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LLM in Human Rights Law at National Law University, Delhi
Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is Human Rights Law at National Law University, Delhi Delhi?
This Human Rights Law program at National Law University Delhi focuses on advanced study of international and domestic human rights frameworks. It delves into the historical evolution, philosophical underpinnings, and contemporary challenges of human rights, preparing legal professionals for impactful careers. The curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of human rights jurisprudence in the Indian context.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for law graduates passionate about social justice and human dignity, aiming to specialize in human rights advocacy or research. It also suits working professionals from NGOs, government agencies, or corporate social responsibility divisions seeking to deepen their expertise in human rights compliance and protection mechanisms in India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates can expect diverse career paths in international organizations, national human rights commissions, NGOs, and legal aid services. In India, roles range from legal advisors to human rights defenders, with starting salaries for fresh graduates typically INR 4-7 lakhs per annum, growing significantly with experience in specialized advocacy or policy work.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Foundational Human Rights Concepts- (Semester 1)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand core human rights instruments like the UDHR, ICCPR, ICESCR, and India''''s constitutional provisions. Form study groups to discuss complex legal principles and their application, focusing on case law analysis. Utilize library resources and online legal databases to build a strong theoretical base.
Tools & Resources
NLU Delhi Library, Manupatra, SCC Online, UN Human Rights documents, Classroom discussions
Career Connection
A robust understanding of fundamentals is crucial for any human rights career, forming the bedrock for effective advocacy, policy analysis, and legal research in India and internationally.
Develop Advanced Legal Research Skills- (Semester 1)
Actively participate in legal research methods courses, practicing advanced search techniques and citation styles. Undertake mini-research projects on contemporary human rights issues, honing your analytical and critical thinking abilities. Seek feedback from professors on your research papers to improve academic writing and logical argumentation.
Tools & Resources
LexisNexis, Westlaw, NLU Delhi''''s research methodology workshops, Academic journals
Career Connection
Exceptional research skills are indispensable for legal drafting, policy formulation, and academic pursuits, directly impacting your ability to contribute to human rights scholarship and practice.
Engage in Human Rights Debates and Seminars- (Semester 1)
Actively attend and participate in seminars, workshops, and guest lectures organized by NLU Delhi''''s Human Rights Centre or other departments. Engage with visiting scholars and practitioners to gain diverse perspectives on global and Indian human rights challenges. Contribute to discussions and present your views confidently.
Tools & Resources
NLU Delhi Human Rights Centre events, University seminar series, Relevant online webinars
Career Connection
Networking and critical engagement with diverse viewpoints are vital for developing a holistic understanding of human rights issues and for building professional connections in the field.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Specialization-Specific Electives- (Semester 2)
Strategically choose specialization electives (e.g., Business and Human Rights, Environmental Law and Human Rights) that align with your career interests. Deep dive into the specific nuances of these areas, conducting independent research and writing detailed papers on chosen topics.
Tools & Resources
Course syllabi, Recommended readings, Faculty consultations, Specialized journals
Career Connection
Developing expertise in a niche area within human rights makes you a more attractive candidate for specialized roles in NGOs, CSR divisions, or international agencies focused on those specific issues.
Pursue Practical Internships and Pro Bono Work- (Semester 2)
Actively seek out and complete internships with human rights organizations, legal aid clinics, or government bodies during semester breaks. Engage in pro bono legal work or volunteer for NGOs working on human rights issues in Delhi or across India. Apply classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios.
Tools & Resources
University career services, Online internship portals (e.g., Internshala, LinkedIn), NGO websites
Career Connection
Practical experience is critical for gaining hands-on skills, understanding operational challenges, and building a professional network, significantly boosting employability in the competitive human rights sector.
Participate in Moot Courts or Policy Competitions- (Semester 2)
Join moot court competitions focused on international human rights law or participate in policy drafting challenges. This develops advocacy skills, legal argumentation, and the ability to work under pressure, simulating real-world legal and policy environments relevant to human rights.
