A Ph D in Human Rights is a research-intensive program that focuses on the theoretical, legal, political, and social aspects of human rights, equipping scholars with analytical tools to critically examine issues like civil liberties, social justice, humanitarian law, and global governance.
To enrol in the Ph.D. Human Rights course, Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree and a master's degree with at least 50% marks from a recognised university, or an equivalent qualification. The selections are based on UGC NET, CSIR NET, DBT, and JRF/SRF, or equivalent Score, along with personal interview and group discussion.
The course fees for the Ph.D. Human Rights is somewhere between INR 1,70,000; the sole college offering the course is Jamia Hamdard University. Graduated with a Ph.D. Human Rights can work as a multidisciplinary professional with expertise in a University professor, lecturer, researcher, postdoctoral fellow, research analyst, corporate training manager, human rights consultant, operations manager, quality assurance manager, technical writer, and human rights policy analyst with various roles. The average salary after completing PhD in Human Rights ranges between INR 6 LPA to INR 13 LPA.
Table of Contents
- Ph.D in Human Rights Highlights
- What is a Ph.D. Human Rights?
- Why Study a Ph.D. Human Rights?
- Who should study a Ph.D in Human Rights?
- Ph.D Human Rights Eligibility Criteria
- Ph.D Human Rights Entrance Exams
- Ph.D. Human Rights Colleges in India
- Ph.D. Human Rights Admission Process 2025
- Ph.D Human Rights Syllabus
- Ph.D. Human Rights Vs MPhil in Human Rights Course Comparison
- Ph.D. Human Rights Job Opportunities in India
- Ph.D Human Rights FAQs
Ph.D in Human Rights Highlights
Given below are some of the basic course highlights for the PhD in Human Rights:
What is a Ph.D. Human Rights?
A Ph D Human Rights is a research-intensive doctoral program that focuses on the theoretical, legal, political, and social aspects of human rights at national and international levels. This interdisciplinary degree equips scholars with the analytical tools to critically examine issues like civil liberties, social justice, humanitarian law, and global governance.
Students explore historical developments, ethical foundations, and contemporary challenges related to human rights, drawing from fields like law, political science, sociology, international relations, and philosophy. Graduates often pursue careers in academia, international organisations, research institutes, government agencies, NGOs, and policy-making bodies, where they influence global human rights discourse and advocacy efforts.
Why Study a Ph.D. Human Rights?
A Ph D Human Rights provides a unique opportunity to engage with pressing social, political, and legal issues. It allows scholars to explore the complexities of human dignity, justice, and equality across cultures, legal systems, and geopolitical landscapes.
- In an increasingly interconnected world, a doctoral degree empowers individuals to critically analyse these challenges and contribute meaningful solutions through research, education, and policy.
- Pursuing a Ph.D in this field helps develop a sophisticated understanding of international human rights law, humanitarian norms, and frameworks used to protect vulnerable populations.
- This knowledge can be applied to real-world contexts, allowing graduates to influence change through academic work and direct engagement with international bodies, advocacy groups, or governmental agencies.
- The program encourages original thought and innovation, fostering the ability to question existing norms and propose alternative, inclusive approaches to human rights protection and enforcement.
- A Ph.D in Human Rights prepares students for leadership roles in academia, global human rights institutions, public policy, and civil society.
Who should study a Ph.D in Human Rights?
A Ph D Human Rights is a program designed for individuals with a strong academic background in fields such as law, political science, international relations, sociology, philosophy, or development studies who are committed to promoting justice, equality, and human dignity globally.
- This program is particularly beneficial for those with a clear research interest in human rights issues, such as conflict resolution, humanitarian law, refugee rights, minority protection, gender justice, and freedom of expression.
- It is also well-suited for professionals and activists working in NGOs, international organisations, legal systems, or governmental bodies, who seek to strengthen their theoretical grounding and contribute to the field through academic or policy-oriented research.
- The Ph.D provides the methodological training and scholarly depth required to teach, publish, and lead in higher education institutions, as well as to shape discourse and practice on local, national, and international levels.
- The program is for passionate, intellectually curious individuals who are committed to making a difference in the real world and require perseverance, analytical rigour, and a strong ethical foundation.
Ph.D Human Rights Eligibility Criteria
Given below are the Ph.D Human Rights eligibility criteria are as follows:
- Candidates must have a master's degree, such as M.A./LLM in Human Rights, with at least 50% marks from a recognised university, or an equivalent qualification.
