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M-A in Human Rights at Swami Ramanand Teerth Marathwada University
Nanded, Maharashtra
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About the Specialization
What is Human Rights at Swami Ramanand Teerth Marathwada University Nanded?
This M.A. Human Rights program at Swami Ramanand Teerth Marathwada University, Nanded, focuses on a comprehensive understanding of human rights principles, laws, and their practical application. It delves into universal declarations, Indian constitutional provisions, and international covenants, preparing students for roles in advocacy, research, and policy formulation. The program addresses the growing demand in India for professionals who can champion justice and equality across various societal sectors.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from any discipline, particularly Social Sciences, Law, or Humanities, seeking entry into human rights advocacy, social work, or policy analysis. It also caters to working professionals, including government employees, NGO workers, and legal practitioners, looking to deepen their understanding and specialize in human rights issues for career advancement in India''''s dynamic social landscape.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as Human Rights Officers, NGO Program Managers, Policy Analysts, Legal Aid Counselors, and Researchers. Entry-level salaries might range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience with relevant organizations. The program aligns with the critical need for ethically grounded professionals in public service, social justice organizations, and international bodies operating within India.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Human Rights Principles- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on deeply understanding foundational concepts, historical evolution, and key documents like UDHR and the Indian Constitution. Utilize online legal databases and scholarly articles to complement classroom learning. Form study groups to discuss complex topics and case studies.
Tools & Resources
SCC Online, Manupatra (for legal research), NPTEL courses on human rights, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong theoretical base is crucial for effective advocacy, policy analysis, and legal reasoning in future human rights roles, especially when dealing with legal frameworks in India.
Engage with Current Affairs & Social Issues- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly read national newspapers and reputable online news sources to connect theoretical human rights concepts with real-world issues in India. Participate in college debates or discussions on contemporary social problems, developing critical analysis and communication skills.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu, Indian Express, Live Law, The Wire, Academic journals focused on social justice
Career Connection
Understanding current events is vital for identifying areas of human rights violations and proposing relevant solutions, essential for NGO work, social activism, and policy making in the Indian context.
Develop Academic Research and Writing Skills- (undefined)
Pay close attention to academic writing workshops, focusing on structuring arguments, proper citation, and clear expression. Practice summarizing legal texts and case analyses. Seek feedback from professors on essays and assignments to refine research methodology and writing prowess.
Tools & Resources
Mendeley/Zotero (for citation management), Purdue OWL, Academic writing guides, University library resources
Career Connection
Strong research and writing skills are fundamental for legal research, policy drafting, report writing for NGOs, and academic pursuits in the human rights field in India.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Applied Research for Dissertation- (Semester 3-4)
Proactively choose a dissertation topic aligned with your career interests. Engage in fieldwork, interviews, or data collection relevant to your chosen human rights issue. Collaborate with faculty mentors for guidance and rigorous review, ensuring the project has real-world applicability.
Tools & Resources
Google Scholar, University research ethics board, Interview guides, Qualitative/quantitative analysis software (e.g., NVivo, basic Excel)
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation showcases specialized knowledge and research capability, highly valued by employers in research, advocacy, and policy roles across India.
Seek Internships with Human Rights Organizations- (Semester 3-4)
Actively apply for internships with national or local NGOs working in human rights, state/national human rights commissions, or legal aid centers. Gain practical experience in case management, report writing, public awareness campaigns, or legal assistance.
Tools & Resources
NGO websites (e.g., Amnesty India, Human Rights Watch), Online job portals (e.g., DevNetJobs, LinkedIn), University career services
Career Connection
Internships provide invaluable practical exposure, build professional networks, and often lead directly to placement opportunities or stronger job applications in the human rights sector in India.
Participate in Workshops and Advocacy Training- (Semester 3-4)
Attend workshops, seminars, and training programs on specific human rights themes, legal aid, or advocacy skills offered by the university or external organizations. Develop public speaking and negotiation skills relevant to human rights work.
Tools & Resources
Human Rights Measurement Initiative (HRMI), Local bar associations, Specific NGO training modules, Mock legal aid sessions
Career Connection
These skills are critical for roles in lobbying, community organizing, public education, and effectively representing vulnerable populations in India.
Advanced Stage
Build a Professional Network and Personal Brand- (Semester 4 and Post-Graduation)
Actively connect with alumni, guest speakers, and professionals in human rights via LinkedIn and university events. Develop a strong professional profile highlighting your specialized skills, dissertation work, and internship experiences. Attend relevant conferences to expand your contacts.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, University alumni network, Professional human rights associations in India
Career Connection
Networking is crucial for job opportunities, mentorship, and staying informed about developments in the human rights field in India, facilitating career entry and growth.
