The Master’s Degree in Human Rights (MAHR) is a multidisciplinary degree within the Department of Political Science in the Faculty of LPS and will include courses from POS, IAF, NGO, INL, and CPL. The MAHR was designed to give graduates a multi-dimensional approach to human rights that includes both a grasp of the relevant theories, laws, and international treaties, as well as an introduction to the practical skills involved in the field, using follow up mechanisms, reporting, advocacy, lobbying, networking, social change agendas, and transformation of conflicts.
Program Educational Objectives
The M.A. in Political Science - Human Rights Concentration inspired by the mission of the University is designed to build on development objectives in the area of forming individuals from Lebanon and the region to acquire the knowledge and tools necessary to become actors of change in their respective societies. Within this context of mainstreaming and networking HR, the master’s degree in the field will greatly facilitate its ongoing teaching, service, and research activities. This program will enable its graduates to not only interface with HR studies in the MENA region, but will also help establish a bridge to the latest international discourses and theories.
Program Learning Outcomes
Students who successfully complete the program will be able to:
- 1.Demonstrate a thorough knowledge of all the international human rights conventions;
- 2.Engage in critical analysis of the politics of human rights;
- 3.Actively participate in developing a national action plan for human rights development in several issue areas;
- 4.Write proposals for funding and research development in any area related to human rights.
Admission Requirements
In addition to the University graduate admission requirements, applicants should have a B.A. in Political Science, or Public Administration, or International Affairs and Diplomacy, International Law, or other related fields.
Successful passing of the EET Entrance Exam with a minimum score of 600 is required (p. 66 general catalogue), students’ undergraduate GPA of 3.0 minimum, work experience, letters of recommendation, motivation for a career and leadership are all taken into consideration. The Faculty may require the GRE exam for non-NDU students, and the following prerequisite courses may be required of non-major applicants.
- 1.M.A. in Political Science: IAF 211, POS 201, POS 210 or equivalent by petition;
- 2.M.A. in Public Administration: PAD 201, POS 201, POS 210 or equivalent by petition;
- 3.M.A. in International Affairs and Diplomacy: IAF 211, IAF 321, POS 201 or equivalent by petition;
- 4.M.A. in International Affairs and Diplomacy - International Law Emphasis: IAF 211, IAF 401, POS 442.
Graduation Requirements
Students seeking the degree of M.A. in GIR must meet the University graduation requirements and complete one of the following two options with a G.P.A. of at least 3.0/4.0: 36 credits of course work in addition to a comprehensive written and oral examination; or Successful completion of 30 credits course work and six credits thesis.