Dean's Travel Study Program

International Human Rights: Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights in Paris

The Dean’s Travel Study Program—International Human Rights: Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights in Paris will be taught by Professor Ashley B. Armstrong. This class will offer students a unique opportunity to understand the international frameworks and legal foundations of economic, social, and cultural rights (ESCR), while exploring challenges related to the protection and promotion of these rights. Set against the backdrop of one of Europe’s most vibrant cities, and the city where the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted in 1948, the course will delve into how ESC rights are protected, challenged, and promoted in both historic and contemporary contexts. Through a combination of site visits and discussions with experts, students will deepen their understanding of international ESCR issues, including the promotion of education, science and culture, and securing the ESC rights of refugees, among others. Students will engage with international organizations, nonprofits, and nearby cultural heritage sites, while also experiencing the city’s rich artistic and historical legacy.

When: Spring 2025 (February 28 - March 8)

The Dean's Travel Study Program 1-credit course provide selected second-, third-, and fourth-year students the opportunity and experience first-hand foreign legal systems throughout the world. With a different legal system (country or region) designated annually by the Dean, this travel / study course presents students the opportunity to gain substantial and comparative law knowledge across the great variety of common law, civil law, and mixed legal systems worldwide. The course includes pre-departure lectures at St. John's, guest lectures by law professors, judges and practicing lawyers in the designated country, as well as historical "walking lectures." The travel portion will include stays in selected cities in the jurisdiction as well as study visits to academic, governmental, and legal institutions. 

Eligible Students

Currently enrolled and matriculated St. John's University School of Law 2L, 3L, and 4L J.D. students who are in good academic standing may apply for the Dean's Travel Study Program. 

Should a student be selected for the program and, prior to commencement of the program, lose their good academic standing, they will not be allowed to participate in the program and an alternate will take their place. Students must have a valid passport.  

Selection Process

A committee will make selections shortly after the application deadline. Offers, including a wait-list, will be communicated in December, and students must promptly inform the program director if they will participate. 

Program Cost

There is no tuition charge to participate in the program, however, there is a program fee of $3,000 to fund the cost of transportation, accommodations, several meals throughout the time in Paris, and admission fees to the sites the class will be visiting. Students can apply financial aid to the program cost.

There is no required book to purchase for this course. All readings will be made available via Canvas.

Application Deadline: December 3, 2024

Please complete online application HERE.

Dean's Travel Study Paris Information Session

For more information about the Dean's Travel Study Program - Paris, please watch the recorded info session HERE and review the associated DTS Spring 2025 PowerPoint Slides.