Master's Programme in Constitutional Law and Human Rights 60 credits
About the programme
Constitutional law and human rights are becoming increasingly important in the world, and in this programme, you will delve deeper into these subjects. We use problem-based learning where work in small groups and seminars is emphasized. It is a dynamic study environment with both Swedish and international students. The programme prepares you to analyse and solve legal issues related to constitutional law and human rights.
Students from diverse backgrounds foster an environment for dynamic discussions
Problem-based learning with a focus on work in small groups and seminars that prepare students to solve legal problems.
While studying
The programme covers key concepts and theories in European and international constitutional law and human rights. You will study the principles of the rule of law, constitutionalism, fundamental constitutional rules, human rights, as well as issues of power distribution and legal enforcement.
In the programme, you will have the opportunity to develop your oral and written skills by participating in seminars and writing shorter essays. The programme also concludes with an independent written essay worth 15 credits, which corresponds to approximately 10 weeks of study.
Study Environment
The programme is taught in a creative and dynamic research and teaching environment. The diverse backgrounds of Swedish and international students create a mix of experiences and viewpoints on issues related to constitutional law and human rights, which, combined with the extensive experience of the faculty will foster dynamic and exciting discussions. There is ample room for discussion during the programme as we use problem-based learning with a focus on work in small groups and seminars.
Programme overview
Term 1
Rule of Law, Constitutionalism and Fundamental Principles
Term 2
Balance of Power and Constitutional Enforcement
Independent written essay within the field of constitutional law and human rights
Future and career opportunities
The programme provides you as a student with in-depth knowledge of issues related to constitutional law and human rights, which are becoming increasingly important in both national and international legal systems. The programme prepares you as a student for work in almost all legal fields. Special knowledge of issues related to constitutional law and human rights is sought after by employers in various legal and non-legal sectors, both nationally and internationally.
Common professions
• Legal adviser at national authorities
• Legal adviser at international organizations (EU, UN, Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, etc.)
• Researcher
Apply
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Autumn 2025
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Master's Programme in Constitutional Law and Human Rights
International admissions round
HT25 / Umeå / English / On site
Show more Show less
StartAutumn term 2025
Number of credits60 credits
Type of studiesOn site
Study pace100%
Length1 year
Study locationUmeå
LanguageEnglish
Application codeUMU-M2080
Eligibility Bachelor of Laws or a Bachelor´s Degree (equivalent to a Swedish Kandidatexamen, 180 ECTS) whereof at least 120 ECTS in Law including an independent written thesis equivalent of at least 15 ECTS. Proficiency in English to meet the general entry requirements for higher studies in Sweden.SelectionAcademic credits completed by the last application date (in the range of 30-285 credits equivalent to ECTS)
DegreeAfter completing the program, 60 credits, students may, on application, obtain a Filosofie Magisterexamen in accordance with the Local Qalifications Ordinance approved by the Vice Chancellor, see Umeå Universitys webbsite.
Filosofie Magisterexamen translates in English to Degree of Master of Science 60 credits. The degree is awarded in Law. Specialisation: Constitutional Law and Human Rights.
ApplicationApplication deadline was 15 January 2025. The application period is closed.
Application and tuition feesAs a citizen of a country outside the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, you are required to pay application and tuition fees for studies at Umeå University.
Application fee: SEK 900
Tuition fee, first instalment: SEK 48,300
Total fee: SEK 96,600
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Master's Programme in Constitutional Law and Human Rights
Second admissions round for EU/EEA citizens
HT25 / Umeå / English / On site
Show more Show less
StartAutumn term 2025
Number of credits60 credits
Type of studiesOn site
Study pace100%
Length1 year
Study locationUmeå
LanguageEnglish
Application codeUMU-P2080
Eligibility Bachelor of Laws or a Bachelor´s Degree (equivalent to a Swedish Kandidatexamen, 180 ECTS) whereof at least 120 ECTS in Law including an independent written thesis equivalent of at least 15 ECTS. Proficiency in English to meet the general entry requirements for higher studies in Sweden.SelectionAcademic credits completed by the last application date (in the range of 30-285 credits equivalent to ECTS)
DegreeAfter completing the program, 60 credits, students may, on application, obtain a Filosofie Magisterexamen in accordance with the Local Qalifications Ordinance approved by the Vice Chancellor, see Umeå Universitys webbsite.
Filosofie Magisterexamen translates in English to Degree of Master of Science 60 credits. The degree is awarded in Law. Specialisation: Constitutional Law and Human Rights.
ApplicationApplication deadline was 15 April 2025. The application period is closed. Please note: This second application round is intended only for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens.
Application and tuition feesAs a citizen of a country outside the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, you are required to pay application and tuition fees for studies at Umeå University.
