Modality
Face-to-face (Onsite)
Application Deadline
30 April 2026
M.A. in International Law and Human Rights
The Masters Programme in International Law and Human Rights is a comprehensive educational path that equips students with in-depth knowledge and understanding of the intersection between international law and human rights in today’s complex global society. Here are the key features of this program:
Global Perspective
Attracting students from around the world, this highly interactive and stimulating program is designed for both lawyers specializing in international human rights law and non-lawyers working in various dimensions of human rights protection. It ensures that graduates are well-prepared to work with inter-governmental, governmental, and non-governmental organizations.
Four Stages of Learning
- Transdisciplinary Foundations: The first stage focuses on foundational knowledge through UPEACE common courses, covering topics such as Conflict Resolution and Dispute Settlement, and the United Nations System.
- Core Foundational Courses: In the second stage, students delve into core courses related to international law, including public international law, human rights law, law related to armed conflicts, and humanitarian law.
- Specialization in Human Rights: The third stage allows students to gain expertise in thematic areas of human rights such as the protection of vulnerable persons and groups such as refugees, indigenous peoples, human rights defenders, amongst others. They gain skills in human rights monitoring, explore regional systems, and the intersections of human rights with environmental law, sustainable development, among others.
- Final Projects: In the fourth stage, students complete a final graduation project in the form of either an thesis, an internship with an international organization, or a capstone project.
Faculty and Diversity
The program boasts internationally recognized human rights scholars and practitioners as resident and visiting faculty members.
About the Programme
Admissions Requirements
Costs & Financial Aid
Student Life
Careers in Internationl Law
Frequently Asked Questions
Admissions Requirements
Costs & Financial Aid
Student Life
Careers in Internationl Law
Career Prospects
Graduates of this programmes will gain knowledge, skills, and capacities to work in the field of international law and human rights with the United Nations and other intergovernmental organizations, governmental agencies, non-governmental organizations, international and regional courts and tribunals, as well as in academia. Considering the broad range of the interface between international law and human rights which can range from protection of specific groups such as refugees, children, persons with disabilities, minorities and racially disadvantaged persons, indigenous people etc. the faculty assists students to identify their areas of interests and guides them towards appropriate career opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the start date of this programme?
The start date of this programme is 7 September 2026. Orientation is scheduled for 31 August-4 September 2026.
How much does this programme cost?
The cost of the programme is $19,500.00 USD.
Are there scholarships available?
Yes, scholarships are available. Please refer to the programme webpage for details. You can also consult our scholarships page here.
Can I pay for this programme in instalments?
Yes, this programme is payable in 2-3 instalments.
Is this programme available online?
No. This is a synchronous face-to-face program, with eventually some courses being taught online.
What is the duration of this programme?
The duration of this programme is 2 semesters of course work with an extended time of 6 months to complete the final graduation project (a capstone project, internship, or thesis). The total time is approximately 18 months.
What is the final graduation project?
Students have three options for completing their graduation requirement:
1. Capstone Project
2. Internship
3. Thesis
Is this programme offered part-time or full-time?
This is a full-time programme.
Where is the campus located and what are the nearby towns like?
Our campus offers a unique setting in the tranquil, mountainous landscape of El Rodeo de Mora, Colón. You’ll enjoy the benefits of a quiet, natural environment without being isolated. Just a short 7-kilometer trip down the mountain brings you to the welcoming town of Ciudad Colón. Here, you can find everything you need for daily life, from banks and large supermarkets to local farmers’ markets, cozy coffee shops, and fitness centres. When you’re looking for a wider selection of stores and entertainment, you’re only 15 km from a large shopping mall and about 20 km from the cultural and urban offerings of the capital city, San José.
Is the campus accessible by public transportation?
The UPEACE campus in El Rodeo is not directly served by frequent public buses. To ensure easy access for all students, the university operates a complimentary private shuttle system.
Key Transportation Services:
• Ciudad Colón Shuttle: This is the primary service, making regular rounds between campus and the central hub of Ciudad Colón. From there, you can find more frequent public buses to other destinations.
• Staff Bus: This service extends your reach to the San Pedro/Montes de Oca area, home to the University of Costa Rica (UCR). This is ideal for students who live in or frequently travel to the eastern part of the San José metropolitan area.
Both services are free of charge for enrolled UPEACE students, making daily commuting both accessible and affordable.
Are the accommodations included in the tuition fee?
No, accommodations are not included in the tuition fee. This allows you the flexibility to choose from a wide range of housing options in the area based on your preferences and budget.
You can explore the available housing options here.
