EMA Scholarships, The European Master’s Programme in Human Rights and Democratisation (EMA) is a real and well-established program. It’s a unique interdisciplinary master’s program that focuses on the field of human rights and democratization. The program is offered by a consortium of European universities and institutions.
The EMA program aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of human rights issues, democratization processes, and their interrelation. Students get the opportunity to study at various universities within the consortium and gain a diverse and international perspective on these important topics.
Here are some key points about the EMA Scholarships :
1. Consortium
The program is offered by a consortium of universities and institutions from across Europe. Each institution may offer its own specialization or focus area within the broader field of human rights and democratisation.
The European Master’s Programme in Human Rights and Democratisation (EMA) is indeed a consortium-based program involving several universities and institutions across Europe. The consortium structure allows students to benefit from a diverse range of expertise and perspectives in the field of human rights and democratization.
An example of the kind of institutions that have historically been part of the EMA consortium:
- University of Padua, Italy: This institution is known for its strong focus on human rights law and international law.
- Ruhr-University Bochum, Germany: This university’s Institute for International Law of Peace and Armed Conflict often participates in the EMA program, contributing expertise in international law and conflict resolution.
- University of Deusto, Spain: Deusto’s expertise might include areas such as human rights advocacy, migration, and social justice.
- University of Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina: This institution brings a perspective shaped by the experiences of post-conflict societies and transitional justice.
- University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa: This university’s participation can provide insights into human rights and democratization from an African perspective.
- Kathmandu School of Law, Nepal: This institution’s involvement might offer perspectives on human rights and democratic struggles in the context of Nepal and South Asia.
These are just a few examples, and the actual consortium members can vary. The participating institutions typically collaborate to offer a comprehensive curriculum that covers various aspects of human rights and democratization. They may also facilitate student mobility, allowing students to study at different institutions within the consortium.
2. Interdisciplinary Approach
EMA is known for its interdisciplinary approach, integrating various disciplines such as law, political science, sociology, international relations, and more.

The European Master’s Programme in Human Rights and Democratisation (EMA) is known for its interdisciplinary approach to studying human rights and democratization. An interdisciplinary approach involves integrating insights, methods, and perspectives from multiple academic disciplines to provide a holistic understanding of complex issues.
Here’s how the interdisciplinary approach is typically incorporated into the EMA program:
- Diverse Disciplines: EMA brings together various academic disciplines such as law, political science, sociology, international relations, anthropology, history, economics, and more. This breadth of disciplines allows students to explore human rights and democratization from different angles.
- Holistic Understanding: By integrating insights from different fields, students gain a well-rounded and comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted nature of human rights and democratization. This approach acknowledges that these issues cannot be fully understood from a single disciplinary perspective.
- Cross-Cultural Perspective: The interdisciplinary approach helps students consider how human rights and democratization intersect with cultural, social, economic, and political contexts. This is particularly important when working in a globalized world with diverse cultural backgrounds and historical experiences.
- Practical Application: The program often includes practical components like internships, fieldwork, and case studies. This hands-on experience encourages students to apply interdisciplinary insights to real-world situations, enhancing their problem-solving skills.
- Critical Thinking: Interdisciplinary education fosters critical thinking skills as students learn to analyze issues from multiple viewpoints and assess the strengths and limitations of various approaches.
- Collaborative Learning: Collaborating with peers from different disciplinary backgrounds encourages cross-pollination of ideas, leading to richer discussions and innovative solutions to complex problems.
- Adapting to Change: Human rights and democratization issues are evolving and interconnected. An interdisciplinary approach equips students with the flexibility to adapt to changing circumstances and engage with emerging challenges.
3. Duration
The program typically takes two years to complete, and it often includes a combination of coursework, internships, and a master’s thesis.
The duration of the European Master’s Programme in Human Rights and Democratisation (EMA) typically spans two academic years. However, please note that program structures can vary among participating institutions and over time, so it’s important to check the specific details provided by the consortium or the universities involved.
