Human Rights Program
Overview
The Human Rights Program examines the theory and practice of human rights, combining academic training with hands-on experience. By exploring the philosophical foundations and legal framework of human rights, as well as addressing current political, social and economic realities, the program seeks to give students the tools necessary to engage intelligently with contemporary human rights problems. Among the thorny issues students may examine are indigenous peoples’ rights to natural resources, the limits of freedom of expression, the problem of corporate complicity in rights violations, the legitimacy of humanitarian intervention, and the problem of enforceability (both of economic, social, and cultural rights, and of civil and political rights).
An interdisciplinary program, the Human Rights Program offers courses in political science, anthropology, sociology and history, among other fields of study. Students may follow either of two academic tracks: a 15-credit Minor in human rights, or 24-credit Certificate. A key element of both tracks is the human rights internship, which gives students direct experience with the researchers, advocates, lawyers and analysts who make up the human rights movement.
Both the Minor and Certificate in human rights are good preparation for a career in government, at a nongovernmental organization, or in a regional or international agency. Many students may choose to go on to law school, journalism school or a graduate program. Whatever their career choice, their knowledge of human rights will make them more thoughtful and informed citizens.
Programs and Courses in Human Rights
Programs and Courses in Human Rights
Administration and Faculty
Director of the Human Rights Program and Program Adviser:
Jessica Neuwirth, Program Director
Roosevelt House-RH 404
212-396-6564
jessica.neuwirth@hunter.cuny.edu
Program Manager:
JoAnne Vellardita
Roosevelt House-RH 401
212-396-7946
joanne.vellardita@hunter.cuny.edu
http://www.roosevelthouse.hunter.cuny.edu/hrp/
Program Associate:
Kelsey Adolphs
Roosevelt House-RH 401
212-396-7948
kadolphs@hunter.cuny.edu
http://www.roosevelthouse.hunter.cuny.edu/hrp/
Policy and Curriculum Committee
Carol Gould, Chair, Professor, Philosophy; PhD Yale University
http://www.hunter.cuny.edu/philosophy/faculty/carol-c.-gould
Yukiko Koga, Associate Professor, Anthropology; PhD Columbia
http://www.hunter.cuny.edu/anthropology/faculty-staff/full-time-faculty/koga-yukiko
Marnia Lazreg, Professor, Sociology, PhD New York University
http://www.hunter.cuny.edu/sociology/faculty/marnia-lazreg
Deborah Tolman, Professor, Women & Gender Studies, PhD Harvard University
http://www.hunter.cuny.edu/wgs/women-and-gender-studies-staff
John Wallach, Professor, Political Science; PhD Princeton University