Tools & Resources
NLU Delhi Moot Court Society, Relevant competition guidelines, Faculty mentors
Career Connection
These experiences enhance your public speaking, research, and persuasive argumentation skills, which are invaluable for legal practice, advocacy, and policy formulation roles in human rights.
Advanced Stage
Publish Research and Engage in Scholarly Discourse- (Post-Graduation)
Refine your LLM dissertation or other academic papers for publication in reputable law journals or present at conferences. Engaging in scholarly discourse enhances your profile, establishes you as an expert, and contributes to the academic development of human rights law.
Tools & Resources
NLU Delhi''''s academic journals, National and international law reviews, Academic conferences
Career Connection
Publication strengthens your academic credentials for research roles, think tanks, or pursuing further doctoral studies, and enhances credibility for policy advocacy.
Continuous Professional Development and Networking- (Ongoing post-graduation)
Stay updated with evolving human rights jurisprudence, international developments, and legislative changes through workshops, short courses, and professional associations. Actively network with human rights lawyers, activists, and policymakers through conferences and alumni events.
Tools & Resources
Bar Council of India, International Bar Association, NLU Delhi Alumni Network, Online courses from platforms like Coursera/edX
Career Connection
Lifelong learning and robust networking are essential for career progression, identifying new opportunities, and staying relevant in the dynamic field of human rights law.
Seek Opportunities in International Human Rights Bodies- (Post-Graduation, after gaining initial experience)
Explore career opportunities with UN agencies, regional human rights commissions, or international NGOs. Prepare applications tailored to their specific requirements, highlighting your specialization and practical experience. Consider pursuing UN Young Professionals Programme or similar entry-level roles.
Tools & Resources
UN Careers Portal, OHCHR website, International NGO job boards, Career counseling
Career Connection
These roles offer unparalleled exposure to global human rights issues and provide a platform for significant international impact and career advancement.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- LL.B. Degree from a recognized university with not less than 50% marks in aggregate (45% for SC/ST/Persons with Disability).
Duration: 1 Year (2 Semesters)
Credits: 40 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LM 101 | Legal Research Methods and Writing | Core | 4 | Research Design, Doctrinal and Non-Doctrinal Research, Data Collection Techniques, Legal Writing Styles, Research Ethics, Citation Methods |
| LM 102 | Law and Justice in a Globalizing World | Core | 4 | Theories of Globalization, International Legal Order, Global Governance, Human Rights Discourse, Justice Theories, Socio-Legal Movements |
| LM HR 103 | International Human Rights Law | Specialization Core | 4 | Universal Declaration of Human Rights, UN Charter-Based Mechanisms, Treaty-Based Bodies, Regional Human Rights Systems, Enforcement Mechanisms, Contemporary Challenges |
| LM HR 104 | Human Rights of Vulnerable Groups | Elective | 4 | Rights of Women, Child Rights, Indigenous Peoples'''' Rights, Rights of Persons with Disabilities, LGBTQ+ Rights, Migrant Workers Rights |
| LM HR 105 | Humanitarian Law and Refugee Law | Elective | 4 | International Humanitarian Law Principles, Geneva Conventions, Protection of Civilians, Refugee Status Determination, Non-refoulement, Internal Displacement |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LM 201 | Comparative Public Law | Core | 4 | Constitutionalism, Judicial Review, Rule of Law, Federalism, Human Rights in Comparative Perspective, Administrative Law |
| LM HR 202 | Business and Human Rights | Elective | 4 | UN Guiding Principles, Corporate Social Responsibility, Human Rights Due Diligence, Supply Chain Accountability, Access to Remedy, India''''s Business & HR Landscape |
| LM HR 203 | Environmental Law and Human Rights | Elective | 4 | Environmental Justice, Climate Change and Human Rights, Right to Healthy Environment, Biodiversity Protection, Sustainable Development Goals, Litigation and Advocacy |
| LM 204 | Dissertation | Core (Research Project) | 8 | Research Proposal Formulation, Literature Review, Methodology, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Thesis Writing, Oral Defense |
