Human Rights and International Politics

Entry requirements

2.1 Hons (or non-UK equivalent) in Social Sciences, Politics Law, Geography, History, Development Studies, Humanities subjects such as Philosophy, English literature, Languages and Theology would also be acceptable.

Work experience may be considered and should show a connection to Human Rights, Politics or Law.

If your degree background is in a subject other than those listed above, please provide a personal statement with your application (500 words). Your personal statement should explain why you are applying for this degree, and demonstrate how you would benefit from studying it.

Months of entry

September

Course content

If you plan a career with non-governmental organisations, in related domestic, European and other global institutions, or in higher education, or want to learn more about human rights and international politics, this programme is designed for you. You will have the opportunity to participate in a five-day study trip to Geneva to visit the UN and non-governmental human rights organisations.

This interdisciplinary degree is designed to ensure you will encounter both legal and political perspectives, unlike most other human rights programmes which are exclusively focused on law. You can choose to focus on one domain more than the other. The programme draws on recognised expertise in international institutions, security, gender, political philosophy, theories of rights, and ethics and normative theory, as well as a wide variety of country and regional expertise.

You will benefit from access to a number of organisations within and beyond the University including: the Glasgow Human Rights Network, The Glasgow Refugee, Asylum & Migration Network, The Glasgow Centre for International Development and the annual International Human Rights Documentary Film Festival. International Relations at Glasgow is ranked 5th in the UK by the Guardian University Guide 2026.

Watch: Human Rights & International Politics MSc programme overview

This programme is uniquely interdisciplinary across law and social sciences with a strong focus on major contemporary challenges, aiding students in their preparation for future careers in the sector.

Career opportunities and pathways

Following completion of this programme, you will be equipped to enter the global workforce through many avenues. You will gain a variety of skills including presenting, group work and writing policy briefs and a depth of cross-sector knowledge.

Graduates have gone on to establish international careers working in human rights and international politics, from positions within government/ foreign ministry and intergovernmental organisations to non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and think tanks. Others have gone on to use their skillset in the private sector, or have gone on to complete PhD study and begin academic careers.

Information for international students

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic and Academic Online (not General Training)

• 6.5 overall with no subtest less than 6.0
• IELTS One Skill Retake Accepted
• Tests must have been taken within 2 years 5 months of programme start date. Applicants must meet the overall and subtest requirements using a single test.

We are proud of our diverse University community that includes students and staff from more than 140 different countries.

• Find out more about entry requirements and other country-specific information
• International student support & visas