MPhil Human Rights

Human rights experts have a vital role to play in the world today. Conflict, economic inequality and the changing face of technology all pose a threat to human rights globally. The ability to understand the major issues impacting people today, and advocate for change, is becoming more important than ever.  

Our MPhil in Human Rights gives you the opportunity to develop a deep understanding of a range of major human rights issues. During this one-year course, you’ll collaborate with experts from different academic disciplines. You’ll also engage in deep thinking and detailed research as you develop advanced research skills and critical insight. By the end of your studies, you’ll be well equipped to make a meaningful contribution to human rights scholarship and policy. You’ll bring your ideas together in a dissertation of up to 50,000 words that offers original arguments or recommendations to the field of human rights. 

Research expertise across key areas 

Stirling hosts leading scholars in diverse human rights fields, including: 

• Human Rights, Health, Gender and Sexualities
• Migration and Refugee Studies
• International Human Rights and Institutions
• Human Rights, Gender and Sexualities
• Business, Environment, Climate Justice, and Sustainable Development Goals
• Conflict, Security, AI, Technology and Human Rights
• Children’s Rights
• Philosophical Foundations of Human Rights
• Disability Rights and Justice 

Why choose Stirling for human rights research? 

• Make a real impact: Your dissertation will be guided by experts committed to advancing human rights scholarship and activism.
• Connect with the global human rights community: We work closely with organisations such as the International Organization for Migration (IOM), UN Women, the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, Eurac Research, and the East African Centre for Human Rights.
• Build your experience and networks: Get involved with the University of Stirling Human Rights Journal, gaining hands-on skills in editing, project management and professional networking. 

Placement opportunities and PhD pathway 

After you graduate, you'll be equipped with the research and analytical expertise to pursue careers in academia, research institutions, non-governmental organisations, international agencies and government. With flexibility built into the course, you can opt for a placement with NGOs, research institutes, or advocacy organisations, enhancing practical experience alongside academic research. 

If you start with an MPhil Human Rights, you may have the option to transfer to a PhD during your studies, provided you meet the progression requirements. This flexible pathway allows you to shape your research journey around your ambitions. Students who demonstrate exceptional progress on the MPhil can apply to upgrade to a PhD between months 6 - 8 by submitting a piece of written work, providing a thesis plan and completing an oral assessment.

Students studying our MPhil Human Rights course are eligible for scholarships that are allocated to Postgraduate taught courses. See scholarships and funding available for this course.

100% of our research impact in both Law and Philosophy is classed as world leading or internationally excellent. (REF 2021)