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LL-M in Human Rights Law at Symbiosis International University
Pune, Maharashtra
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About the Specialization
What is Human Rights Law at Symbiosis International University Pune?
This Human Rights Law program at Symbiosis International University, Pune, focuses on equipping legal professionals with a deep understanding of international and national human rights frameworks. It addresses the growing need for specialized legal expertise in India, where human rights advocacy and litigation are rapidly evolving, driven by judicial activism and societal demands. The program stands out for its comprehensive approach to contemporary human rights issues.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for law graduates seeking to specialize in human rights, public policy, or social justice. It also caters to practicing lawyers and legal consultants looking to enhance their expertise in human rights litigation, advocacy, or policy-making in India. Government officials, NGO workers, and legal professionals aiming for roles in UN bodies or international organizations focusing on human rights would also greatly benefit.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as human rights lawyers, legal advisors for NGOs, policy analysts, or researchers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Opportunities exist in national human rights commissions, social welfare departments, legal aid cells, and international non-profits, offering a growth trajectory in impactful legal and advocacy roles.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Legal Research and Writing- (Semester 1)
Dedicate time to mastering advanced legal research methodologies and refine legal writing skills, crucial for academic success and future professional practice. Focus on understanding empirical research techniques and doctrinal analysis.
Tools & Resources
Manupatra, SCC Online, JSTOR, Westlaw India
Career Connection
Strong research and writing skills are fundamental for drafting legal opinions, petitions, and research papers, directly impacting success in litigation, policy analysis, and academic roles.
Engage with Global Human Rights Frameworks- (Semester 1)
Actively participate in discussions and seminars related to international human rights law and comparative public law. Understand the nuances of various international treaties, conventions, and their implementation in different legal systems, including India.
Tools & Resources
UN Human Rights Office publications, Amnesty International reports, Human Rights Watch documents
Career Connection
This engagement builds a global perspective, essential for roles in international organizations, cross-border advocacy, and understanding the universal applicability of human rights principles.
Network with Peers and Faculty- (Semester 1)
Actively participate in class discussions, form study groups, and connect with faculty members. These interactions foster a deeper understanding of complex legal concepts and open doors to mentorship and collaborative research opportunities.
Tools & Resources
University library discussion rooms, LinkedIn Professional Network
Career Connection
Building a strong academic network early on can lead to collaborative projects, internships, and valuable professional references for future career opportunities in the human rights sector.
Intermediate Stage
Initiate and Structure the Socio-Legal Research Project- (Early Semester 2)
Start early on identifying a research topic for the Socio-Legal Research Project. Develop a clear research question, methodology, and timeline. Seek regular guidance from faculty advisors to ensure rigor and originality.
Tools & Resources
Zotero/Mendeley for citation management, Google Scholar, LexisNexis India
Career Connection
This project is a cornerstone for demonstrating independent research capabilities, critical for academic positions, policy research, and legal analysis roles, particularly in think tanks or advocacy groups.
Deep Dive into Specialization Electives- (Mid Semester 2)
Beyond classroom learning, conduct extensive self-study and explore case studies related to ''''Contemporary Issues in Human Rights Law'''' and ''''Humanitarian Law and Refugee Law''''. Attend webinars or workshops on these specific areas.
Tools & Resources
UNHCR publications, ICRC resources, Specialized human rights journals
Career Connection
In-depth knowledge in these niche areas enhances your specialization profile, making you a strong candidate for roles in refugee assistance, international humanitarian organizations, and specialized legal practices.
Seek Practical Exposure through Internships/Pro Bono Work- (During Semester 2 breaks or alongside studies)
Actively look for short-term internships or pro bono opportunities with human rights NGOs, legal aid cells, or individual practitioners working in human rights. Apply theoretical knowledge to real-world legal challenges.
Tools & Resources
University career services, Online internship portals, Lawyers'''' collective networks
Career Connection
Practical experience is invaluable for understanding the application of human rights law, building a professional network, and securing placements after graduation, showcasing practical skills to potential employers.
Advanced Stage
Refine and Present Research Project- (Late Semester 2)
Focus on meticulously refining the Socio-Legal Research Project, ensuring clarity, logical flow, and robust arguments. Prepare for its defense, practicing presentation skills and anticipating potential questions.
Tools & Resources
Microsoft PowerPoint, Canva for presentation design, Peer review sessions
Career Connection
A well-executed and articulated research project is a powerful portfolio piece, enhancing credibility for academic pursuits, policy analysis roles, and demonstrating expertise to employers.
Build a Professional Brand and Portfolio- (Late Semester 2)
Develop a professional online presence, including an updated LinkedIn profile highlighting skills, projects, and experiences. Compile a portfolio of research papers, legal drafts, and certificates from relevant workshops.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional e-portfolio platforms, Networking events
Career Connection
A strong professional brand and portfolio are critical for attracting potential employers, showcasing your expertise, and differentiating yourself in a competitive job market in India and internationally.
Engage in Career Planning and Placement Drives- (Late Semester 2)
Actively participate in career counseling sessions, mock interviews, and campus placement drives. Tailor your resume and cover letters to specific human rights roles and organizations you aspire to join.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell, Career counselors, Job search platforms like Naukri.com, Indeed
Career Connection
Proactive career planning and engagement with placement services significantly increase your chances of securing a desirable position in human rights law, whether in NGOs, government, or legal firms.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.A. LL.B./B.B.A. LL.B./LL.B. degree from any recognized University with minimum 50% marks or equivalent grade (45% for SC/ST candidates).
Duration: 2 semesters (1 year)
Credits: 48 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 101 | Research Methodology and Legal Writing | Core | 4 | Key topics not detailed in the official program structure document. |
| 102 | Law and Justice in a Globalized World | Core | 4 | Key topics not detailed in the official program structure document. |
| 103 | Comparative Public Law | Core | 4 | Key topics not detailed in the official program structure document. |
| 104 | International Human Rights Law and Mechanisms | Specialization Elective (Human Rights Law) | 4 | Key topics not detailed in the official program structure document. |
| 105 | Human Rights and Criminal Justice | Specialization Elective (Human Rights Law) | 4 | Key topics not detailed in the official program structure document. |
| 106 | Human Rights and Vulnerable Groups | Specialization Elective (Human Rights Law) | 4 | Key topics not detailed in the official program structure document. |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 201 | Advanced Jurisprudence | Core | 4 | Key topics not detailed in the official program structure document. |
| 202 | Socio-Legal Research Project | Project | 8 | Key topics not detailed in the official program structure document. |
| 203 | Contemporary Issues in Human Rights Law | Specialization Elective (Human Rights Law) | 4 | Key topics not detailed in the official program structure document. |
| 204 | Humanitarian Law and Refugee Law | Specialization Elective (Human Rights Law) | 4 | Key topics not detailed in the official program structure document. |
| 205 | Specific Human Rights: Theory and Practice | Specialization Elective (Human Rights Law) | 4 | Key topics not detailed in the official program structure document. |
