This course offers a multidisciplinary introduction to the theory and practice of human rights. You’ll explore how human rights are protected and promoted at global, regional, and national levels, while developing critical thinking and research skills. You’ll engage with issues like migration, equality, and justice, preparing for careers in NGOs, public service, advocacy, and more.

Year 1
You’ll explore the foundations of human rights, including their historical, legal, and philosophical origins. Sample modules include:

• Introduction to Human Rights I
• Introduction to Human Rights II
• Introduction to Human Rights III
• Core modules in your second Arts subject

Year 2
You’ll examine regional human rights systems and explore contemporary global issues like migration, LGBTIQ+ rights and gender equality. Sample modules include:

• The Regional Protection of Human Rights
• Contemporary Issues in Human Rights Protection
• Core modules in your second Arts subject

Year 3
This is your dedicated Human Rights year. In semester one, choose from a wide range of modules in law and political science. In semester two, you can apply your learning in one of three ways:

• A work placement with a human rights organisation
• A semester abroad at a partner university
• An Applied Human Rights Project
• A selection of Law modules, examples below
• Introduction to Law
• European Union Law
• Animal Law
• Equality and Law
• Environmental Law

Year 4
You’ll complete advanced modules in your core Arts subjects and may incorporate your human rights knowledge into final-year projects or dissertations.

Please note: Course structure and module offerings are subject to change.

Curriculum Information

Year 1 (60 Credits)

Optional Subject: Ancient Classics (15 Credits):
OptionalCC1101: Mythology and the City in Ancient Greece - 5 Credits - Semester 1
OptionalCC114: Written Words & Spoken Languages in the Ancient World - 5 Credits - Semester 1
OptionalCC1100: Classics in 20 Objects - 5 Credits - Semester 1
OptionalCC1102: Empire and Literature in Ancient Rome - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: Archaeology (15 Credits):
OptionalAR1104: Material Culture and Museums - 5 Credits - Semester 1
OptionalAR113: Prehistoric Ireland & Europe - 5 Credits - Semester 1
OptionalAR1105: Medieval Ireland and Europe - 5 Credits - Semester 2
OptionalAR1106: Sites and Monuments in the Landscape - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: Economics (15 Credits):
RequiredEC1108: Skills for Economics I - 5 Credits - Semester 1
RequiredEC135: Principles of Microeconomics - 5 Credits - Semester 1
RequiredEC136: Principles of Macroeconomics - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: English (15 Credits):
RequiredEN124: Introduction to English 1 - 5 Credits - Semester 1
RequiredEN1106: Exploring English - 5 Credits - Semester 1
RequiredEN125: Introduction to English 2 - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: French (15 Credits):
RequiredFR1100: Introduction to French Language and Culture - 15 Credits - Semester 1

Optional Subject: Gaeilge (15 Credits):
OptionalNG1106: Litríocht agus Cultúr na Linne - 5 Credits - Semester 1
RequiredNG1105: An Teanga Bheo - 10 Credits - Semester 1
OptionalNG1110: An Áit agus a Scéal - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: Geography/Tíreolaíocht (15 Credits):
RequiredTI1103: Geography in Action - 5 Credits - Semester 1
RequiredTI151: Principles of Physical Geography - 5 Credits - Semester 2
RequiredTI150: Principles of Human Geography - 5 Credits - Semester 1

Optional Subject: German (Advanced) (15 Credits):
RequiredGR1100: German Language and Culture (Advanced) - 15 Credits - Semester 1

Optional Subject: German (Beginners) (15 Credits):
RequiredGR1101: German Language and Culture (Beginners) - 15 Credits - Semester 1

