Health and Human Rights

Across the U.S. and internationally, profound inequities and discriminatory barriers undermine or prevent access to health services for tens of millions of people. In addition, some health programs and policies are instituted in ways that tolerate or reinforce discrimination, facilitate stigma or undermine human dignity.  Increasingly, the public health field is recognizing that integrating human rights approaches into public health practices and policies can provide a powerful force for social justice and improved health.

This Certificate will prepare graduates with the conceptual frameworks and practical tools for designing, implementing and evaluating rights-based health programs, policies and systems. Areas to be covered include, for example, HIV/AIDS; the human rights of people living with addictions; sexuality and sexual health; reproductive rights and reproductive justice; and human rights in humanitarian action. 

Graduates of the program will be well equipped for positions in local, national, and international public health programs, and institutions, as well as non-governmental organizations and foundations that employ rights-centered analysis and action.

Admissions Eligibility

Health and Human Rights is open to Columbia MPH students in:

Environmental Health Sciences
Epidemiology
Health Policy and Management
Population and Family Health
Sociomedical Sciences

Note that given the required classes, the program may be most compatible for students enrolled in Epidemiology, Population and Family Health, or Sociomedical Sciences.

Learn More

Visit the School's Academics website for more information about Health and Human Rights' required courses, certificate electives, and scheduling.