Human Rights students can reap huge benefits through studying abroad by gaining a better understanding of the different human rights standards in the world, analyzing how these rights impacts other societies, and developing the solid foundation of knowledge, critical thinking, cultural competency and professional skills that are essential to success in the human rights field and learning more about different human rights around the world. Step out into the world, rev up your resume, and earn academic credit by studying abroad in locations such as Ghana, Japan, Romania, Thailand, Turkey, and many more.

“Rats and roaches live by competition under the laws of supply and demand; it is the privilege of human beings to live under the laws of justice and mercy.” -Wendell Berry

Human Rights Study Abroad Programs

The Human Rights minor provides students with both intellectual and practical opportunities to engage with human rights in preparation for encountering a wide variety of twenty-first century political issues, social problems, and employment opportunities. The curriculum is distinctively interdisciplinary, mirroring the world of human rights today. By studying abroad students can get a first hand perspective of the efforts of Human Rights advocates around the globe such as Autonomous University of Social Movements in Cuba, Mexico or Brazil. 

Students interested in combining their study abroad experience with an internship, or those looking to focus solely on an internship, have many options. Customized internships are available in a few locations through GVSU internships, as well as other programs such as ISA and World Endeavors

Academic Advice

  First Year Students

 The earliest you can go abroad is the summer of your first year.
 Students may fulfill General Education Foundations and/or Issues requirements abroad.

Sophomores & Upperclassmen 

• Students may take courses that satisfy some requirements in their Human Rights minor or for the General Education program. Be sure to begin planning at least six months in advance.
• Students do not need to speak a foreign language in order to study in a country where English is not the official language.
• An internship abroad will not only give students experience and insights into their specific field of interest, but will help them develop desirable cross-cultural skills and competency.
• Consider fulfilling your Issues General Education requirement abroad. Find out how!

Restrictions

• Department input requested
• Courses will be reviewed on a case by case basis through the course equivalency process.

Keep in Mind

• Once you have selected a program, be sure to meet with your advisor to discuss your academic goal.
• Be sure to explore both GVSU and External options by browsing the Program Suggestions below. Students are not limited to GVSU study abroad programs.
• There are several opportunities to intern and or volunteer while abroad.
• Students can fulfill the General Education Foundation requirements abroad as well as their General Education Issues requirement (reflection paper required). If you take at least 3 credits abroad, your Global Perspectives General Education requirement will automatically be fulfilled.

To determine the GVSU course equivalencies for courses taken abroad, please view the “How to Request Course Equivalencies” page. For more information email Department Contact below.

Richard Hiskes 
hiskesr@gvsu.edu 

224 Lake Ontario Hall