Prepare for Sector-Specific Certifications and Roles- (Semester 4 and Post-Graduation)
Research specific certifications or advanced courses that would enhance your profile for particular human rights roles, such as conflict resolution, child protection, or women''''s rights advocacy. Tailor your resume and cover letters to target specific job descriptions within NGOs, UN agencies (in India), or government roles.
Tools & Resources
Online certification platforms (e.g., Coursera, NPTEL advanced courses), Career counselors, Specialized job boards for the social sector
Career Connection
Specialized certifications and targeted applications significantly improve employability and open doors to niche roles in the competitive human rights job market in India.
Develop Advocacy and Communication Portfolios- (Semester 4 and Post-Graduation)
Compile a portfolio of your best research papers, project reports, internship experiences, and any public presentations or articles. Practice presenting complex human rights issues clearly and concisely to diverse audiences, honing both written and oral advocacy skills.
Tools & Resources
Personal website/blog, Behance (for showcasing written work), Public speaking clubs, Simulated advocacy scenarios
Career Connection
A strong portfolio demonstrates your capabilities and passion, making you a more compelling candidate for roles requiring communication, advocacy, and evidence-based reporting in the human rights sector.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- No eligibility criteria specified
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper I | Concept of Human Rights and Duties | Core | 4 | Evolution of Human Rights, Human Rights in Ancient & Medieval Period, Human Rights in Modern Period, Meaning & Scope of Human Rights, Human Rights & Duties |
| Paper II | Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) | Core | 4 | Preamble to UDHR, Civil & Political Rights, Economic & Social Rights, Cultural Rights, Collective Rights |
| Paper III | Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms | Core | 4 | Rights to Life and Liberty, Freedom of Thought and Expression, Freedom of Religion and Assembly, Right to Movement and Residence, Right to Property and Privacy |
| Paper IV | Human Rights and Indian Constitution | Core | 4 | Preamble and Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles of State Policy, Right to Constitutional Remedies, Human Rights and Indian Judiciary, Role of National Human Rights Commission |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper V | International Covenants on Human Rights | Core | 4 | International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), Optional Protocols, Monitoring Mechanisms, Application of Covenants |
| Paper VI | Human Rights of Weaker Sections | Core | 4 | Human Rights of Women, Human Rights of Children, Human Rights of Scheduled Castes & Tribes, Human Rights of Minorities, Human Rights of Disabled Persons |
| Paper VII | Human Rights and Good Governance | Core | 4 | Concept of Good Governance, Transparency and Accountability, Right to Information, Role of Lokpal and Lokayukta, Human Rights and Public Administration |
| Paper VIII | Human Rights and Environment | Core | 4 | Environmental Ethics, Human Rights and Environmental Protection, Sustainable Development, Environmental Laws in India, Role of NGOs in Environmental Protection |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper IX | Human Rights and Humanitarian Law | Core | 4 | International Humanitarian Law (IHL), Geneva Conventions, War Crimes and Crimes against Humanity, Role of International Criminal Court, Peacekeeping Operations |
| Paper X | Human Rights and Human Development | Core | 4 | Concept of Human Development, Human Development Index, Poverty and Human Rights, Education and Health Rights, Food Security and Human Rights |
| Paper XI | Human Rights and Social Movements | Core | 4 | Concept of Social Movements, Civil Rights Movement, Women''''s Movement, Environmental Movement, Dalit Movement in India |
| Paper XII | Dissertation/Project Work | Project | 4 | Research Methodology, Data Collection Techniques, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Structure, Presentation Skills |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper XIII | Human Rights and Criminal Justice System | Core | 4 | Human Rights of Prisoners, Rights of Victims, Police Brutality and Accountability, Fair Trial Principles, Death Penalty Debate |
| Paper XIV | Human Rights Education | Core | 4 | Importance of Human Rights Education, Methods of Human Rights Education, Role of UNESCO in HRE, NGOs in Human Rights Education, Curriculum Development for HRE |
| Paper XV | International Human Rights Institutions | Core | 4 | United Nations Human Rights Council, Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, International Labour Organization (ILO), Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch |
| Paper XVI | Emerging Issues in Human Rights | Core | 4 | Terrorism and Human Rights, Migrants and Refugees Rights, Digital Rights and Privacy, Business and Human Rights, Climate Change and Human Rights |
