Course details

Summary

The Master of Professional Studies in International Relations and Human Rights at the University of Auckland is a one-year full-time graduate programme, usually begun after four years of university study. Students undertake specialised study of key issues and institutions of world politics and international human rights protection. The programme includes both taught courses and a dissertation.

The degree can equip students with the following skills, all of which can be advantageous for careers in the field:

• Understanding of how the United Nations and international courts promote human rights, and how governments and other actors can help or obstruct this.
• Knowledge of the powers and limitations of the UN Human Rights Commission, Human Rights Council, Human Rights Committee, and the High Commissioner for Human Rights.
• Understanding of the Just War Doctrine and case studies of humanitarian intervention.
• Political analysis and research skills.
• Presentation and communication skills.
• Acquaintance with staff and students with similar interests.

Degree structure

The degree programme is currently structured around a core course (POLITICS 750 International Relations and Human Rights), a 10,000 word dissertation, and usually five additional courses chosen mainly from Political Studies but also from relevant offerings from Development Studies, Sociology, Law, Economics, Philosophy, and International Business.

Career opportunities

for graduates The programme has attracted students from Australia, Canada, China, Timor-Leste, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Iran, Kenya, Kosovo, Norway, Philippines, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, The Netherlands, Tonga, United Arab Emirates, and United States. Our graduates have careers in NGOs, government service, media, university teaching and law firms.

Further study options

Doctor of Philosophy
Doctor of Education

Entry criteria

Requirements for entry are either a four-year bachelors degree, or a bachelors (honours) degree, or a bachelor’s degree combined with either a professional qualification equivalent to one year’s advanced study or at least three years’ relevant professional experience

English language requirements:
IELTS 6.5; TOEFL (iBT) 90; TOEFL (paper-based) 575; CAE or CPE 176; PTE 58; MELAB 85.