International Human Rights and Humanitarian Law European University Viadrina

This unique programme integrates protection of human rights in both peacetime and armed conflict, combining traditional international human rights law with international humanitarian law, covering issues such as terrorism, civil war, peace-keeping missions, and other humanitarian interventions.

It provides solid theoretical foundations and practical skills, preparing students for career opportunities in policy-making, international or national public service, public or private legal practice, both international and national non-governmental organisations, or in academic teaching, research and publication.

Key Features

• Practical application: developing practical skills in applying international legal standards of protection to particular circumstances, for example in court proceedings, public administration and other institutional settings, forensic investigation, conflict resolution, peace negotiation and post-conflict transition.
• Comprehensive knowledge: deep understanding of international legal frameworks for individual protection, spanning the full range of circumstances from peace to declared warfare, addressing philosophical, political, and historical foundations.
• Intercultural communication: enhancement of multicultural communication skills and awareness, and sharing of knowledge and experience, through intensive interaction in a distinctive multinational setting of students and professors.
• Research abilities: strengthening skills and techniques for academic research and scientific investigation, report preparation, policy advice, and scholarly publication.
• Legal expertise: in-depth understanding of international rights and guarantees, and their protection and enforcement through diverse remedial regimes, institutions, and procedures.

Coursework is delivered in both the winter and summer semesters. IHL coursework consists of both face-to-face and distance-learning elements. The face-to-face elements (lectures and seminars) require attendance during the first 10 weeks of each semester (April to June in summer; October to December in winter). These on-campus sessions take place at the Viadrina European University in Frankfurt (Oder).

Students are expected to prepare intensively for lectures and seminars, and to do individual follow-up study through distance learning afterwards.

Each coursework semester is organised in three phases:

• Phase one: weeks 1-10, lectures, seminars & first-attempt exams on campus
• Phase two: weeks 11-20, online assignments (first-attempt essays)
• Phase three: weeks 21-26, resit exams on campus & resit essays

The purpose of the internship is to provide an experience in which the learning from the coursework of the programme can be put into practice. It has to be undertaken with an organisation which is related to the programme's topics and modules. This may include a wide variety of organisations, both international and national, public or private. IHL students who have worked (or are still working) in a position which would be suitable for an internship, can have that experience recognised for the internship requirement. The assessment of equivalence will consider the nature of the organisation, the type of work done, the duration and recency of the activity. Even voluntary work with a suitable organisation, assessed in the same way, may be regarded as equivalent.

The IHL Master's Thesis demonstrates that the student is capable of independent academic research in the field covered by the IHL programme, and of presenting the results of this work in a form which meets the standards of postgraduate achievement. The thesis work is carried out, within a specified time frame, under the guidance of a supervisor assigned by the Chair of the IHL Examinations Board.

The internship is intended to provide the opportunity for the practical application of things learnt in the coursework programme. Therefore, it is essential it should be spent with an organisation which has some connection with the focus of the IHL programme. This can cover a wide variety of organisations, both international and national, public or private, including the following types:

• international or national human rights bodies (for example, within the UN, the Council of Europe, or other regional human rights systems)
• NGOs (for example, Amnesty International or Human Rights Watch), whether international or national
• organisations concerned with humanitarian issues and aid (for example, UNHCR or the Red Cross)
• bodies dealing with conflict management and international negotiation
• police forces or military/defence institutions (depending on some extent on the particular focus of the activities carried out)
• academic bodies and research institutes focused on human rights (so long as this involves not simply attending further courses on the subject but rather involves a practical focus on more specific issues or problems)
• a public prosecutor's office or a law firm (with a focus on human rights or related matters)
• certain branches of public administration (for example, child welfare or anti-discrimination).

This list is not exhaustive, but it gives an idea of the types of areas and activities that should be considered. When an IHL student has already been (or is still) working in a position that would be suitable for an internship, the Academic board chair may be able to give credit for this.

• University degree in law or an equivalent qualification
• Adequate proficiency in English, both spoken and written, sufficient to read and understand academic literature, write scholarly papers, and engage competently in postgraduate discourse; evidenced by:
  • official language certificate (details below); or
  • at least four years of schooling in English; or
  • equivalent evidence, such as school education, university study, or professional work experience in English.

