A multi-disciplinary scheme combining insights from the fields of development studies, politics/political theory and international law, Development and Human Rights examines the comparatively new interface between human rights and international development and is offered in association with the School of Law.

It includes compulsory modules on human rights theory, on international human rights law and on rights-based approaches to international development. Students take two additional compulsory modules offered by the Department of Political and Cultural Studies and one elective module. MA students must also complete a dissertation. The scheme is intended primarily for students with career interests in international development and/or the international promotion of human rights.

Programme Details

Part I of the MA consists of 120-credits of compulsory and optional modules that provide training in research skills and theory, allow you to study particular topics with experts in the field, and prepare you for the 60-credit Dissertation which comprises Part II of the scheme. The MA can be pursued full-time or part-time. Full-time students complete Part I over two semesters, in one academic year; part-time students normally complete Part I over four semesters, in two years.

The compulsory modules are:

• Human Rights, Humanitarian Intervention and Global Justice
• Rights Based Approaches to Development
• International Human Rights Law (offered by Law School)
• Conceptual Issues in the Social Sciences
• Governance: From State Formation to Global Governance

Weblink to Masters modules in Political and Cultural Studies.

Entry Requirements

We welcome students from all over the world with a range of backgrounds and qualifications. The typical entry requirement is a minimum of a lower second class BA degree (with an overall average of at least 55%) or equivalent, in Politics, International Relations or a related subject area.  Overseas students are expected to possess and IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent, if English is not their first language. Relevant work experience is also taken into consideration.

Career Opportunities

Our graduates are employed in diverse and dynamic vocations such as government and politics, foreign affairs and diplomatic corps; humanitarian organisations; marketing, sales and advertising; commercial, industrial and public Sectors; education; business, law and finance; art, design and culture; journalism, media and PR.

For enquiries, please contact Dr Gerard Clarke.