Applying to the Leitner Summer Human Rights Institute
Welcome to the official Application Process page for the Leitner Summer Human Rights Institute (SHRI). This guide contains information for students, legal professionals, academics, and advocates, detailing each step on the journey toward applying to our flagship two-week programme in hybrid format at our New York City campus. Here you will find instructions, timelines, eligibility criteria, and tips to ensure a winning application. We are committed to making this process as open and easy as possible – all you need to concentrate on is joining us in building a global network of diverse expertise focused on protecting human rights.
About the SHRI Certificate Program
The Summer Human Rights Institute (SHRI) is a novel two-week certificate program offered by the Leitner Center for International Law and Justice. It will take place June 10-21, 2024 and offer live daily lectures, interactive sessions, and supplementary asynchronous learning in New York City (or remotely online). The core curriculum consists of Business and Human Rights; Vulnerable Groups Rights; Civil and Political Rights, Economic Social, and Cultural Rights; Women and Children; and International Justice. Upon completion, participants receive a Certificate in International Human Rights Law-the credential is an asset for law practice, academia, NGOs, and other professional endeavors.
Who Should Apply?
Legally trained individuals from any country wishing to study international human rights law are welcome to apply for the SHRI. This may include (but is not limited to):
- Law students interested in gaining a deeper understanding of international human rights law
- Lawyers who wish to broaden their knowledge of international human rights
- Academics and researchers in the discipline of law, political science or related fields
- Staff, advocates, and activists of NGOs who are working in the field of human rights
- Professionals in related disciplines (e.g. business or development) who wish to gain a fundamental knowledge of human rights
- Individuals from any country committed to the principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
Candidates of all levels of experience are encouraged to apply. The modules have been designed with both immersive professionals and those looking to enter the field in mind.
Key Dates and Deadlines
Observation of deadlines assures that your application receives full consideration. The following is the planned schedule for the 2024 SHRI session:
- Application Period Starts – January 8, 2024
- Priority Application Deadline – March 15, 2024
- Final Application Deadline – May 10, 2024
- Admission Notices – Rolling; approx. three weeks after submission
- Acceptance / Payment Deadline – Rolling; within two weeks of applicant receipt of acceptance notice
- Program Dates – June 10-21, 2024
As many applicants have noted in the past, we encourage early application. We limit the size of the program and often reach capacity prior to the final application deadline.
Eligibility Requirements
In order to ensure a fruitful and collegial learning process, applicants are required to have:
- completed at least one year of undergraduate study (or the professional equivalent)
- sufficient competence in English, since the instruction and all materials are in English
- general interest in human rights law, policy or practice
- the time and inclination to participate in an intensive, full-time course for two weeks
Although it is not required, background in law or the social sciences will be beneficial. The SHRI Committee therefore encourages applicants from all fields.
Application Materials Checklist
A complete SHRI application consists of the following:
- Application Form: Available at https://leitnersummerhumanrightsinstitute.org/apply
- Curriculum Vitae or Resume: Current Curriculum Vitae or Resume outlining your academic history, work experience as well as any relevant volunteer work or extra-curricular activities.
- Statement of Interest (500-750 words): Please tell us your reasons for applying to participate in the program, what relevant short and/or long-term experience you have, and how this study will enhance your studies and/or career aspirations.
- Academic Transcript or Proof of Enrolment (unofficial transcripts accepted): Proves the applicant’s academic readiness.
- English language proficiency (if applicable): Most non-native speakers provide a TOEFL, IELTS or other English proficiency test; however, a waiver can be granted for past university attended/or current university is an English language institution and previous work experience in the English language.
- One reference letter (optional but strongly encouraged): Those who know your work, study or research directly, such as your employer, professor, or a professional colleague.
Incomplete applications cannot be considered.
All documents must be submitted as a PDF document.
How to Apply: Instructions
- Application Portal: Visit https://leitnersummerhumanrightsinstitute.org/apply
- Application Form: Complete the online application form with personal details, education, professional history, and program attendance preference (in-person or remote).
- Upload the following to your application: (see checklist above)
- Submit your application: Ensure all information is accurate prior to submitting. You will receive an email confirmation once your application has been successfully submitted.
- Check your email regularly: All correspondence regarding the status of your application, any requests for further information or materials, admission to the program, and/or payment of tuition fees will be sent via email.
- Acceptance & Registration: If accepted, follow instructions for confirming acceptance of this offer and payment of tuition fees. Your place in the program is only secure upon receipt of your tuition fee payment.
- For any problems with your application/panel proposals, contact [email protected] for assistance with submission problems.
Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid
Tuition and fee information is available upon application or by request. The program fee includes instruction, course content and materials, live and recorded sessions, and a certificate upon program completion. Limited partial scholarship support may be available to applicants with demonstrated need, especially for applicants from underserved areas or with demonstrated income need. To request financial support, include a brief financial aid statement (250 words) as part of your application explaining your financial situation and need.
Payment instructions and deadlines will be outlined in your acceptance letter. All fees must be paid in full in order to participate in the cohort.
After You Apply
Our admissions staff will review your application materials on a rolling basis once they are submitted. An admission decision will be made as early as three weeks from the time we receive your application materials. You will formally be notified of your acceptance through an acceptance letter outlining registration and tuition payment information. If we require additional information from you, we will contact you via e-mail.
For those who are waitlisted due to class capacity and high demand, we will notify you immediately and update you once a seat becomes available. Be sure to frequently monitor your e-mail and respond promptly to messages in order to avoid processing delays.
Preparing to Attend the Program
Upon confirming your participation in the program, you will receive a pre-program welcome package that includes:
- Program orientation and schedules
- Online learning platform credentials and information
- Read-ahead and preparatory materials
- Logistical information for in-person constituents (if applicable, New York)
Pre-course materials are provided and participants are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the program and classroom structure and components to ensure optimal learning time.
Why the Leitner SHRI?
The Leitner Summer Human Rights Institute is known for its substantive curriculum, expert faculty, and challenging interactive classroom. Participants gain access to:
- Learn directly from leading human rights scholars and practitioners from around the world
- Engage with New York City’s most important human rights organizations
- Integrate practical and theoretical learning for immediate application
- Flexible hybrid global format for a worldwide audience
- Network with a diverse and international cohort
- World-class certificate from the Leitner Center at Fordham Law School
Leitner Summer Human Rights Institute alumni now serve in leadership positions in law, academia, public policy, and advocacy around the globe.
Contact Us and Apply Now
Interested in advancing your human rights education? The application window for the 2024 edition of the Leitner Summer Human Rights Institute is now open. Please carefully review all the information at https://leitnersummerhumanrightsinstitute.org/ and contact us via email at [email protected], call (832) 939-9983, or write to us at 1500 Louisiana St Ste 11, Houston TX 77002.
Space is limited and extremely competitive, so we urge you to apply as soon as possible. Our staff is ready to answer any questions and offer assistance to any interested individuals. Come join a global network of human rights professionals in New York City this summer-or online!-and apply now.