Optional Subject: Global Media (15 Credits):
RequiredAJ1104: Digital Literacy Essentials - 5 Credits - Semester 1
RequiredAJ1102: Introduction to Media and Communication Studies - 5 Credits - Semester 1
RequiredAJ1100: History of Media - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: History (15 Credits):
RequiredHI1100: Skills for Historians (BA Connect) - 5 Credits - Semester 1
RequiredHI1103: Europe and Ireland 1789 - 1918 - 5 Credits - Semester 1
RequiredHI1106: Early Cultural Encounters in Ireland and the Americas - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Required Core Subject: Human Rights (15 Credits):
RequiredHR101: Introduction to Human Rights I - 5 Credits - Semester 1
RequiredHR102: Introduction to Human Rights II - 5 Credits - Semester 2
RequiredHR103: Introduction to Human Rights III - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: Information Technology (15 Credits):
RequiredCT1101: Programming I - 5 Credits - Semester 1
RequiredCT1100: Computer Systems - 5 Credits - Semester 1
RequiredCT1102: Programming II - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: Italian (15 Credits):
RequiredIT1100: Italian Language and Culture - 15 Credits - Semester 1

Optional Subject: Léann an Aistriúcháin (15 Credits):
RequiredLN1103: Bunscileanna Gramadaí - 10 Credits - Semester 1
RequiredLN105: Bunscileanna Aistriúcháin - 5 Credits - Semester 1

Optional Subject: Léann na Cumarsáide (15 Credits):
RequiredCG1105: Bunús na hIriseoireachta - 5 Credits - Semester 1
RequiredCG1107: Cleachtas Léirithe na Meán 1 - 5 Credits - Semester 1
RequiredCG1104: Na Meáin agus an tSochaí - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: Mathematics (15 Credits):
OptionalMA131: Mathematical Skills - 5 Credits - Semester 1
OptionalMA133: Analysis and Algebra 1 - 5 Credits - Semester 1
OptionalMA185: Analysis and Algebra 1 - 5 Credits - Semester 1
OptionalMA135: Analysis and Algebra 2 - 5 Credits - Semester 2
OptionalMA187: Mathematical Skills - 5 Credits - Semester 2
OptionalMA186: Analysis and Algebra 2 - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: Modern Irish Culture Studies: Literature and Music (15 Credits):
RequiredISSK1100: Introducing Modern and Contemporary Irish Literature - 5 Credits - Semester 1
RequiredIS1103: Introducing Irish Traditional Music & Dance since 1893 - 5 Credits - Semester 1
RequiredIS1104: The Migrant Experience in Modern Irish Writing - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: Philosophy (15 Credits):
RequiredPI107: Introduction To The History Of Philosophy - 5 Credits - Semester 1
RequiredPISK1102: Critical Thinking and Logic - 5 Credits - Semester 1
RequiredPI108: Introduction To Practical Ethics - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: Sociological & Political Studies (15 Credits):
RequiredSP160: Problems in Politics & Sociology - 5 Credits - Semester 1
RequiredSP1125: Introduction to Politics - 5 Credits - Semester 1
RequiredSP1126: Introduction to Sociology - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional Subject: Spanish (Beginners) (15 Credits):
RequiredSH1100: Intensive Beginners Spanish Language and Culture - 15 Credits - Semester 1

Optional Subject: Spanish (Intermediate) (15 Credits):
RequiredSH1101: Intermediate Spanish Language and Culture - 15 Credits - Semester 1

Year 2 (60 Credits)

Optional Subject: Ancient Classics (25 Credits):
This subject is available if you studied Classics in the previous year / semester.
This subject is available if you studied Ancient Classics in the previous year / semester.
OptionalCC2103: Mediterranean Origins - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalCC230: Beginning Latin Part 1 - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalCC2105: Heroic Epic - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalCC2104: The City-State - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalCC232: Beginning Latin Part 2 - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalSG217: A Field of Gods & Men: Celtic Myths - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalCC2107: Science and God - 5 Credits - Semester 4

