Certificate in Human Rights and International Justice

Certificate in Human Rights and International Justice

Since 2007, the Center for Human Rights and International Justice at Boston College has offered an interdisciplinary Certificate in Human Rights and International Justice to students in BC’s graduate and professional schools. The program is designed to address the increasing complexity of human rights issues in a globalized world. Certificate students learn to think critically within and across disciplines to grasp more fully contemporary human rights challenges and to be better prepared to offer thoughtful and effective responses.

At a Glance

How many courses?


This program consists of 4 courses for a total of 12 credits.

How long will it take?


The certificate requirements may be completed in one year.

Curriculum

To earn the certificate, each student must complete three courses from the Center’s approved course list—two from within the student’s academic discipline, and one course from outside, as well as the Center’s interdisciplinary seminar in human rights and international justice.

Requirements


  • Courses: 4
  • Credits: 12

Faculty

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The certificate program is open to students who are registered in BC’s graduate and professional schools.

Deadlines

Rolling Admissions

Application & Deadlines

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Deadline: Rolling admissions

Note: Certificate Program applications are considered on a rolling basis; however, preference for enrollment in selected certificate courses is given to students already accepted into the program, so applying as early as possible is recommended.  As well, if you are enrolled in a one-year Master's program, please submit your application early in the Fall semester.

Resume

In addition to your academic history and relevant work experience, please include:

  • Any teaching or counseling experience (including any licenses already held);
  • Any social justice related experience; 
  • Any language skills other than English (especially Spanish language skills) and;
  • Any research experience or publications

Personal Statement

To be uploaded to your online Application Form.

In 1,000-1,500 words, describe your academic and professional goals, any experience relevant to this program, and your future plans, expectations, and aspirations.

Transcripts

All official undergraduate and graduate transcripts must be sent to our office before the application deadline. Please note the following:

  • Only official sealed (unopened) transcripts are acceptable. An official postsecondary transcript must be printed on official institutional paper and include at least one of the following: an institutional watermark, the registrar’s signature, or the registrar's seal.

  • Copies and unofficial transcripts sent directly from applicants are not acceptable, the transcript must come directly from the institution.

  • If you are a current student and have not completed your undergraduate and/or graduate degree, the most updated version of your transcript is acceptable.

Official electronic transcripts are accepted when sent directly to gsoe@bc.edu from the institution. When requesting electronic transcripts, you must manually type in gsoe@bc.edu to ensure it is received by our office. 

Mailed transcript(s) should be sent to the following address:

Lynch Office of Graduate Admissions, Boston College
Campion Hall 135
140 Commonwealth Avenue
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467

Current Lynch students interested in this certificate are strongly encouraged to meet with Center Assistant Director Timothy Karcz to discuss the program.

Contact Us

  gsoe@bc.edu
  617-552-4214