectives & Applications
- International Human Rights Law
- Political Systems & Global Governance
- Social Movements and Civil Society
- Applied Research Project I
Semester 3 – Specialization & Advanced Research
- Human Rights in Practice
- Conflict, Inequality, and Global Justice
- Elective Modules (e.g., Migration, Environmental Justice, Development Policy)
- Applied Research Project II
Semester 4 – Master’s Thesis & Finalization
- Independent Research Thesis
- Academic Colloquium
- Professional Development & Presentation
Career Opportunities
Graduates are well-prepared for careers in international organizations, governmental institutions, NGOs, human rights advocacy, academic research, social policy institutions, and journalism. With strong interdisciplinary training, students develop the expertise necessary to address human rights issues across political, legal, and social dimensions.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing this master's program means engaging with an internationally oriented curriculum that integrates law, politics, and society. Students gain advanced analytical skills, practical insights into human rights challenges, and experience working in diverse teams.
With a strong academic community, interdisciplinary focus, and real-world relevance, the program offers excellent preparation for roles in global human rights environments.
Contact Information
Fulda University of Applied Sciences – Student Advisory Service
Zentrale Studienberatung (ZSB)
Leipziger Straße 123
36037 Fulda, Germany
Tel: +49 661 9640-1443
Email: studienberatung@hs-fulda.de
Programme Contact – Faculty of Social and Cultural Sciences
Leipziger Straße 123
36037 Fulda, Germany
Tel: +49 661 4594
Email: matthias.klemm@sk.hs-fulda.de
Contact Person: Prof. Dr. Matthias Klemm
International Office – Fulda University of Applied Sciences
Leipziger Straße 123
36037 Fulda, Germany
Tel: +49 661 9640-1450
Email: rothmann@hs-fulda.de
