Course overview
The Master of Human Rights promotes a critical understanding of the discourse that enables policy workers, lawyers, educators, social workers and journalists to contribute to the development, protection and application of human rights.
This courses suit those who want to enter the field of human rights or add a human rights perspective to their profession; and to those working in the field who wish to enhance their knowledge in a particular area of human rights practice or advocacy.
Using both theoretical and practical learning methods, you’ll examine modern human-rights institutions and explore the philosophical and political development of beliefs about human rights that underpin current systems. You’ll consider how social movements, grass-roots campaigns, and government and non-government organisations have contributed to human rights practices and activism.
The courses examine the subject from multidisciplinary, multicultural and multireligious perspectives to ensure you develop a globalised understanding.
Students who complete the master degree to a high standard can apply for doctoral-level studies.
Career outcomes
The future of human rights
The world is becoming increasingly complex where the interests of multinationals, organisations and communities intersect.
Curtin’s postgraduate human rights courses emphasise the importance of human dignity and environmental protection. Our students learn the concepts and skills required to enable them to understand how accountability, justice, fairness, inclusion and human dignity can be realised.
Industries
- International relations
- Human resources
- Global health
- Law
- Media
- Education
- United Nations organisations
- NGOs
Your student experience
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Develop real-world experience before you graduate. Learn how work-integrated learning helps you build career skills and connect with industry early.
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Find your entry pathway to Curtin
You may be finishing high school, coming from TAFE, or just thinking of a career change; but whatever your background, there’s an entry pathway to Curtin for you.
Upcoming events
24 May 2026
Curtin Open Day
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Discover where in the world a Curtin Degree can take you at Curtin Open Day. Explore courses that connect with industry, meet people who can guide your career direction and see how your ideas can become a reality.
Entry requirements
Subject to the duration of the course applicants usually require a Bachelor Degree or equivalent (and may require relevant work experience), Bachelor Honours Degree, Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma. Any specific course entry and completion requirements must also be met.
Course-specific requirements
You’ll also need to meet any specific requirements to be eligible to apply for this course.
Study credit and support
You may be able to receive credit for recognised learning (CRL) from past study or professional experience, which could reduce the time it takes to finish your course.
Find specific details about CRL for this course on the Handbook.
Fees
2026 Domestic indicative fees
Domestic fee-paying first-year fee
$24,738*
Important information about fees
- *Fees are indicative only
- First year fees are based on a first-year full-time study load of 200 credit points. Your fees will vary depending on the units you choose.
- This indicative fee does not include other fees like administrative and incidental fees (such as lab coats or art supplies) or the cost of your textbooks. Visit other fees and charges for more information.
Scholarships
Get the support you need to succeed with our diverse range of scholarships. Whether it’s financial support, assistance with relocation, or recognition for your academic achievements, we have scholarships tailored to your unique needs.
How to apply
Follow these steps to make sure you’re eligible, prepared and ready to apply for your course.
Check entry requirements
Entry requirements differ by course and your previous work and study experience.
Prepare your documents
The documents you need may vary depending on your course and application pathway.
Check application deadlines
Deadlines vary by course and whether you’re applying as a domestic or international student.
Your application pathway
To apply for this course, you’ll apply directly to Curtin via our online applications portal.
Choose your preferred campus to find the application opening and closing dates for this course before you apply.
Select your preferred campus
| Intake | Applications open | Applications close |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 1, 2026 | 21 Apr 2025 | Applications now closed |
| Semester 2, 2026 | Applications now open | 5 Jul 2026 |
| Semester 1, 2027 | Applications now open | 28 Jan 2027 |
| Semester 2, 2027 | 1 Mar 2027 | 1 Jul 2027 |
Location and delivery
Thinking about starting soon? Course availability can vary by location and study period. Check the course handbook for details on when and where you can start your studies.
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