Optional Subject: Archaeology (25 Credits):
This subject is available if you studied Archaeology in the previous year / semester.
OptionalAR2103: Archaeology and Irish Identity – Celts, Christians, Vikings - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalAR2107: Ancient Civilizations - Mesopotamia, Egypt, Indus Valley, Mesoamerica - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalAR2108: Space, Place and the Irish Landscape - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalAR236: Interpretation in Archaeology - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalAR2106: Introduction to Archaeological Excavation - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalAR245: Archaeology in Practice - 5 Credits - Semester 4

Optional Subject: Economics (25 Credits):
This subject is available if you studied Economics in the previous year / semester.
This subject is available if you studied Geilleagar in the previous year / semester.
OptionalEC207: Irish Economic History - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalEC3107: Economic Ideas - 5 Credits - Semester 3
RequiredEC273: Mathematics for Economics - 5 Credits - Semester 3
RequiredEC269: Intermediate Microeconomics - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalEC247: Introduction to Financial Economics - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalEC259: Economics of Public Policy - 5 Credits - Semester 4
RequiredEC268: Intermediate Macroeconomics - 5 Credits - Semester 4
RequiredEC275: Statistics for Economics - 5 Credits - Semester 4

Optional Subject: English (25 Credits):
This subject is available if you studied English in the previous year / semester.
OptionalEN2166: Seduction, Sexuality, and Race: Early Modern Identities - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalEN2102: Renaissance Drama - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalEN2106: Shakespearean Comedies - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalEN2154: Exploring Shakespeare (S1) - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalEN2112: Creative Writing - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalEN2133: Media, Culture, Society - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalEN2185: Stories Told and Re-Told - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalEN2175: Postcolonial Literature (S1) - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalEN2181: Special Topic S1 - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalEN2191: Eighteenth-Century Writing (S1) - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalEN2306: History Of the English Language (S1) - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalEN3152: The Sonnet (S1) - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalIS2106: Irish Environmental Literatures - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalEN2119: Media Studies - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalEN2216: Nineteenth-Century Writing S1 - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalEN3154: Literature, Empathy and Estrangement (S1) - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalEN2217: Literature and Ideas S1 - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalEN3113: Modernist Fiction - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalEN2114: Renaissance Drama - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalEN2116: Shakespearean Comedies - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalEN2172: SERVICE LEARNING: READING AND WRITING WITH PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN(S2) - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalEN2155: Exploring Shakespeare (S2) - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalEN264: Studies In Medieval Literature - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalEN2100: Creative Writing - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalEN2174: Exploring Shakespeare (S2) - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalENG304: Contemporary Literature - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalEN2176: Postcolonial Literature (S2) - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalEN2179: 19th Century Detective Fiction S2 - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalEN2182: Special Topic S2 - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalEN2187: Jane Austen S2 - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalENG203: Genre Studies - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalEN2782: Milton's Poetry S2 - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalEN3114: Modernist Fiction - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalEN2218: Literature and Ideas S2 - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalEN3155: Literature, Empathy and Estrangement (S2) - 5 Credits - Semester 4

Optional Subject: French (25 Credits):
This subject is available if you studied French in the previous year / semester.
OptionalFR269: Lecture du français: Textes, Contextes, Idées - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalFR270: Langue poétique/ langue vivante - 5 Credits - Semester 3
RequiredFR266: French Language 5 - 10 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalFR267: La France mise en scène - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalFR2100: Expressing French and Francophone Identities - 5 Credits - Semester 4

Optional Subject: Gaeilge (25 Credits):
This subject is available if you studied Gaeilge in the previous year / semester.
RequiredNG227: Teanga Na Nua-Ghaeilge I - 5 Credits - Semester 3
RequiredNG2100: An tSochtheangeolaíocht - 5 Credits - Semester 3
RequiredNG2101: An Gearrscéal sa Ghaeilge - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalNG2109: Téamaí i Nuafhilíocht na Gaeilge - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalNG2103: Teanga na Sean-Ghaeilge I - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalNG2102: Scannánaíocht na Gaeilge - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalNG2107: Ainmneacha, Sloinnte agus Logainmneacha na hÉireann - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalNG2108: Canúint agus Caighdeán - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalNG2113: An Chaointeoireacht i dTraidisiún na Gaeilge - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalNG2112: Lámhscríbhinní na Gaeilge (1200-1700) - 5 Credits - Semester 4
RequiredNG228: Teanga Na Nua-Ghaeilge II - 5 Credits - Semester 4

