COURSE CURRICULUM

Human Rights at St. Thomas University, students are required to earn a minimum of 36 credit hours in Human Rights courses, structured to provide both foundational knowledge and specialized study across multiple areas. The program includes 9 credit hours of core courses: Introduction to Human Rights, Research Methods, and a Capstone Seminar, which together develop essential theoretical understanding, research skills, and advanced independent learning. In addition, students must complete at least 6 credit hours in each of four key subfields: Foundations, Law, Social Issues, and Practice. The Foundations area includes courses such as Human Rights in Theory and Practice, Non-Western Perspectives on Human Rights, and Philosophy of Human Rights, which explore theoretical and global perspectives. The Law subfield covers topics like discrimination law in Canada, genocide and war crimes, international human rights, and human rights in foreign policy. The Social Issues area examines contemporary concerns such as disability, environment, LGBTQIA+ rights, business ethics, and human rights in literature and popular culture. The Practice subfield focuses on applied learning through internships, advocacy, activism, social media engagement, and Moot Court participation. Students must consult the department chair to ensure all requirements are met, ensuring a well-rounded preparation for careers in law, policy, advocacy, and social justice.