HRTS - Human Rights Studies Major

The study of human rights draws on multiple disciplines and perspectives to address fundamental questions relating to the humane treatment of people—theoretically, historically, and globally. Students explore the complexities underlying civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights. For example, what are internationally recognized human rights norms, and what are their origins and controversies? Why do human rights conditions vary so widely? How and why do human rights practices change, and how can more effective human rights policies be devised? How are human rights abuses and aspirations expressed through literature and the arts? And how might we approach the study of human rights critically, questioning its assumptions and applicability across diverse contexts? Students who wish to pursue an in-depth examination of human rights issues may undertake an individually tailored, interdisciplinary major in human rights studies. Student learning in the major is supplemented by co-curricular opportunities, including lectures, films, performances, exhibits, and internships.