Human Rights Studies
The Human Rights Studies Master of Arts program at Columbia University is a rigorous one-year interdisciplinary degree that prepares students to critically examine the philosophical foundations, legal frameworks, and social implications of human rights on a global scale. Drawing from fields such as law, political science, history, sociology, and ethics, the program provides students with the intellectual tools to evaluate how human rights norms are constructed, interpreted, and implemented across diverse contexts. Through both theoretical inquiry and applied research, students analyze pressing global issues including displacement, inequality, civil liberties, and humanitarian intervention.
Administered by the Institute for the Study of Human Rights (ISHR), the program offers a vibrant academic environment supported by expert faculty, extensive field networks, and partnerships with international organizations. Located in New York City, Columbia gives students unparalleled access to the United Nations, advocacy NGOs, and policy institutions. The curriculum fosters independent thinking, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and practical skills in policy analysis and rights-based research. Whether preparing for doctoral study, legal practice, or policy work, students graduate with a strong foundation in the values, institutions, and challenges that shape the global human rights landscape.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Human Rights Studies
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 14 March 2026
- Location: Columbia University, United States
- Field of Study: International Law
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in Human Rights
- History and Theory of Human Rights
- International Human Rights Law and Institutions
- Research Methods in Human Rights Studies
- Elective: Gender, Race, and Justice
Semester 2 – Advocacy and Global Applications
- Humanitarian Intervention and Global Ethics
- Economic and Social Rights in Practice
- Seminar: Rights-Based Fieldwork and Case Studies
- Capstone Project in Human Rights Policy
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program pursue impactful careers in international organizations, human rights advocacy groups, governmental agencies, and policy research institutes. Many take on roles in NGOs, legal advocacy centers, and humanitarian aid organizations, focusing on issues such as refugee protection, civil liberties, transitional justice, or minority rights. Others move into media, academia, or consulting, where they apply their expertise to raise awareness, shape public discourse, or advise on global human rights strategies. Columbia’s academic prestige, strong alumni network, and strategic location provide students with access to meaningful internships, career mentorship, and job placements in institutions committed to justice, accountability, and social equity.
Why Choose This Program
This program offers a deeply immersive academic journey into the theory, practice, and global relevance of human rights. Columbia University stands out for its interdisciplinary teaching, world-renowned faculty, and proximity to key international bodies and human rights institutions. Students benefit from a curriculum that combines critical analysis with real-world application, preparing them to tackle contemporary challenges through research, advocacy, and leadership. The program encourages a balance of intellectual rigor and ethical engagement, helping students to not only understand complex rights issues but also act effectively in response. For those committed to promoting justice and human dignity across borders, this degree provides the knowledge, tools, and networks to lead in the field of human rights.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 212 854 1754
Email: admissions@columbia.edu
Address: University of Columbia, Admissions Office, New York, NY, United States
