MA Global Human Rights and Social Justice in Practice

Please check the Sheffield Hallam University website for the latest information.

Course Summary

- Gain practical skills to tackle global human rights challenges.

- Explore key topics like climate justice, refugee rights and gender equality.

- Engage in applied projects through real-world opportunities.

- Learn from leading practitioners and interdisciplinary experts.

This masters equips you to advance human rights and social justice globally. Delivered by the Institute of Law and Justice and supported by the renowned Helena Kennedy Centre for International Justice, we’ll combine rigorous academic learning with real-world application. When you graduate you’ll be well-prepared for roles in advocacy, policymaking, NGOs and global organisations.

How You Learn

Our MA in Global Human Rights and Social Justice in Practice blends academic theory with practical application, focusing on ethical and inclusive practices informed by the latest research and industry developments. You’ll explore critical topics – from environmental sustainability to forced migration – while developing practical expertise through hands-on projects and applied learning opportunities.

We use a dynamic and interactive approach to teaching and learning, designed to help you develop both critical thinking skills and practical expertise. The course blends theory with hands-on learning and real-world human rights dilemmas – from case-based learning, simulations and advocacy exercises to applied research opportunities through our Justice Hubs.

Our teaching philosophy emphasises active, experiential and reflective learning, preparing you to work in diverse and evolving professional environments.

Key themes

The course offers a comprehensive exploration of human rights, beginning with the foundations of human rights and progressing to contemporary issues in global human rights and social justice. You'll delve into critical topics such as gender, equality and discrimination – as well as the pressing challenges surrounding refugee rights and forced migration.

The curriculum also emphasises the importance of environmental rights, sustainability and climate justice, reflecting the growing global focus on these interconnected areas. Additionally, the intersection of global health and human rights is a key area of study, providing insights into how health policies and practices impact human rights worldwide.

To put theory into practice, you’ll undertake an applied project or dissertation, allowing you to focus on a topic that resonates with your interests and aspirations.

Our teaching philosophy is rooted in active, collaborative and reflective learning. This approach enhances your critical thinking skills while applying your knowledge to tackle complex human rights challenges in real-world contexts, ensuring your learning experience is both meaningful and impactful.

Applied learning

Live Projects

You’ll work on real-world human rights projects through the Helena Kennedy Centre for International Justice and the Justice Hubs. These initiatives allow you to collaborate with experts, advocacy groups and external partners to make a tangible impact.

The sorts of projects the Centre works on include gender-based violence, global health, environmental rights and sustainability, as well as working with refugees.

Networking Opportunities

Engage with a network of key professionals, researchers and industry leaders. Attend careers events, guest lectures, seminars and speaker events delivered by practitioners who are shaping the future of human rights. These opportunities provide valuable industry insights and help you build connections.