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Academic Programs

Roosevelt House is the Hunter College home of two innovative new academic programs in Public Policy and Human Rights.

Human Rights Program:The Human Rights Program is an interdisciplinary program that offers a 15-credit minor and a 24-credit certificate in Human Rights.  Students enrolled in the program learn about human rights law, theory and practice, assessing how human rights norms and aspirations shape public policy, international relations, and corporate behavior. They study such pressing contemporary issues such as freedom of expression, international justice, humanitarian intervention, child labor and the treatment of refugees. They are introduced to the structure of human rights enforcement mechanisms, focusing on the ways in which international treaties and multilateral institutions influence the behavior of national governments. Hosting frequent guest speakers and panel discussions, the Human Rights Program combines academic study with exposure to real world issues and debates.

Public Policy Program: The Program in Public Policy is an 18-credit undergraduate minor open to students in all disciplines. Students also have an option to receive a Certificate in Public Policy by taking 9 additional credits (for a total of 27 credits). The Roosevelt House public policy program is based on the understanding that the preparation of informed individuals is the key to a vibrant participatory democracy. The program prepares students by providing essential research and analytical skills that are important goals of a strong liberal arts education. Our graduates are unique; they span many majors from Anthropology to Psychology, Chinese and Classics. Students have an opportunity to interact first-hand with policy experts and practitioners, both in the classroom and outside, and learn how policies are created, how communities come together to demand change, who benefits from specific policies, and how to measure the impact of laws. These are important skills that enable graduates to either embark on careers in public affairs and the nonprofit sector, or remain engaged in public affairs—nationally and globally—regardless of their stated major, career goals, or personal objectives.

Resources available to students in both programs include access to the Sara D. Roosevelt Library, invitations to public programs and special events organized for students. See Student Engagement for more details.