Optional Subject: Geography/Tíreolaíocht (25 Credits):
This subject is available if you studied Geography/Tíreolaíocht in the previous year / semester.
OptionalTI229: Political & Cutural Geography: Identity, Race & the Nation - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalTI235: Biogeography - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalTI2110: Perspectives on Climate Change - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalTI230: Economic Geography - 5 Credits - Semester 3
RequiredTI2102: Introduction To GIS - 10 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalTI2108: Introduction to Palaeoclimatology - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalTI248: Coastal Environments - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalTI2112: Environmental Planning, Sustainability and Climate Action - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalTI2113: Agricultural Policy, Farming and the Rural - 5 Credits - Semester 4
RequiredTI2111: Theory & Practice in Geography - 5 Credits - Semester 4

Optional Subject: German (25 Credits):
This subject is available if you studied German (Advanced) in the previous year / semester.
This subject is available if you studied German (Beginners) in the previous year / semester.
OptionalGR239: History of German Literature & Culture I - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalGR238: German Studies I - 5 Credits - Semester 3
RequiredGR236: German Language I - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalGR240: German Studies II - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalGR235: History of German Literature & Culture II - 5 Credits - Semester 4
RequiredGR237: German Language II - 5 Credits - Semester 4

Optional Subject: Global Media (25 Credits):
This subject is available if you studied Global Media in the previous year / semester.
OptionalBSS2103: Introduction to Sustainability 1 - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalMG3113: Megatrends - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalAJ2120: Celebrity, Social Class and Media Culture - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalAJ2126: Storytelling with Numbers and Data - 5 Credits - Semester 3
RequiredAJ2109: Understanding Media Audiences - 5 Credits - Semester 3
RequiredAJ2102: Power without Responsibility - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalBSS2104: Introduction to Sustainability 2 - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalMG3115: Megatrends - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalAJ2123: The Media and Global Migration - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalAJ2129: Global Pop Culture, Media and Identity - 5 Credits - Semester 4
RequiredAJ2110: How Television Lobotomised the World - 5 Credits - Semester 4
RequiredAJ2127: Digital Society and Platform Studies - 5 Credits - Semester 4

Optional Subject: History (25 Credits):
This subject is available if you studied History in the previous year / semester.
OptionalHI2150: Europe, 1918-49 - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalHI2157: The Reformation: Tolerance and Intolerance in Early Modern Society - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalHI2160: Ireland since Independence - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalHI2102: The Modern United States, 1865-2008 - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalHI2161: Economy and Society in Pre-Independent Ireland - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalHI431: French Mobilisation and the Great War, 1914-24 - 10 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalHI2151: Europe since 1950 - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalHI2103: Monarchy & Society in Early 17th Century France - 10 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalHI2159: Land and Revolution in Ireland, 1879-1922 - 10 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalHI292: Central Europe, 1867-1918 - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalHI295: The American Civil War: Its Causes and Developments - 10 Credits - Semester 4

Required Core Subject: Human Rights (10 Credits):
RequiredHR2101: The Regional Protection of Human Rights - 5 Credits - Semester 3
RequiredHR2103: Contemporary Issues in Human Rights Protection - 5 Credits - Semester 4

Optional Subject: Information Technology (25 Credits):
This subject is available if you studied Information Technology in the previous year / semester.
OptionalCT2105: Web-based Information Systems - 5 Credits - Semester 3
RequiredCT230: Database Systems I - 5 Credits - Semester 3
RequiredCT2101: Object Oriented Programming I - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalCT2103: Systems Analysis & Design - 5 Credits - Semester 4
RequiredCT2102: Object Oriented Programming II - 5 Credits - Semester 4
RequiredCT2104: Web Application Development - 5 Credits - Semester 4