- The selection process will prioritise candidates with prior experience in the health and development sector.
- Candidates with professional degrees are also eligible at many institutes, provided they have good academic records.
- A valid national-level fellowship or entrance exam qualification is usually required, such as UGC, CSIR, ICMR, DBT and JRF/SRF, or equivalent.
Ph.D Human Rights Entrance Exams
Given below is the Ph.D. Human Rights entrance exam, along with the application date and application fees.
Ph.D. Human Rights Colleges in India
Given below are the top Ph.D. Human Rights colleges in India.
Ph.D. Human Rights Admission Process 2025
A Ph.D. Human Rights can be accessed through either the entrance examination mode or direct admission through a quota. The admission process at the Jamia Hamdard University is mentioned below:
Step 1: Visit the Jamia Hamdard University admissions official site and choose the Ph.D. Human Rights.
Step 2: Fill in the online application form with all the necessary details, upload scanned images of your photograph and signature, and pay the application fee online.
Step 3: Choose your admission mode: With a valid UGC, CSIR, ICMR, DBT and JRF/SRF, or equivalent Score.
Step 4: Complete the application and print it out for your records.
Step 5: Appear for either the UGC NET/CSIR NET/ICMR/DBT and JRF/SRF, or equivalent scores, both are valid and received.
Step 6: Wait for the release of merit lists: Each UGC, CSIR, ICMR, DBT and JRF/SRF, or equivalent participant has a separate merit list prepared by the Jamia Hamdard University.
Step 7: If shortlisted, go to the official site to see whether you have been selected, and follow the process for admission confirmation.
Step 8: Confirm your seat by paying the admission fee.
Step 9: Complete the document verification as per the institute's requirements.
Step 10: Now, receive the details regarding the commencement of classes after completing the formalities.
Documentation Required:
- 10th and 12th mark sheets.
- Graduation Marksheets
- Aadhar Card
- PAN Card
- Migration certificate
- Character certificate
- School Leaving Certificate
- Passport-size photographs
- Signature.
- Caste Certificate (If any)
- Income proof
Ph.D Human Rights Syllabus
The Ph D in Human Rights syllabus covers advanced research methodology, strategic Human Rights management, service marketing, consumer behaviour, and sustainability in tourism, with a dissertation based on original research in a specialised area.
Given below is the syllabus of the PhD in Human Rights from Jamia Hamdard University, Delhi:
Ph.D. Human Rights Vs MPhil in Human Rights Course Comparison
Given below is a course comparison between the Ph.D. Human Rights and the MPhil (Master of Philosophy) in Human Rights:
Ph.D. Human Rights Job Opportunities in India
Given below are the job opportunities one can pursue after a Ph.D. Human Rights.
Ph.D Human Rights FAQs
How can interdisciplinary research enhance the scope of a Ph D in Human Rights?
Interdisciplinary research enhances a Ph D in Human Rights by integrating various fields like law, sociology, political science, psychology, gender studies, environmental science, and public health. This approach offers a comprehensive understanding of complex human rights issues, enabling the development of multi-sectoral solutions.
What are the ethical challenges faced during human rights field research, and how are they addressed?
Field research in human rights often involves working with vulnerable populations like refugees, conflict survivors, or marginalised communities. Ethical challenges include informed consent, confidentiality, avoiding retraumatization, and managing power dynamics. Researchers must follow IRB guidelines, use trauma-informed methodologies, and undergo ethics training.
Is international collaboration common during a Ph D in Human Rights, and how can students access such opportunities?
Yes, International collaboration in human rights research is encouraged through exchange fellowships, joint projects, and partnerships with global institutions like the UN, Amnesty International, and regional networks. Students can access these opportunities through university-sponsored MoUs, global research grants, international conferences, and collaborative doctoral programs.
How can Ph.D. Human Rights scholars contribute to policy-making beyond academia?
Ph.D. holders in Human Rights work as policy consultants, legal advisors, or think tank researchers, shaping white papers, legislative drafts, NGO advocacy strategies, and government frameworks. They influence reforms in refugee rights, prison systems, digital freedoms, and socio-economic justice through publishing policy briefs, testifying, and advisory panels.
What role does technology play in advancing research during a Ph D in Human Rights?
Technology is revolutionising human rights research by enabling data visualisation, digital ethnography, remote interviews, AI-assisted text analysis, real-time conflict monitoring, and digital archiving. However, researchers must critically examine emerging technologies like facial recognition, surveillance tools, and algorithmic bias to ensure their ethical implications.
