The international human rights track of the international studies major is designed to provide a combination of a variety of academic and practical knowledge related to social justice and human rights. The study of human rights is inherently multidisciplinary, and students in the track will have the opportunity to become familiar with international human rights standards and their application and implications through coursework in a variety of disciplines. Students in the track will be expected to understand how to discuss and address human rights concerns from a number of distinct perspectives and to apply critical thinking skills to complex problems.
NOTE: Students interested in a more specialized academic credential may also choose to enroll in the UI Center for Human Rights' Certificate in Human Rights Program.
Examples of post-graduation opportunities for International Studies graduates who have completed the international human rights track include:
- Creative Media Specialist - International Programs (University of Iowa)
- Leadership Experience Manager - Girl Scouts of Eastern Iowa & Western Illinois (Cedar Rapids, Iowa)
- Administrative Assistant - Rights for All People (Aurora, Colorado)
- Program Coordinator - America Reads America Counts/ Duke University (Durham, North Carolina)
- Bilingual Case Manager - Unaccompanied Immigrant Children's Program for Heartland Alliance (Chicago, Illinois)
- Public Service Fellow - Conference on Asian Pacific American Leadership (Washington DC)
- Consultant (Nutrition and HIV) - United Nations World Food Programme (Mozambique)
- Masters program in Social Work - Community Organization, Children, Youth & Families (University of Michigan)
- Masters program in International Development and Humanitarian Emergencies (London School of Economics)
- Law School (Northwestern University; University of Iowa: Lewis and Clark University)
World Language Study
The international human rights track does not specify a particular course of study for world languages. Students should elect to study a language that is relevant to their interests and course of study. For more information on options for world language study at the University of Iowa, students may contact the Division of World Languages, Literatures and Cultures.
Track Requirements
The international human rights track requires a minimum of 18 s.h. of coursework, including at least 12 s.h. earned in courses numbered 2000 or above. Students may not count their foundation courses toward track requirements.