MSc Politics and International Relations (Conflict, Rights and Justice)

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

SOAS University of London

Program Overview

The MSc Politics and International Relations (Conflict, Rights and Justice) at SOAS University of London is a one-year full-time (or part-time option) pathway perfect for students eyeing careers in human rights, humanitarian aid, or transitional justice, especially those passionate about global challenges in a shifting world. You'll dive into critical debates on the future of human rights amid declining Western influence, questioning the legitimacy of transitional justice and humanitarian interventions, while gaining hands-on access to the SOAS Centre on Conflict, Rights and Justice for seminars, workshops, expert briefings, a student blog, social events, and competitive internships.

### Curriculum Structure
This one-year program (180 credits total) builds advanced research skills aligned with ESRC guidelines through lectures, two-hour seminars with student presentations, and independent paper-writing, culminating in a dissertation. In your study year, you'll start with core modules like foundational research training, then select 45-75 credits from guided options (including politics-specific choices), up to 15 credits from open options like languages, and tailor the rest around the pathway's focus on conflict, rights, and justice—allowing flexibility to specialize upon arrival.

You'll explore the politics of human rights and conflict through guided options such as modules on international human rights mechanisms, transitional justice processes, and humanitarian intervention ethics, critically assessing their effectiveness in post-conflict settings. Seminars emphasize real-world application, like evaluating aid's role in rights protection, while participating in Centre activities sharpens your practical insights for fieldwork or policy roles. The dissertation lets you apply these skills to a personalized topic, such as justice in the global South, building a portfolio for impactful careers.

### Focus Areas
International politics of human rights, transitional justice, humanitarianism and aid, religion and politics in conflict zones, civil liberties, and post-conflict reconstruction—especially evaluating norms, policies, and institutions for global peace and security.

### Learning Outcomes
Gain ESRC-level research training for rigorous analysis of conflict dynamics; develop critical thinking on rights legitimacy and intervention effectiveness; acquire practical skills through Centre engagements like seminars, briefings, and internships; and build expertise for advocacy, policy, or academic paths in a multipolar world.

### Professional Alignment (Accreditation)
Trains to ESRC research guidelines, making graduates eligible for ESRC-funded PhD study; no formal accreditation noted, but aligns with careers in humanitarian assistance, transitional justice, and rights organizations via Centre's professional trainings and internship scheme.

### Reputation (Employability Rankings)
SOAS ranks 11th in the UK for Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions (recent national rankings), reflecting strengths in human rights, conflict resolution, and global governance programs. Department graduates excel with transferable skills like critical analysis and cultural awareness, fueling success in NGOs, policy, and international roles.

Ready to take the next step? Apply now: [MSc Politics and International Relations (Conflict, Rights and Justice)](https://www.soas.ac.uk/study/find-course/msc-politics-and-international-relations-conflict-rights-and-justice).

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the MSc Politics of Conflict, Rights and Justice at SOAS University of London, you'll dive into hands-on learning that builds real-world skills in analysing conflict, human rights, and justice—think engaging with cutting-edge research projects and expert-led discussions that sharpen your critical thinking and policy insights. You'll have access to the vibrant Centre on Conflict, Rights and Justice (CCRJ), right in the Department of Politics and International Studies, which hosts workshops, speaker series, and collaborative projects connecting you with scholars, practitioners, and advocates on topics like transitional justice and humanitarianism. This setup lets you contribute to live research and network with global players, turning theory into practical expertise for careers in NGOs, government, or international orgs.

Here are some standout ways you'll gain that experiential edge:
- Join ongoing research projects at CCRJ, such as "Reframing Justice after Atrocity" (exploring justice in Latin America, Europe, and Africa), "Civic Infrastructures of Torture" (using exclusive archives on Israeli security practices), and "Migration Governance and Diplomacy" (analysing refugee crises' impact on policy)—perfect for group-based, interdisciplinary work.
- Participate in research workshops, speaker series, and manuscript readings hosted by CCRJ, fostering collaboration with visiting scholars and practitioners on human rights futures, faith-based humanitarianism, and post-conflict stability.
- Engage in student-centred activities like group discussions, practical exercises, and seminars in related politics programmes, building analytical and cultural awareness skills through real-world case studies.
- Access the SOAS research community via centres like the Centre for Human Rights Law, with events and opportunities to work alongside experts on global South-focused human rights and conflict issues.

This kind of practical immersion is why SOAS grads land roles at the UN, NGOs, and think tanks—imagine yourself there. Ready to apply? Check the full facilities and resources here: [SOAS Facilities List](https://www.soas.ac.uk/about/facilities). Let's chat about your background and get your application rolling!

Progression & Future Opportunities

At SOAS University of London, the MSc Politics of Conflict, Rights and Justice immerses you in hands-on learning through the Department of Politics and International Studies, where you'll build practical research skills via real-world projects on human rights, transitional justice, and conflict resolution. You'll engage directly with leading experts and global networks at the Centre on Conflict, Rights and Justice (CCRJ), diving into collaborative research on topics like the role of justice in ongoing conflicts, international courts, and faith-based humanitarianism—giving you tools to analyze and influence policy in post-conflict settings. This isn't just theory; our student-centered approach includes seminars, group discussions, and workshops that sharpen your analytical edge for careers in NGOs, government, or international organizations.

Here's how you'll gain that edge through specific program-linked opportunities and facilities:
- Access the SOAS Centre for Human Rights Law for events, research involvement, and networking with practitioners in human rights and justice—perfect for postgraduate students like you.
- Join cutting-edge research projects such as Reframing Justice after Atrocity (case studies across Latin America, Europe, and Africa) or Civic Infrastructures of Torture (using exclusive archives on Israeli security practices), often through group collaborations and manuscript readings at CCRJ.
- Participate in international study tours curated by faculty, connecting with practitioners across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East to apply conflict politics in real contexts.
- Engage in interdisciplinary forums like CCRJ workshops, speaker series, and grant projects on human rights futures and transitional justice impacts—building your network with scholars and advocates.
- Leverage SOAS's world-class libraries and digital research platforms, including the PACT project's advanced digital tools for exploring global constitutions and justice norms.

Imagine turning these experiences into your launchpad for impactful work—apply now and let's chat about how this fits your goals! For the full facilities list, check [SOAS Facilities](https://www.soas.ac.uk/about/facilities).