Optional Subject: Italian (25 Credits):
This subject is available if you studied Italian in the previous year / semester.
OptionalIT238: Italian Culture & Society I - 5 Credits - Semester 3
RequiredIT235: Intermediate Language I - 5 Credits - Semester 3
RequiredIT2101: Oral (Communication and Presentation Skills) - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalIT239: Italian Culture & Society II - 5 Credits - Semester 4
RequiredIT237: Applied Language Skills: Intercultural Studies - 5 Credits - Semester 4
RequiredIT236: Intermediate language II - 5 Credits - Semester 4

Optional Subject: Léann an Aistriúchain (25 Credits):
This subject is available if you studied Léann an Aistriúcháin in the previous year / semester.
RequiredLN201: Aistriúchán Feidhmeach Téacsanna I - 5 Credits - Semester 3
RequiredLN203: Gramadach agus Litriú na Gaeilge I - 5 Credits - Semester 3
RequiredLN207: Cruinneas agus Saibhriú Teanga - 5 Credits - Semester 4
RequiredLN204: Aistriúchán Feidhmeach Téacsanna II - 5 Credits - Semester 4
RequiredLN308: Téarmeolaíocht - 5 Credits - Semester 4

Optional Subject: Léann na Cumarsáide (25 Credits):
This subject is available if you studied Léann na Cumarsáide in the previous year / semester.
RequiredCG2101: Craoltóireacht - 5 Credits - Semester 3
RequiredGA117: Dlí, Eiticí agus an Córas Poiblí - 5 Credits - Semester 3
RequiredCG2106: Cleachtas Léirithe na Meán 2 - 5 Credits - Semester 3
RequiredGA212: Na Meáin Chraolta - 5 Credits - Semester 3
RequiredCG2100: Anailís na Meán - 5 Credits - Semester 4

Optional Subject: Mathematical Studies (25 Credits):
This subject is available if you studied Mathematics in the previous year / semester.
RequiredMA284: Discrete Mathematics - 5 Credits - Semester 3
RequiredMA211: Calculus I - 5 Credits - Semester 3
RequiredST2001: Statistics for Data Science 1 - 5 Credits - Semester 3
RequiredMA212: Calculus II - 5 Credits - Semester 4
RequiredMA283: Linear Algebra - 5 Credits - Semester 4
RequiredST2001: Statistics for Data Science 1 - 5 Credits - Semester 3
RequiredMA2286: Differential Forms - 5 Credits - Semester 3
RequiredMA284: Discrete Mathematics - 5 Credits - Semester 3
RequiredMA2287: Complex Analysis - 5 Credits - Semester 4
RequiredMA283: Linear Algebra - 5 Credits - Semester 4

Optional Subject: Modern Irish Culture Studies: Literature & Music (25 Credits):
OptionalIS2102: Festival, Ritual and Commemoration - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalIS2104: Claiming Place in Gaelic Irish Literature - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalIS2105: Popular Music, Cultural Identities and Ireland - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalIS2106: Irish Environmental Literatures - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalIS2100: Music, Gender and Ireland - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalIS2103: Irish Landscapes, Culture and Literature - 5 Credits - Semester 4

Optional Subject: Philosophy (25 Credits):
This subject is available if you studied Philosophy in the previous year / semester.
OptionalPI210: Moral And Political Philosophy - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalPI240: Bioethics - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalPI246: American Pragmatism - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalPI247: Nietzsche & Philosophy - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalPI248: Phenomenology - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalPI2113: Topics in Ancient Philosophy - 5 Credits - Semester 3
RequiredPI2111: Themes in the History of Modern Philosophy 1: Rationalism - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalPI2102: Formal Logic - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalPI2105: Philosophical Inquiry through P4C - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalPI207: Philosophy Of Art - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalPI241: History Of Irish Thought - 5 Credits - Semester 4
RequiredPI2112: Themes in the History of Modern Philosophy 2: Empiricism and Beyond - 5 Credits - Semester 4

