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Post Graduate Diploma in Human Rights (PGDHR)

PG Diploma / Certification Full Time

Overview

The Post Graduate Diploma in Human Rights (PGDHR) is a specialized program designed to equip students with in-depth knowledge of international and domestic human rights laws, policies, and practices. It prepares individuals for careers in advocacy, policy-making, and legal services related to human rights.

Quick Highlights

Duration1-2 Years
LevelPost Graduate Diploma
EligibilityBachelor's Degree
Entrance ExamVaries by Institute
Avg FeesINR 20,000 - 1,00,000
Sarkari JobsAvailable

Why Study This Course?

Market Demand: Moderate/10
  • Develop a strong understanding of global and national human rights frameworks.
  • Gain practical skills in human rights advocacy, research, and reporting.
  • Prepare for impactful careers in NGOs, government bodies, and international organizations.
  • Contribute to social justice and the protection of vulnerable populations.
Who should study?

This course is ideal for law graduates, social workers, aspiring diplomats, journalists, activists, and anyone with a strong commitment to social justice and human rights who wants to gain specialized knowledge and skills to work in this critical field.

Eligibility & Admission

Minimum Qualification: Bachelor's Degree in any discipline from a recognized university.

Entrance Exams

Exam Name Conducting Body
University Entrance Test Individual Universities/Institutes

Fees & Approvals

Govt. Institute Fees

20,000 to 60,000

Total Course Fee
Private Institute Fees

40,000 to 100,000

Total Course Fee
Recognized Approving Bodies

University Grants Commission (UGC), Individual Universities

Curriculum Highlights

Core Modules

  • Introduction to Human Rights
  • International Human Rights Law
  • National Human Rights Frameworks
  • Humanitarian Law
  • Rights of Vulnerable Groups (Women, Children, Minorities)
  • Human Rights Advocacy and Activism

Practical Components

  • Internships with human rights organizations (NGOs, UN bodies).
  • Case studies analysis.
  • Fieldwork and report writing.
  • Mock trials and advocacy simulations.

Academic Progression

Master's Degree in Human Rights

Further specialization and research opportunities.

LL.M. in Human Rights Law

For those with a law background seeking advanced legal expertise.

Doctoral Studies (Ph.D.)

For a career in academia or advanced research.

Top Institutes

Selection Criteria: Merit-based on qualifying examination scores, followed by entrance exams and/or interviews.

Government Hubs

Government Institutes
National Law Universities (NLUs)
Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS)
Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU)

Notable Private Hubs

Government Institutes
Christ University
Amity University
Symbiosis Law School

Top Cities Offering This Course

New Delhi Mumbai Bengaluru Pune Kolkata Hyderabad

Career Opportunities

Private Sector Scope

Top Industries: Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), International Organizations (UN, Amnesty International), Legal Firms specializing in human rights, Research and Think Tanks, Media and Journalism

RoleOrganization TypeTypical Duties
Program CoordinatorNGOs / International OrgsManaging and implementing human rights projects
Legal ResearcherLaw Firms / Think TanksConducting research on human rights issues
Advocacy OfficerNGOsLobbying for policy changes and raising awareness
Field InvestigatorHuman Rights WatchdogsDocumenting and reporting on human rights abuses

Government Sector Jobs

Graduates are eligible for exams conducted by: National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), State Human Rights Commissions, Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Women and Child Development, Judiciary (as legal assistants or researchers)

PostRecruiting BodyKey Responsibilities
Human Rights OfficerNHRC/State CommissionsInvestigating human rights violations, policy recommendations
Legal AdvisorGovernment MinistriesAdvising on human rights compliance
Programme OfficerGovernment SchemesImplementing and monitoring human rights-related programs

Frequently Asked Questions

Typically, a Bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognized university is required. Some institutes may have specific subject prerequisites.

Graduates can pursue careers in human rights advocacy, research, policy analysis, legal aid, and international development with NGOs, government bodies, and international organizations.

It varies by institution. Some institutes conduct their own entrance exams or interviews, while others admit students based on merit in the qualifying degree.

The duration is usually 1 to 2 years, depending on whether it's a full-time or part-time program, and the specific structure of the institute.

IndCareer Editorial Take

Ideal Candidate:

Brave, empathetic, analytical, and possessing strong communication skills, with a genuine passion for justice and human dignity.

Critical Checks before Admission:
  • Verify the affiliations and accreditations of the institute.
  • Check the faculty's expertise and experience in human rights.
  • Understand the internship and placement support offered.
  • Review the course curriculum for relevance and depth.
Common Misconceptions:

That it's purely academic with no practical application; that it only leads to activism.

State-Specific Note:

Many leading institutions are concentrated in major metropolitan areas, but online and distance learning options are expanding accessibility nationwide.

Content Accuracy: This content is curated by experts and verified against current educational standards. While we strive for accuracy, fees and admission criteria may vary by institute. Please verify with official sources.

Related Courses

  • Diploma in International Law
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  • Certifications in Social Justice
    Focus on specific social justice issues and activism.
  • Master's in Sociology/Social Work
    Deeper understanding of societal structures and welfare.

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