What does the housing situation close to the campus look like?
Upon acceptance to your programme, you will receive access to our exclusive housing platform. This platform lists a variety of accommodations to suit different needs and budgets in two primary locations:
• El Rodeo: The area closest to the UPEACE campus.
• Ciudad Colón: The nearby town, which offers more services.
Options typically include rooms in host families, studios, apartments, and shared houses.
For more information, please visit our housing page or contact our Housing Officer, Álvaro Castro, at acastro@upeace.org.
Is there a cafeteria on campus?
Yes. Our on-campus cafeteria offers a variety of meals, including breakfast, lunch, snacks, and smoothies, with options available for all dietary needs. For a different dining experience, UPEACE also operates a restaurant in its recreational park, which is open on weekends and holidays.
How can I obtain a Costa Rican visa?
The visa process varies for each student. After you are accepted into a programme, our dedicated Visa Officer will contact you to provide personalized guidance and support throughout the application process.
For general information, you can refer to our visa page. For specific questions, please email our Visa Officer, Cynthia Díaz, directly at cdiaz@upeace.org.
What is the admission process for this programme?
The process begins once we receive your complete application. It involves two key steps:
• First, our admissions team conducts an administrative review to ensure all documents are in order.
• Then, your application is evaluated by the programme’s academic committee, who makes the final admission decision based on your qualifications.
You will be notified of the outcome as soon as the evaluation is complete.
In what language is this programme taught?
The programme is fully taught in English.
What department does the International Law and Human Rights programme belong to?
This programme belongs to the Department of International Law.
Where do students work after graduating?
Our alumni work in a variety of fields and organizations. Some work for the United Nations or other intergovernmental organizations, some work at international or regional courts, some for governments including in diplomacy and civil service, some for non-governmental organizations (NGOs), while others follow a career in academia or the private sector such as law firms.
Does UPEACE help students find internships?
Our department faculty and staff assist you in identifying options for potential internships. We assign a personal supervisor to each student to work one-on-one on identifying the best options, considering the entry and exit profiles of students and their career interests.
Where are the professors in the programme from?
Our resident and visiting faculty members come from a variety of countries and backgrounds. Currently, we have professors from India, Venezuela, the Netherlands, Japan, Egypt, Costa Rica, South Africa, Mexico, Germany, the Philippines, and the United States of America.
How are courses organized?
Courses are generally organized in modules of one, two or three weeks. Each week comprises three hours of classes on each of the five working days (Saturday and Sunday are days off). At any given time, students undertake one specific course. Courses do not run through semesters. This allows the Department to bring the crème-de-la-crème among the experts and practitioners from around the world. Students receive a reader on our Learning Management System which details the readings and other material assigned for each day. Students must complete these daily readings before their next class.
What do the course assignments look like?
Assignments vary significantly across courses. Some courses that focus on foundational concepts may entail assignments that are more research-based, while those that focus on skills may entail hands-on assignments. Possible assignments include take-home exams, research essays, policy briefs, quizzes, individual or group presentations, simulations, case studies, moot courts, other forms of in-class activities, and oral exams.
Are there research and publication opportunities for students?
Yes, the Department has active lines of research and students are encouraged to join as assistants. Additionally, students can have their academic research papers published in our in-house Ideas for Peace platform.
Are there additional benefits to enrolling in this programme?
Yes, the programme engages professionals and experts from around the world, including senior officials at the UN and international courts. These networks have benefited students and graduates significantly. Additionally, students come from many countries and ensure a rich multicultural learning environment in our classrooms. In addition to receiving academic credits, some courses also allow students to receive certificates of training (i.e. from the ICRC or UNHCR) that can help enhance their CVs. Students also engage with lawyers at the Inter-American Court of Human Rights and have the opportunity to visit the Court.
Can students engage with the UPEACE Human Rights Centre?
Yes, the Department also hosts the UPEACE Human Rights Centre, which offers professional development diplomas and courses for working practitioners. The Centre also carries out research and implements projects for UN partners, including the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. Students can directly engage as research or teaching assistants with the Centre. Find out more here.
Are there opportunities for extra-curricular activities?
Yes, there are many opportunities. Student-led clubs are a core part of campus life, with regular activities for yoga, football, volleyball, ping pong, Spanish classes, and more.
Beyond clubs, we host a series of “Brown-bag” lunchtime events throughout the year. These informal sessions feature special lectures from invited experts, practitioners, alumni, and faculty, providing a platform for informal learning and discussion. Students are also encouraged to organise their own events based on their interested and areas of expertise.
Programme Brochure