Optional Subject: Sociological And Political Studies (25 Credits):
This subject is available if you studied Sociological & Political Studies in the previous year / semester.
OptionalSP235: Social Issues and Policy Responses - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalSP2116: Sociology of Health - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalSP2117: International and Global Politics - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalSP2122: European Politics - 5 Credits - Semester 3
RequiredSPSK3101: Politics and Society: Themes and Topics - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalSP212: Classical Social Thought - 5 Credits - Semester 4
OptionalSP2123: Modern Political Thought - 5 Credits - Semester 4
RequiredSP220: Methods For Social And Political Science - 5 Credits - Semester 4
RequiredSPSK3102: Society and Politics: Ideas and Research - 5 Credits - Semester 4

Optional Subject: Spanish (25 Credits):
This subject is available if you studied Spanish (Advanced) in the previous year / semester.
This subject is available if you studied Spanish (Beginners) in the previous year / semester.
This subject is available if you studied Spanish (Intermediate) in the previous year / semester.
OptionalSH232: Hispanic Literature & Culture I - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalSH2101: Spanish Language II A: Ex-Intermediate - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalSH2100: Spanish Language II B: Ex-Beginner - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalSH236: Cultural Debates in Latin America - 5 Credits - Semester 3
RequiredSH2102: Spoken Spanish and Oral Presentation Skills - 5 Credits - Semester 3
OptionalSH233: Hispanic Literature & Culture II - 5 Credits - Semester 4
RequiredSH2103: Spanish Language II C - 5 Credits - Semester 4

• Human Rights in Context: Explore global human rights issues through legal, political, historical and ethical lenses from gender and migration to freedom of expression and humanitarian protection.
• Home to the Irish Centre for Human Rights: Study in Galway, a global hub for human rights research and advocacy.
• High-Calibre Faculty: Learn from leading experts and active practitioners in human rights law.
• Work Placement Opportunity: Spend your second semester of Year 3 working with a human rights organisation to gain hands-on experience.
• Study Abroad Opportunity: Explore human rights from a global perspective by studying at one of our partner universities overseas.
• Contemporary Curriculum: Examine regional systems like the European, African and Inter-American human rights frameworks, alongside cutting-edge issues like LGBTIQ+ rights and refugee protection.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts with Human Rights develop strong skills in human rights theory, policy, and advocacy, preparing them for meaningful careers across many sectors that promote social justice and human dignity.

Sectors and Industries
Our graduates are in demand across a wide range of fields including:
International organisations like the United Nations, European 

• Union, and Irish Aid
• Government departments and public administration
• Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and charities
• Community and social work agencies
• Research institutes and policy think tanks

Employers of Our Graduates
Graduates have secured roles with respected organisations such as:

• United Nations bodies and international human rights agencies
• Irish Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
• Development and humanitarian NGOs
• Local and regional government offices
• Advocacy groups and social justice organisations

Graduate Roles
Typical entry-level jobs include:

• Human rights officer or advocate
• Policy advisor or researcher
• Community outreach or project coordinator
• Social justice campaigner
• Research assistant in government or NGO settings

Skills for the Future

• In-depth understanding of human rights systems and frameworks
• Strong research, analysis, and communication skills
• Practical experience from work placements, projects, and study abroad
• Ability to work with diverse communities and organisations
• Critical thinking and problem-solving relevant to global social issues

Emerging Trends and Growth Areas

• Rising global focus on migration, refugees, and LGBTIQ+ rights
• Increasing importance of digital rights, environmental justice, and sustainability
• Growing need for human rights expertise in government, NGOs, and international agencies

Next Steps to Further Study or Careers
Many graduates continue with:

• Postgraduate degrees in human rights, international relations, law, or public policy
• Professional qualifications in law or public administration
• Internships and voluntary roles to build experience and networks

In Year 3, students have the option to spend a semester studying abroad at one of our international partner universities. This immersive experience allows you to broaden your understanding of human rights by engaging with diverse legal systems, political contexts, and cultures.

