Australian Catholic University

What you'll study

This degree provides a multidisciplinary foundation in human rights theory, law and practice. Core study areas include international human rights law, comparative constitutional protections, social justice theory, ethics and moral reasoning, Indigenous rights, migration and refugee issues, and the intersections of human rights with health and development.

Typical components include:

• Foundations of human rights: principles, history and major instruments and institutions that shape human rights protection.
• Human rights law and governance: domestic and international legal frameworks, treaty monitoring, and mechanisms of accountability.
• Policy and advocacy: policy analysis, campaigning strategies, stakeholder engagement and communications for change.
• Research methods: qualitative and quantitative approaches, ethical research practice, and data analysis relevant to human rights work.
• Specialist topics: Indigenous rights and self-determination, gender and sexual rights, refugee and migration law, business and human rights, health and human rights.
• Practical experience: placements, community-engaged projects or a capstone practicum that connect classroom learning with real-world human rights work.
• Electives and pathways: students can choose electives to deepen legal knowledge, pursue language study or combine the degree with complementary disciplines.

Entry requirements

Admission is generally based on completion of senior secondary education or an approved equivalent. Selection may take into account academic results, personal statements or a portfolio demonstrating relevant experience. Applicants with tertiary study, a vocational certificate or significant professional experience may be eligible for alternative entry pathways. International applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English, and domestic applicants who did not complete recent secondary study may be considered under mature‑age entry provisions.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles in non-government organisations, government agencies, community services and international organisations. Common career paths include:

• Human rights or advocacy officer in NGOs and community legal centres
• Policy officer or adviser in local, state or federal government
• Caseworker or program coordinator in refugee, migrant and social services
• Corporate social responsibility or human rights compliance roles in the private sector
• Research assistant or analyst in think tanks and research institutes
• Pathways to postgraduate study in law, public policy, international development or human rights research

Why study at Australian Catholic University

ACU emphasises values-driven education with a strong commitment to social justice and community engagement, making it well suited to human rights study. The university offers opportunities for applied learning through placements and partnerships with community organisations, and integrates Indigenous perspectives across the curriculum. ACU’s campuses and online delivery options provide flexible study arrangements, and the degree is designed to build both theoretical understanding and practical skills valued by employers and postgraduate programmes.