University of Oslo

Advanced Course on Human Rights

Oslo, 23 June – 3 August 2012

Course content

The course (in English) focuses on human rights in theory and practice. Students will develop knowledge about human rights from both legal and social perspectives. Challenges for implementing human rights in different parts of the world will also be highlighted and examined. Principles of human rights relating to terrorism, religion, ethnicity, indigenous peoples, transitional justice, gender and development are studied.

Learning outcomes

To provide students with a foundation for an understanding of institutions and mechanisms for the protection and promotion of human rights as well as recognising the shortcomings of the processes involved.

Admission

If you would like to take this course, you must apply directly to the International Summer School . Only students admitted to the course may take part in instruction. The examination in this course is not available for external candidates. Only students admitted to the course may sit for the examination.

Prerequisites

A completed Bachelor’s degree or a period of study comparable with a Norwegian Bachelor's degree from a recognised institution.

Recommended prior knowledge

Scholarship-seeking applicants with a related degree in law, social sciences and/or humanities are given priority. Documented professional experience may also qualify scholarship-seeking applicants even though their academic background does not match the course profile.

Teaching

The course consists of 26 lectures, 3 hours daily (9:15-12:00), Monday to Friday, for six weeks. Classroom sessions include lectures and group discussions. A class excursion is included. A detailed syllabus will be available prior to the start of the course. Daily attendance is expected of all participants. Students must attend 75% of the lectures in order to take the final exam.

Exam information

The course includes a final written exam and a take-home examination. Students must attend 75% of the lectures in order to take the final exam. The written exam lasts for 4 hours and counts for 40% of the total grade. The take-home examination counts for 60% of the total grade.