Where can I go?
You can choose from a wide range of partner universities across Europe through the Erasmus+ programme or apply for a non-EU exchange to destinations such as Switzerland, Spain, Mexico, Peru, the Philippines, the UK, and more.

When does it happen?
Students who choose the study abroad option complete Semester 2 of Year 3 abroad, before returning to Galway for their final year. Study abroad is optional, and students are encouraged to apply. Places may be competitive depending on destination and demand.

Language of study
Courses are taught in English. Some destinations may also offer local language options for interested students.

Skills and benefits
Studying abroad offers a unique chance to live and study in a different country, gaining insight into international perspectives on human rights. It enhances your independence, intercultural awareness, adaptability, and global outlook.

Cost and funding
You don’t pay tuition fees to the host university. Erasmus+ students may receive a grant to support living costs. Additional funding may be available depending on destination and eligibility.

In Year 3, students have the opportunity to undertake a professional work placement with a human rights organisation, gaining valuable real-world experience and applying their academic knowledge in practical settings.

Placement Structure
The work placement is offered as an optional module and involves a minimum of 200 hours (typically 20 hours per week over approximately three months). Students can complete their placement in Ireland or internationally, depending on their interests and career aspirations.

What students do
Placement roles vary depending on the host organisation, but students may engage in:

• Casework and administrative support
• Policy analysis and development
• Community outreach and advocacy
• Monitoring and reporting on human rights compliance
• Educational programme support

Benefits

• Apply human rights theory to real-world issues
• Develop critical professional skills: research, analysis, communication, and advocacy
• Gain insight into the human rights sector and how organisations operate
• Build a professional network
• Clarify your career interests and enhance employability
• Strengthen postgraduate and job applications with hands-on experience
•  

The Bachelor of Arts with Human Rights offers an interdisciplinary and applied approach to human rights education. Across four years, you’ll explore how human rights are protected, debated, and challenged at global, regional, and national levels and learn how to critically engage with those systems in both theory and practice.

How Will I Learn?

Lectures and Seminars – You'll explore the foundations of international human rights law alongside philosophical and historical perspectives, developing a broad understanding of key systems and concepts.

Interdisciplinary Learning - You’ll combine human rights with your chosen Arts subject, allowing you to examine global justice through a range of lenses — such as sociology, politics, or philosophy.

Applied Human Rights Year - Year 3 is fully devoted to human rights. You’ll choose from specialist law and political science modules and either:

• Work with a human rights organisation
• Study abroad at a partner university
• Complete an applied project tackling a real-world issue

Research and Reflection - From first year to final year, students are encouraged to think critically, analyse policy and practice, and reflect on the real-world impact of human rights.

How Will I Be Assessed?

Examinations – Some modules are assessed through formal exams, which test your critical thinking and your ability to engage with human rights frameworks under time constraints.

Applied Assessments - In Year 3, if you choose a placement or applied project, you’ll be assessed on your ability to connect academic concepts with real-world human rights work.

Presentations and Group Work - Many modules include interactive and collaborative assessments, including group projects, class discussions, and oral presentations.

Essays and Written Assignments - Across the programme, your understanding will be assessed through essays, policy briefs, case studies, and reflective writing.

Final Year Projects - You may incorporate your human rights learning into your final year dissertation or capstone project, if suitable.

Course queries:
artsundergrad@universityofgalway.ie

Q: Is this a denominated programme or part of the general Arts degree?
A: This is a denominated four-year degree. You apply directly to the BA with Human Rights (GY135) on your CAO. Human Rights is your core subject throughout the programme, and you’ll combine it with one other Arts subject from a specific list.

