The program is unique among its peers for its interdisciplinary nature, linking human rights to development, health, security and humanitarian assistance, and for its emphasis on theory and practice. For breadth, the core curriculum offers courses in human rights theory, history, law, foreign policy and economic development. Courses with thematic perspectives link human rights to security, economic development, administration, gender and other issues.

For practical experience, students are offered skills courses, internships and opportunities for fieldwork in the U.S. and around the world. Through research centers, guest lectures, conferences and film series, students participate in a wide range of human rights research and advocacy projects. Graduates typically seek and obtain positions in international nonprofits, international rights advocacy organizations, international aid agencies, governmental and intergovernmental organizations, the human rights legal profession and academia.