Human Rights (BA) + Master's Degree (MA or MSc), University of Sussex

Combine your interest in human rights, diversity and international development with this unique multi-degree program.

Study in Canada and the UK, starting your undergraduate Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Human Rights at Wilfrid Laurier University with guaranteed admission to a specialized master's (MA or MSc) in International Development and Global Issues at the University of Sussex, ranked #1 worldwide for Development Studies (QS World University Rankings, 2026).

This multi-degree program is ideal for students who want to study abroad while making an impact on social justice and global inequality.

Program Details

Discover what makes this Laurier program unique and how you’ll gain real-world experience.

Why Should I Choose This Program?

Your future professors work hard to make sure your academic experience is current, complete and designed to open doors in your career. Here are a few things you can count on:

  • Benefit from Two Degrees
    The BA + master's degree program offers a streamlined path to a BA in Human Rights at Laurier and a guaranteed admission to a MA/MSc in international development and global issues at Sussex, with mentoring and skills development ensuring you meet progression requirements (including a B+ average by the end of your undergraduate degree).
  • Career-Focused Curriculum
    Develop strong practical skills and critical analysis and learn about real-world issues affecting the current world such as racism, global inequality and climate crisis.
  • Network of International Experts
    You will work alongside faculty with expertise in Asia, Africa, the Americas and Europe. You will benefit from a wide range of guest lectures and research seminars by academics and practitioners, as well as course-specific events, such as optional field trips in the UK or abroad.

How Will I Gain Real-World Experience?

Here are just a few of our students’ favourite ways to apply their learning in the real world throughout their degree (check out the Experience Guide for even more!):

Courses and Program Enhancements

Explore what you'll study and how you can enhance your degree to fit your academic and career goals.

What Courses Will I Take?

Get a glimpse of what you will study throughout your degree. See what your first-year classes will look like through sample courses and start exploring what your upper academic years can offer.

How Can I Enhance My Degree?

Explore a variety of courses, specializations and pathway options that let you shape your degree around your unique interests and goals. Find out how you can customize your experience and prepare for what’s next.

Minors

These are a few of the many popular academic opportunities which allow you to dive deeper into your major area of study or broaden your knowledge:

  • Game Design and Development Minor
  • Leadership Minor
  • Psychology Minor
  • Computer Science Minor
  • Politics and Public Policy Minor

Once you’re at Laurier, you can connect with an academic advisor in your first year for more information about pursuing a minor. In the meantime, check out other electives and minors to enhance your degree.

Admissions

  • Format: full time or part time
  • Duration: five years
  • Start: September (fall term) or January (winter term)

Career Options

It’s not only about the journey; it’s about the destination. Let us help you get to where you’re going.

What Jobs Can I Get After Graduation?

Our BA+MA/MSc graduates go on to a wide range of rewarding careers. Here are just a few examples: 

  • executive director
  • assistant secretary of state
  • associate researcher
  • associate project officer
  • humanitarian program manager
  • policy officer
  • immigrant settlement worker
  • foreign service officer

Note: Additional training and education may be required.

Will I Be Supported After Graduation?

As a Laurier alum, you'll have access to Career and Employment Support offered at Laurier for your entire career.

Tuition and Costs

What are the Tuition Fees and Costs for Liberal Arts at Laurier?

Below is a breakdown of tuition fees and expenses for Laurier Liberal Arts students for one year (or two terms) studying full time. Fees are based on 2026/27 rates and are subject to increase. All fees are shown in Canadian dollars.

Tuition Fees for Liberal Arts Students
Fee Type Domestic Students International Students
Tuition $7,222 $36,624
Student Fees $1,830 $2,778
Textbook Fees $1,500 $1,500

See a full breakdown of your first-year expenses.

Tuition Discount for Year 1 at Sussex

The University of Sussex offers a 20% tuition discount for your first year at Sussex. This is awarded to Laurier students who meet all admission requirements and attend Sussex as part of this pathway.

The tuition discount is for your first year at Sussex only and is worth approximately $8,000 CAD. The amount of tuition a Canadian student can expect to pay for one year at the University of Sussex is approximately $44,100 CAD per year before the tuition discount (at exchange rates from June 2026, equivalent to £23,500).

 

Laurier graduates employed or in post‑graduate studies in 2025

 

Laurier students engaged in hands‑on learning in 2025/26

 

Laurier is among the top 7 percent in the Center for World University Rankings 2026

Brantford Campus

The Brantford campus blends small-city charm with big opportunities. It’s home to more than 2,400 students learning in modern classrooms inside beautifully restored buildings, with access to recreation at the Laurier Brantford YMCA and one-stop student services within One Market. With affordable living options, 20+ programs to choose from, great walking and biking trails and a welcoming community, Laurier Brantford is the ideal place to live and learn.

There are many ways to tour our Brantford campus, whether that's on a guided tour with one of our Laurier student ambassadors, on your own using virtual reality, or even on-demand through one of our pre-recorded tours. See our campus spaces and start to picture yourself at Laurier.

students in a classroom

How Will I Learn in This Program?

This is primarily an in-person program, meaning you'll attend classes on campus and learn face-to-face with professors and classmates. When you register for courses, you'll be able to select from available sections and create your timetable. 
 
In-person delivery gives you direct access to faculty, hands-on learning opportunities and a traditional university student experience.

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Get in Touch

Have questions? Email chooselaurier@wlu.ca, call 548‑889‑8888 or see all contact information.


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