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Master of Arts in Human Rights Leadership and Divine Law

The Master of Arts in Human Rights Leadership and Divine Law aims to cultivate knowledgeable, ethical, and effective leaders who can integrate the principles of human rights with the moral and ethical guidelines provided by divine law from various religious traditions. The program is designed to empower students to address contemporary global challenges, promote social justice, and advocate for the protection and realization of human rights, guided by a deep understanding of divine law and higher moral standards.

​Key Purposes of the Program:

  • Integrate Human Rights and Divine Law:

    • Provide an interdisciplinary education that combines the study of human rights theories, laws, and practices with the moral and ethical teachings of divine law from various religious traditions. This integration fosters a holistic approach to understanding and addressing issues of justice, equity, and human dignity.

  • Develop Leadership Skills:

    • Equip students with the leadership skills necessary to advocate for human rights and social justice effectively. The program emphasizes ethical decision-making, critical thinking, and the ability to inspire and mobilize others towards positive social change.

  • Promote Ethical and Moral Conduct:

    • Encourage students to ground their human rights advocacy in the ethical and moral frameworks provided by divine law. This grounding ensures that their actions and decisions are guided by higher principles of justice, compassion, and righteousness.

  • Enhance Interfaith and Intercultural Understanding:

    • Foster a deep appreciation and understanding of diverse religious traditions and their perspectives on human rights and divine law. This interfaith and intercultural understanding is crucial for addressing global challenges in a pluralistic world.

  • Prepare for Diverse Careers:

    • Prepare graduates for careers in various sectors, including international organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), religious institutions, government agencies, and academic and research institutions. The program aims to develop professionals who can apply their knowledge and skills in diverse contexts to promote human rights and social justice.

  • Facilitate Practical Experience:

    • Provide opportunities for practical experience through internships, fieldwork, and community engagement. This hands-on experience is essential for students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges and develop practical skills in human rights advocacy and leadership.

  • Promote Social Justice and Equity:

    • Encourage students to use their knowledge and skills to address issues of injustice, inequality, and human suffering. The program aims to inspire graduates to become advocates for social justice and equity, working towards a more just and humane world.

  • Advance Academic and Practical Knowledge:

    • Contribute to the academic field of human rights and religious studies by advancing knowledge through research and scholarship. The program encourages students to engage in original research that explores the intersections of human rights and divine law.

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The Master of Arts in Human Rights Leadership and Divine Law seeks to develop leaders who are not only well-versed in human rights principles but also deeply rooted in the ethical and moral teachings of divine law. By integrating these two fields, the program aims to produce graduates who can effectively advocate for human rights, promote social justice, and lead with integrity and compassion in a diverse and interconnected world

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Program Overview:

The Master of Arts in Human Rights Leadership and Divine Law is an interdisciplinary graduate program designed to integrate the study of human rights with theological principles and divine law from various religious traditions. This program aims to prepare students to lead in the promotion and protection of human rights while grounded in the ethical and moral teachings of their faith.

Program Objectives:

  • Develop a deep understanding of human rights theories, legal frameworks, and practices.

  • Explore the concept of divine law in different religious traditions and its implications for human rights.

  • Cultivate leadership skills necessary for effective human rights advocacy and action.

  • Promote critical analysis of ethical issues through the lens of religious teachings and human rights principles.

  • Provide practical experience through internships, fieldwork, and community engagement.

Program Structure:

The program requires the completion of 36 credit hours, comprising core courses, electives, and a capstone project or thesis. Full-time students typically complete the program in two years, while part-time options are available.

Core Courses (18 credit hours):

  • Introduction to Human Rights (3 credits)

* Overview of human rights history, principles, and frameworks.

  • Divine Law in Comparative Religious Traditions (3 credits)

* Examination of the concept of divine law in various religious traditions, including Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism.

  • Human Rights Law and Policy (3 credits)

* Study of international human rights laws, treaties, and enforcement mechanisms.

  • Leadership and Ethics in Human Rights (3 credits)

* Development of leadership skills with a focus on ethical dilemmas and decision-making.

  • Research Methods in Human Rights and Divine Law (3 credits)

* Introduction to qualitative and quantitative research methods applicable to human rights and religious studies.

  • Human Rights Advocacy and Social Change (3 credits)

* Strategies and tools for effective advocacy and mobilizing social change.

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Elective Courses (12 credit hours):

  • Students choose from a range of electives to tailor their studies to specific interests. Possible electives include:

  • Comparative Religious Ethics and Human Rights

  • Religion, Law, and Public Policy

  • Gender, Religion, and Human Rights

  • Environmental Justice and Religious Perspectives

  • Religion and Conflict Resolution

  • Migration, Refugees, and Divine Law

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​Capstone Project/Thesis (6 credit hours):

  • Students must complete a capstone project or thesis that demonstrates their ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical issues in human rights and divine law. This project can take the form of original research, a policy analysis, or a field-based project.

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Practical Experience:

  • The program emphasizes experiential learning through:

  • Internships: Opportunities to work with human rights organizations, religious institutions, or NGOs.

  • Fieldwork: Hands-on experience in communities, addressing real-world human rights challenges.

  • Workshops and Seminars: Regular sessions with practitioners and experts in human rights and divine law.

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Admission Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.

  • Statement of purpose outlining the applicant's interest in human rights and divine law.

  • Letters of recommendation (2-3).

  • Resume or CV.

  • Academic transcripts.

  • Writing sample (optional).

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Career Outcomes:

  • Graduates of the program will be well-prepared for careers in:

  • International organizations (e.g., United Nations, Amnesty International)

  • Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)

  • Religious institutions and faith-based organizations

  • Government agencies

  • Academic and research institutions

  • Advocacy and policy organizations

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Program Benefits:

  • Interdisciplinary approach combining human rights and religious studies.

  • Development of practical leadership skills.

  • Opportunities for hands-on experience and professional networking.

  • Preparation for diverse career paths in human rights and social justice.

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Contact Information:

  • For more information about the program, application deadlines, and admission procedures, please contact the appropriate department at Customer-Relations@usild.us

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