Overview

The American University in Cairo provides a dynamic environment in which to study International Human Rights Law. Located in the heart of one of the great cities of both Africa and the Middle East, the University offers an innovative two year Masters Degree in International Human Rights Law. Students enrolled in the program have the opportunity to develop a comprehensive understanding of International Human Rights through a combination of coursework, various student activities and in depth research, culminating in a semester devoted to writing a thesis in a carefully chosen area of interest.

The Program, which is expanding its network of contacts throughout Africa and the Middle East, prepares students to work in the field or in an academic setting. This is achieved by equipping students with a broad base of knowledge, facilitating contacts with individuals in other Human Rights programs, as well as providing opportunities to practically apply their knowledge. Consequently, an MA in International Human Rights Law is appropriate for students with both legal and non-legal backgrounds who have a strong interest in Human Rights. It is also possible to obtain a diploma in Forced Migration and Refugee Studies in conjunction with the master’s degree in International Human Rights Law.

Admission Requirements

Students come to AUC from all over the world, forming a diverse student body with a variety of background and perspectives.

Admission at the Law Department is very competitive and the number of qualified candidates exceeds the number of offers of admission available. Each application is considered in its entirety, including transcript, extracurricular and community activities, work experience, personal background, two letters of recommendation and a personal statement.

Admission requires a bachelor’s degree with at least a 3.0 GPA (Grade Point Average) and proficiency in the English language. Proficiency in English is determined by taking either the ELPET (English Language Proficiency Entrance Test) that AUC administers, or the TOEFL examination administered in Egypt by AMIDEAST. Students who fail to pass one of these English examinations at the necessary level must take a course or courses in English as a prerequisite. Students who have graduated from an accredited university where the language of instruction is English may be exempted from these examinations.

Courses