University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 9

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: 10.00 am Thu

This module introduces students to the complex debates concerning human rights, and in particular to the interrelationship between human rights in theory and in practice. While human rights is a powerful idea in our time, it is also the focus of numerous controversies. The module explores the philosophical foundations of universal human rights; the political, legal and historical development of modern human rights norms; issues and trends that have arisen since the advent of the United Nations human rights system; and the impact of human rights on the rules of international politics.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass IR2006

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 1 x 1-hour lecture (x 10 weeks), 1 x 1-hour tutorial (x 10 weeks), 2 consultation hours with Coordinator (x 12 weeks). 2 hours examination feedback in week 1 of following semester.

Scheduled learning hours: 22

Guided independent study hours: 278

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 3-hour Written Examination = 50%, Coursework = 50%


Re-assessment: 3-hour Written Examination = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr C A Ardila Arevalo
Module teaching staff: Dr C A Arevalo
Module coordinator email caaa1@st-andrews.ac.uk

Intended learning outcomes

• Comprehend the historical foundations, key actors, and central institutions of the international human rights system
• Understand the evolution of the idea of human rights, and its conceptual components
• Assess the implications of human rights for a wide variety of actors in global politics, including individuals, states, and international organizations
• Understand contemporary challenges and emerging trends in human rights theory and practice
• Articulate critical, reasoned and factually supported arguments both orally and in writing

Additional information from school

This module may be trialing CADMUS, an online assessment platform.