Patliputra University Patna PG Diploma Human Rights: Fees 2026, Course Duration, Dates, Eligibility

Ans. The PGDHR programme is a self-financed course offered exclusively through College of Commerce, Arts and Science (COCAS), Patna, which is a constituent affiliated college of Patliputra University. It is not offered at the university campus directly. The degree/diploma awarded is under the authority of Patliputra University, but the teaching and administration of the programme is handled by COCAS, Patna. Students admitted to this programme will study at the COCAS campus in Patna.

Ans. The Post Graduate Diploma in Human Rights (PGDHR) is a 1-year specialised programme focused specifically on human rights law, frameworks, and advocacy. It is shorter and more focused than a 2-year Master's degree (MA/LLM). While a PG Diploma does not carry the same academic weight as a full Master's degree for purposes like PhD admission or teaching positions, it is highly valued in the NGO sector, legal aid organisations, and human rights commissions. If you are already a law graduate or have a Master's degree and want to specialise in human rights, the PGDHR is an excellent add-on qualification. For those seeking academic careers, pursuing an LLM with a human rights specialisation would be more appropriate.

Ans. After completing the PGDHR, graduates can pursue careers in a wide range of sectors. In the NGO and civil society sector, roles include human rights researcher, programme officer, legal aid coordinator, and advocacy specialist. Government opportunities include positions with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), State Human Rights Commissions, and legal departments of government bodies. Graduates can also work as journalists covering human rights issues, as social workers, or as consultants for international organisations like UNICEF, UNDP, and Amnesty International. Law graduates with a PGDHR can strengthen their practice in areas like PIL (Public Interest Litigation), refugee law, and constitutional law.

Ans. The PGDHR programme at Patliputra University (offered through COCAS, Patna) has a seat intake of 20 students. Given the limited seats and the growing interest in human rights education in Bihar, admission can be competitive. Selection is based on merit in graduation marks, with priority given to marks in the Honours/Major subject, followed by subsidiary and allied subjects. Candidates with strong academic records in law, political science, sociology, or social work are likely to have an advantage. It is advisable to apply early and ensure all documents are in order.

Ans. The Post Graduate Diploma in Human Rights from Patliputra University is awarded by a UGC-recognised state university, making it a valid and recognised qualification. However, for most government job examinations, a full graduation or post-graduation degree is required rather than a PG diploma. The PGDHR is best suited as a specialisation qualification for those already holding a graduation or post-graduation degree. For PhD admission, most universities require a Master's degree (not a PG diploma) as the minimum qualification. The diploma is, however, widely recognised in the NGO, legal aid, and civil society sectors.

Ans. The PGDHR at Patliputra University is classified as a full-time programme, which means regular attendance at COCAS, Patna is expected. The programme involves classroom lectures, seminars, and practical components that require physical presence. While the 1-year duration makes it relatively short, balancing it with a full-time job can be challenging. If you are looking for a flexible option, you may want to explore distance or online PG diploma programmes in Human Rights offered by universities like IGNOU. For those who can commit full-time for one year, the PGDHR from Patliputra University offers excellent value given its affordable fees and recognised qualification.