Application fee: SEK 900
Tuition fee, first instalment: SEK 48,300
Total fee: SEK 96,600
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Autumn 2026
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Master's Programme in Constitutional Law and Human Rights
International admissions round
HT26 / Umeå / English / On site
Application opens 16 October 2025Show more Show less
StartAutumn term 2026
Number of credits60 credits
Type of studiesOn site
Study pace100%
Length1 year
Study locationUmeå
LanguageEnglish
Application codeUMU-M2080
EligibilityBachelor of Laws or a Bachelor´s Degree (equivalent to a Swedish Kandidatexamen, 180 ECTS) whereof at least 120 ECTS in Law including an independent written thesis equivalent of at least 15 ECTS. Proficiency in English to meet the general entry requirements for higher studies in Sweden.
SelectionAcademic credits completed by the last application date (in the range of 30-285 credits equivalent to ECTS)
DegreeAfter completing the program, 60 credits, students may, on application, obtain a Filosofie Magisterexamen in accordance with the Local Qalifications Ordinance approved by the Vice Chancellor, see Umeå Universitys webbsite.
Filosofie Magisterexamen translates in English to Degree of Master of Science 60 credits. The degree is awarded in Law. Specialisation: Constitutional Law and Human Rights.
ApplicationThe online application opens 16 October 2025 at 13:00 CET. Application deadline is 15 January 2026.
Application and tuition feesAs a citizen of a country outside the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, you are required to pay application and tuition fees for studies at Umeå University.
Application fee: SEK 900
Tuition fee, first instalment: SEK 48,300
Total fee: SEK 96,600
-
Master's Programme in Constitutional Law and Human Rights
Second admissions round for EU/EEA citizens
HT26 / Umeå / English / On site
Application opens 16 March 2026Show more Show less
StartAutumn term 2026
Number of credits60 credits
Type of studiesOn site
Study pace100%
Length1 year
Study locationUmeå
LanguageEnglish
Application codeUMU-P2080
EligibilityBachelor of Laws or a Bachelor´s Degree (equivalent to a Swedish Kandidatexamen, 180 ECTS) whereof at least 120 ECTS in Law including an independent written thesis equivalent of at least 15 ECTS. Proficiency in English to meet the general entry requirements for higher studies in Sweden.
SelectionAcademic credits completed by the last application date (in the range of 30-285 credits equivalent to ECTS)
DegreeAfter completing the program, 60 credits, students may, on application, obtain a Filosofie Magisterexamen in accordance with the Local Qalifications Ordinance approved by the Vice Chancellor, see Umeå Universitys webbsite.
Filosofie Magisterexamen translates in English to Degree of Master of Science 60 credits. The degree is awarded in Law. Specialisation: Constitutional Law and Human Rights.
ApplicationThe online application opens 16 March 2026 at 09:00 CET. Application deadline is 15 April 2026. Please note: This second application round is intended only for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens.
Application and tuition feesAs a citizen of a country outside the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, you are required to pay application and tuition fees for studies at Umeå University.
Application fee: SEK 900
Tuition fee, first instalment: SEK 48,300
Total fee: SEK 96,600
-
How to apply
Apply online via universityadmissions.se
You apply to our programmes and courses via universityadmissions.se – the official website for higher education applications in Sweden. There, you can track your application, check that your documents have been registered, and log in to find our your admission results.
Late applications
Admissions to most programmes and courses typically close after the final application deadline. However, some programmes and courses may still accept late applications if seats are available. These are marked “Open for late application” on universityadmissions.se. Please note that late applications are not guaranteed to be reviewed.
More about application and admission
Voices about the programme
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Rewarding to apply what she learned in practice
Alumni
Hewan’s studies laid a strong foundation for her career in human rights and she thoroughly enjoyed her time at the programme.
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The programme prepared Michael well for PhD studies
Alumni
Michael’s time in Umeå has prepared him for his current job by building his critical thinking and ethical approach to his current research.
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Interesting discussions when students from around the world meet
Teacher
Professor Markus Naarttijärvi is passionate about the subjects he teaches in the programme, and the classroom discussions truly inspire him.
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A creative teaching environment where legal disciplines intermingle
Teacher
Associate professor Karin Åström says “the programme equips students to address constitutional and human rights issues in multiple jurisdictions”.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to send a Motivation letter or Recommendation letters?
No, none of those documents are required. If you send them anyway, they will not be considered.
Are there any tuition fees?
With a few exceptions, all citizens of countries outside of the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland are required to pay application and tuition fees.
Can I get a scholarship?
You can apply for scholarships offered by the Swedish Institute and some by Umeå University.
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