Browse through the questions and answers below to find the information you need. If you have any questions left, please feel free to reach out to our programme coordinator Ms Ines Kalam.
The course program covers fundamental challenges of human rights as well as a selection of current issues. It pursues an interdisciplinary approach by taking the political, philosophical and legal dimensions of human rights into account.
In the first semester, all students will enrol in compulsory modules covering political, philosophical and legal foundations of human rights respectively. In the second semester, students will participate in a mandatory, interdisciplinary module on non-discrimination and elect four out of a variety of specialised modules that may cover topics such as Business and Human Rights, International Criminal Law, Transitional Justice, Migration and Human Rights, Human Rights Philosophy, and International Organizations. These courses will be complemented by a one-year-long seminar on Current Issues in Human Rights. The third semester focuses on modules covering methodological skills as well as soft skills for human rights work. The program is complemented by elective modules that will allow students to choose from a wide selection of complementary and language courses. In the fourth semester, students will be able to choose between two options to finish their degree: Either write one in-depth scientific thesis or combine a shorter thesis with a mandatory internship. Students will be counselled on their choice at the end of the second semester.
The module descriptions are available here.
The program is taught entirely in English. We do not require any German skills. If you plan to stay and work in Germany, however, we strongly recommend learning German during your studies to increase your chances of finding employment.
The program’s offices and the majority of classes are located at Andreij-Sacharow-Platz 1, 90403 Nürnberg. The M.A. Human Rights is on the second floor of the building. Bus connections can be researched on the website of the regional transportation service.
The M.A. Human Rights program consists of four six-month semesters, i.e. two years altogether. The first three semesters are dedicated to the coursework and require residence in the Nuremberg area. The last semester is devoted entirely to the thesis and can be completed from abroad. The program is offered as a full-time or part-time program. The part-time option covers eight semesters with half the courseload per semester compared to the full-time program.
Admission to the Master’s programme in Human Rights requires a university degree based on at least three years of full-time studies (equivalent to 180 ECTS credits) and successful completion of the assessment process as outlined in the program rules. Additionally, proof of C1-level English language skills is required.
We require proof of English language skills in line with level C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages for admission. An overview of generally accepted tests and the required scores is available on the website of our language centre.
Yes, you can still apply. If your application is successful, you have to send the required test results to us before beginning your studies or you will lose your spot for the respective year.
The programme only starts in the winter term. Applications are accepted between 15 February and 31 May each year. Please note that processing visa applications may sometimes take several months. We therefore strongly advise applicants who require a student visa to apply as early as possible. The same applies to scholarship applications.
An overview of relevant steps and requirements for obtaining a visa can, for example, be found on the website of the DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service). Visa proceedings can take several months, so we strongly advise you to apply to the degree programme in February and apply for your visa immediately after getting admitted.
Please note that it is your responsibility as a student to obtain the required visa. If you are admitted, we will send you an admission letter with which you can apply at the nearest German embassy/consulate. If necessary, we can also write letters of support and be available for questions directly by the embassy but we cannot influence visa proceedings.
As a student in Nuremberg or Erlangen, your average cost of living will be around 870 EUR per month. For more information, visit the webpages of the Studierendenwerke (student services organisations) or Study in Germany.
The program is unfortunately not able to offer scholarships at this point. There are, however, many options offered by other organisations, such as the German Academic Exchange Service and several foundations. Some options are listed on our scholarship page.
University staff at the international office will try to assist you in your search if you apply for their support after being admitted to the program. However, they are not responsible for finding accommodation and can only make recommendations. Students are themselves responsible for securing suitable accommodation in the Nuremberg area.