The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), in partnership with the University of Stirling, is offering the Masters in Human Rights and Diplomacy (MSc, LL.M) programme for students and professionals seeking advanced knowledge in international human rights, diplomacy, law and global governance.
The programme combines academic study with practical training from experienced UN professionals, focusing on human rights law, international relations, negotiation, leadership, advocacy and diplomatic practice.
Programme Overview
Programme: Masters in Human Rights and Diplomacy (MSc, LL.M)
Institution: University of Stirling, United Kingdom
Partner: United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR)
Study Mode: Full-time, in-person
Duration: 12 months
Start Date: January 2027
Location: Stirling, Scotland, United Kingdom
International Student Deadline: November 2026 (exact date to be confirmed)
About the Programme
The Human Rights and Diplomacy programme provides students with a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience.
Participants study:
- Human rights law and politics
- History and foundations of UN human rights institutions
- International diplomacy
- Negotiation and public speaking
- Leadership and advocacy skills
- International relations frameworks
The programme is designed for students from backgrounds including:
- Law
- Politics
- International Relations
- Philosophy
- Sociology
- Related social sciences
Students can pursue either:
- Master of Science (MSc)
- Master of Laws (LL.M)
Unique UN Learning Experience
A major feature of the programme is a study visit to Geneva, where students can experience the work of:
- United Nations institutions
- The Human Rights Council
- International diplomatic organisations
During the final semester, students with strong profiles may have the opportunity to apply for practical training placements within:
- The UN system
- UN-affiliated organisations
- Human rights organisations
Students may also complete professional projects or an academic dissertation.
Learning Outcomes
By completing the programme, students will be able to:
- Analyse and apply international human rights law
- Understand diplomacy, international relations and global governance
- Debate major challenges and criticisms surrounding human rights
- Prepare diplomatic and policy documents
- Develop negotiation and advocacy skills
- Navigate UN human rights institutions and NGO environments
- Apply research methods in human rights activism and policy work
Who Should Apply?
This programme is suitable for:
- Recent graduates interested in international careers
- Human rights advocates
- Future diplomats
- NGO professionals
- Policy professionals
- Legal practitioners
- International development specialists
Applicants should have an interest in:
- Human rights institutions
- Multilateral diplomacy
- International law
- Global governance
Fees and Funding
UK and Republic of Ireland Students
Tuition Fee: £11,500 (2026–2027 academic year)
International Students
Tuition Fee: £24,300 (2026–2027 academic year)
Scholarships
Partial scholarships are available through the University of Stirling.
Entry Requirements
Applicants normally require:
- A minimum second-class honours degree or equivalent qualification
Applicants without formal academic qualifications may still be considered if they have significant relevant professional or life experience.
Eligible academic backgrounds include:
- Law
- Politics
- Philosophy
- Sociology
- Related disciplines
English Language Requirements
Applicants whose first language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency.
Accepted qualifications include:
- IELTS Indicator: 6.5 overall (minimum 6.0 in each skill)
- Cambridge C1 Advanced: 176 overall
- Cambridge C2 Proficiency: 180 overall
- Pearson Test of English Academic: 62 overall
- TOEFL iBT: 80 overall
- Trinity ISE qualifications
- Aptis English assessment
Career Opportunities
Graduates can pursue careers in:
- United Nations agencies
- International organisations
- Human rights institutions
- Government ministries
- Diplomatic services
- NGOs
- International development organisations
- Research institutions
- Policy organisations
The programme develops skills valued in international careers, including:
- Policy analysis
- Negotiation
- Advocacy
- Research
- International communication
Application Process
Applications are submitted through the University of Stirling application system.
Applicants should prepare:
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificates
- English language evidence (where required)
- Supporting documents required by the university
SEO Keywords: UNITAR Masters in Human Rights and Diplomacy 2027, MSc Human Rights and Diplomacy UK, LL.M Human Rights programme, United Nations courses for graduates, University of Stirling scholarships 2027, diplomacy masters degree UK, international relations masters UK, human rights law scholarship opportunities, UN training programmes, global governance postgraduate programmes.
For more opportunities like these, be sure to follow us on Facebook, join our WhatsApp Group and Channel
Also Check
United Nations University (UNU) Career Opportunities 2026: Global Jobs and Internship Openings
Shell Graduate Programme 2027 in the UK Applications Open September 2026
Bank of America Neighborhood Builders Program 2027 for Nonprofits Opens Spring 2027
Business & Industrial
Human Rights Watch Africa Division Intern 2026: Great Lakes Region Internship
