MPhil Human Rights at University of Stirling

Programme overview

A one-year full-time research Masters in which students develop advanced research skills and write a dissertation of up to 50,000 words offering original arguments or recommendations in human rights. Strong performance can allow transfer to a PhD between months 6 and 8.

Duration: 12 months full-time | Intake: January 2027 | Study mode: full-time | Location: Stirling, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Supervised research across areas including human rights, health, gender and sexualities, migration and refugee studies, international institutions, business, environment and climate justice, conflict, security, AI and technology, children's rights, philosophical foundations and disability rights. Students can opt for a placement with an NGO, research institute or advocacy organisation, and join the University of Stirling Human Rights Journal.

Career pathways

Careers in academia, research institutions, non-governmental organisations, international agencies and government.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

An upper second class honours Bachelors degree or higher qualification; for some studentships and programmes a suitable masters degree may be specified. The application requires a research proposal, funding plan, proof of qualifications, an academic reference and a CV. English language (applicants whose first language is not English): IELTS Academic or UKVI 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each sub-skill; Pearson Test of English (Academic) 62 overall with 60 in each sub-skill; TOEFL (taken before 21 January 2026) 88 overall with 20 reading, 19 writing, 19 listening and 22 speaking; TOEFL (taken from 21 January 2026) 4.5 overall with no less than 4 in any band.

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,238 a year (2026/27). UK (home) full-time rate, all subjects; part-time £2,619 per year Source

International applicants: GBP 21,500 a year (2026/27). International full-time rate; part-time £10,750 per year; registration-only fee £500 after the fee-paying years Source

Intake: January 2027

Duration: 12 months full-time

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