Q: What kind of career could this degree lead to?
A: Graduates go on to work in areas like advocacy, NGOs, policy, international development, social research, or journalism. Some also pursue postgraduate study in law, human rights, international relations or public policy.

Q: What other subjects can I study alongside Human Rights?
A: You’ll choose one subject to study with Human Rights from a set list — options usually include Sociology & Politics, Philosophy, History, Economics, Geography, or a language. This lets you deepen your understanding of global issues from multiple perspectives.

Q: What other subjects can I study alongside Human Rights?
A: You’ll choose one subject to study with Human Rights from a set list — options usually include Sociology & Politics, Philosophy, History, Economics, Geography, or a language. This lets you deepen your understanding of global issues from multiple perspectives.

Q: Can I travel or work abroad as part of this degree?
A: Yes — in Year 3, you may have the opportunity to study abroad at one of our partner universities or complete a placement with an international organisation.

Q: Will I study law in this programme?
A: While you’ll explore the legal framework of human rights, this is not a law degree. You’ll gain an understanding of how international and regional legal systems protect rights, but the overall approach is interdisciplinary — drawing from politics, philosophy, and other disciplines too.

Q: Can I travel or work abroad as part of this degree?
A: Yes — in Year 3, you may have the opportunity to study abroad at one of our partner universities or complete a placement with an international organisation.

Q: Will I study law in this programme?
A: While you’ll explore the legal framework of human rights, this is not a law degree. You’ll gain an understanding of how international and regional legal systems protect rights, but the overall approach is interdisciplinary — drawing from politics, philosophy, and other disciplines too.

Minimum Entry Requirements
Minimum Grade H5 in two subjects and passes in four other subjects at O6/H7 level in the Leaving Certificate including Irish, English, another language, and any three other subjects recognised for entry purposes.

Alternative Pathways
The Access Centre at University of Galway provides a number of alternative entry routes to undergraduate programmes. See below some useful links:

• QQI/FET/FETAC Places
• Mature Students
• Access and Foundation programmes
• HEAR Scheme
• DARE Scheme

Other Qualifications
If you are a school leaver presenting results other than Leaving Cert results, please review the entry requirements relevant to you:

• A Level students
• International Baccalaureate students
• EU students

For applicants whose first language is not English, it is important to check our English Language Requirements.

Admissions Office
Our Admissions Office provides additional detail relevant to CAO applicants including key dates, FAQs and instructions for non-school leavers.

Irish and European (EU/EFTA/UK) Applicants
Apply via the CAO. See the CAO Handbook for useful information on applying through the CAO.

Mature Applicants
Apply via the CAO by 1 February. To apply for a place as a mature student, you must be 23 years of age on or before 1 January of the year of entry. Further information available here.

QQI/FET/FETAC Applicants
Apply via the CAO. See our QQI/FET/FETAC Applicants page for information on places available and entry requirements,  

Fees for Academic Year 2025/2026

• Most EU students applying through the CAO will be eligible for the ‘Free Fees Initiative’. You can find out more here.
• If you are eligible for a means tested SUSI grant this may cover 100% of this Student Contribution Charge. If you are 100% eligible SUSI will pay the Student Contribution Charge of €3,000 on your behalf. 
• The Student Levy It is payable by all students and it is not covered by SUSI
• Where the course duration is greater than 1 year, there is an inflationary increase approved of 3.4% per annum for continuing year fees. This applies to non-EU fees.
• You can find additional detail on the Fees Office webpage including FAQs and how fee status is assessed.

High-achieving undergraduate students are encouraged to apply for a range of prestigious scholarships that recognise academic excellence and support students in reaching their full potential. Click here for further Information.

Application Process
Students applying for full undergraduate degree programmes from outside of the European Union (EU), and who are liable for full non-EU tuition fees, should apply online via Apply to University of Galway. Our application portal opens on the 1^st October each year for entry of the following September.  

Further Information
Please visit the international application webpage for further information on closing dates, documentation requirements, application fees and the application process.

Irish Centre for Human Rights - University of Galway

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