Program Overview

Double Degree in Human Rights Law

The University of Waterloo has partnered with the University of Essex to allow Arts students to complete a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) in Human Rights Law. This program is intended for Sociology and/or Legal Studies students.

Program Requirements

To pursue the double degree, students must complete the following requirements before attending the University of Essex:

• All major plan requirements (Sociology or Legal Studies)
• Minor in Human Rights
• Arts breadth requirement
• Undergraduate communications requirement

An accelerated plan of study is necessary to complete these requirements in three years. This typically entails a 5-course load in all fall and winter terms, plus two courses in spring terms for three years. Careful planning and advance consultation with department advisors are necessary to ensure all requirements are met in a timely fashion. It is also possible to take a regular full-time course load and apply to Essex after four years of study at the University of Waterloo.

Application and Admission

Once students are on track to complete all University of Waterloo requirements, they will apply to Essex in January for fall intake. Students admitted to Essex will receive credit for the first year of study in the Human Rights Law program and complete two more years for the LLB. Ten of these courses will receive transfer credits at the University of Waterloo to bring the student up to 40 courses required for a Bachelor of Arts.

Important Considerations

Students should be aware that further study after the LLB may be required to practice law in Canada. Completing a double major at the University of Waterloo and/or combining the double degree with co-op is possible but will add significant time to completion.

Graduate Programs

The University of Waterloo offers graduate programs in Sociology and Legal Studies, including:

• Master of Arts in Social and Legal Studies
• Master of Arts in Sociology
• PhD in Sociology

These programs provide advanced education and research opportunities for students.

Research Areas

The Department of Sociology and Legal Studies is involved in various research areas, including thematic areas that explore social and legal issues.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of the Sociology master's programs have various career outcomes, and the university provides funding and awards to support students in their academic pursuits.

University Information

The University of Waterloo acknowledges that much of its work takes place on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg, and Haudenosaunee peoples. The university is committed to reconciliation and community building through research, learning, teaching, and community engagement.