       German language proficiency is not required for the IHL programme.

• High level of motivation to participate in the IHL programme
• At least one year of relevant practical professional experience
  • whether in a paid or unpaid (volunteer) position
  • exemption from this requirement may be granted by the Admissions Board
• Tuition fee payment in accordance with the Fees Regulations of the Viadrina European University.

The following documents need to be submitted with the application:

• CV in English (maximum 4 A4 pages);
• certified copies of all university degrees obtained, together with a certified academic transcript for all subjects and grades (in English, German or French);
• proof of English language proficiency — official certificates or other suitable written evidence (see admission prerequisites above for details);
• evidence of relevant practical experience — written confirmation from a relevant employer or organisation, or application for exemption (see admission prerequisites above for details);

All required documentation must be submitted in PDF format. Applications without the complete required documentation cannot be considered.

Students will have to pay a semester fee at Viadrina, which currently adds up to around 380 EUR per semester. This includes a ticket for public transport, the cost of the student ID card, and a registration fee. The amount varies each semester and might increase slightly over time.

Student life in Frankfurt (Oder) is less expensive than in most other German university cities. In order to be able to live here with all the expenses you can expect (health insurance, rent, etc.), you will need about 750 EUR per month. Depending on which type of accommodation you choose, monthly rent usually ranges from 200 to 300 EUR.

At present, it is possible to find an acceptable and well-paid job in Berlin, which can be reached within one hour. Thanks to the semester ticket, the trip to Berlin and public transport within Berlin is free of charge for students at the European University Viadrina. Recently, the German capital was also recognised as one of the world's most important cities for start-up and digital businesses such as eBay, Groupon, PayPal, and Zalando.

The European University Viadrina has developed special financial support programmes for international students.

The Career Centre at the European University Viadrina helps students to get acquainted with all the requirements for their future professional life. Mentoring is also offered in-house, covering various issues including study and work balance, dealing with hardships to PhD and career advice specific to the field of study.

The twin cities of Frankfurt (Oder) and Słubice offer many possibilities for single or shared housing, and all offers are within a reasonable price range. Students can choose from a number of student dormitories, shared flats, and affordable apartments on both sides of the border.

The European University Viadrina offers very good and affordable student accommodation in single room apartments or apartments with two to five rooms. Prices vary between 200 and 350 EUR. All prices include a broadband Internet connection, electricity and warm water. Student residences are furnished. Each tenant has access to a common kitchen, which is well-equipped. Lockable refrigerators, washing machines and dryers are provided by the student service as well.

More information on student dormitories:
Frankfurt (Oder): https://studentenwerk-frankfurt.net/en/
Słubice: https://dsslubice.amu.edu.pl/

Study Europe. Experience the World. Shape Society.
At the Viadrina, you will study individually and receive personal support at the interface between Eastern and Western Europe. Here, you will study in small groups and engage directly with your lecturers. Our hands-on degree programmes in the fields of culture, law, economics and digital transformation offer you a pan-European perspective. This will enable you to acquire unique expertise to shape the society of tomorrow.

Pan-European perspective
A cross-border campus at the interface between Western and Eastern Europe: here you can study future European challenges relating to digital transformation, culture, law and economics.

Study individually
Personal support from the start of your studies to your graduation, manageable study groups, individual focus: we offer you the ideal conditions for success in your studies.

International network
Everyday student life with people from more than 100 countries, stays abroad, worldwide double degrees and foreign language courses: with us, you can build your international, individual and professional network during your studies.

Committed community
Short distances, direct contact, participation and commitment: join our strong community. Numerous initiatives and projects are waiting for you, allowing you to help shape the university and our twin city Frankfurt (Oder)-Słubice.

Focus on society
Hands-on relevance and project-oriented teaching: with us, you will learn to tackle complex social challenges and contribute to shaping a successful future.

The European twin city of Frankfurt (Oder)-Słubice lies directly on the River Oder, linking Germany and Poland both geographically and culturally. With students from across Europe studying at institutions such as the European University Viadrina, the city offers a truly international atmosphere, affordable living and the unique opportunity to experience two countries in everyday life — all within walking distance.

Students also have numerous opportunities to play an active role in shaping city and campus life by getting involved in student initiatives, committees and non-profit organisations.

Berlin is just one hour away by train.