Here’s a general breakdown of the typical duration of the EMA program:
- First Year: EMA Scholarships, The first year often focuses on foundational courses that provide a comprehensive understanding of human rights, democratization, and related disciplines. Students might take core courses that cover topics such as international human rights law, political theory, conflict resolution, and research methodologies. This year may also include opportunities for internships, seminars, and practical experiences.
- Second Year: EMA Scholarships, The second year is usually devoted to more specialized courses and elective options. Students may have the opportunity to choose specific tracks or concentrations based on their interests, such as human rights advocacy, humanitarian law, development, or democracy studies. In addition to coursework, students often work on their master’s thesis, conducting research on a topic of their choice under the guidance of a faculty advisor.
- Mobility: EMA Scholarships, One of the unique features of the EMA program is the mobility aspect. Students often have the opportunity to study at different universities within the consortium during their two years of study. This mobility allows them to benefit from diverse academic environments, faculty expertise, and cultural experiences
4. Language
EMA Scholarships, Since the program involves studying in different European countries, proficiency in English is often required, as it is the primary language of instruction.
The European Master’s Programme in Human Rights and Democratisation (EMA) is typically conducted in English. English is commonly used as the primary language of instruction and communication within the program, as it allows students from different linguistic and cultural backgrounds to study together and collaborate effectively.
Given the international and interdisciplinary nature of the program, using English ensures that all students can understand and participate in coursework, discussions, and academic activities. It also prepares students for careers in international settings, where English is often used as a common language in the fields of human rights, diplomacy, academia, and more.
While English is the primary language, it’s important to note that there might be specific language requirements for admission to the program. Some institutions within the consortium might require applicants to demonstrate proficiency in English through standardized tests such as TOEFL or IELTS. If English is not your native language, you may need to provide proof of your language proficiency during the application process.
5. Admission
EMA Scholarships, Admission requirements vary depending on the participating institutions, but they generally include a relevant bachelor’s degree and sometimes work experience or other criteria.
Admission requirements for the European Master’s Programme in Human Rights and Democratisation (EMA) can vary among the participating institutions within the consortium.
Admission criteria that are often considered for this program:
- Bachelor’s Degree: EMA Scholarships, Typically, applicants are required to have a completed bachelor’s degree from a recognized university or equivalent institution. The degree should be relevant to the field of human rights, law, social sciences, political science, international relations, or a related discipline.
Handsome german male student with braces and group of multi ethnic young adults outdoor in city. Source:istockphoto.com - Academic Transcripts: EMA Scholarships, You’ll likely need to submit official transcripts or academic records from your previous educational institutions as part of the application process.
- Language Proficiency: EMA Scholarships, Since the program is often conducted in English, applicants whose native language is not English might need to demonstrate proficiency in English. This can be done through standardized tests such as TOEFL or IELTS. The specific score requirements can vary, so it’s important to check the requirements of the institutions you’re interested in.
- Letters of Recommendation: EMA Scholarships, Some institutions may require letters of recommendation from professors or professionals who can speak to your academic abilities and potential for success in the program.
- Statement of Purpose: EMA Scholarships , A statement of purpose or personal statement is often required. This is an opportunity for you to explain your motivations for pursuing the EMA program, your relevant experiences, and your academic and career goals.
- CV/Resume: EMA Scholarships , A current CV or resume detailing your educational background, work experience, research, publications (if applicable), and any relevant extracurricular activities or achievements.
- Interview: EMA Scholarships , In some cases, institutions may conduct interviews as part of the admission process to assess your suitability for the program.
- Application Fee: EMA Scholarships ,There might be an application fee associated with submitting your application. Be sure to check the specific application process for each institution.
- Work Experience: EMA Scholarships, Some institutions might value relevant work experience in the field of human rights, law, international relations, or related areas. This could be considered as a positive factor in the admission process.
6. Scholarships
The EMA program often offers scholarships to students, particularly those from countries outside of the European Union, to help cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs associated with studying in different countries.
7. Career Opportunities
Graduates of the EMA program can pursue careers in various fields, including international organizations, non-governmental organizations, academia, government agencies, and more.