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Different course options

Study mode

Full time

Duration

1 year

Start date

SEP

Key information
DATA SOURCE : IDP Connect

Qualification type

MSc - Master of Science

Subject areas

International Studies

Course type

Taught

Course Summary

Programme Overview

The programme reviews historical and current policies and practice in humanitarian assistance and explores novel approaches in responding to the challenges of today’s humanitarian problems. It is responding to the need for a professional, integrated, accountable and ethical approach to humanitarian interventions in which humanitarian workers are often called upon to operate in complex and demanding environments.

Opportunities for in-depth study include regional and country case studies and modules addressing specific aspects of humanitarian interventions. In addition, the programme offers participants an opportunity to develop and undertake a research project, usually overseas, in an area of special interest indicated by client non-governmental organisations, international organisations or national ministries. Alternatively, participants may undertake a desk-based research study of a specialist aspect of humanitarian interventions or they may undertake and document a placement / internship with an appropriate non-governmental or international organisation (NGO/IO).

From a student’s perspective, the programme follows a path from general introduction to the world of humanitarian action, to examining key settings and the management of relief operations, cumulating with the research project or placement, allowing students to incorporate both the practical and theoretical trends of the programme. At the same time, the programme follows a coherent path towards a research project/internship, starting with general introductions to research and progressing, via the Scientific and Professional Skills, to look at specific skills useful for the student.

This course aims to:

  • Produce graduates who are committed, informed, proactive and effective professionals, capable of taking substantial and leading professional roles in humanitarian interventions and activities.
  • Enable students to gain a deeper understanding of the history and political economy of war, disasters, and humanitarian action, with particular attention to the relief operations and the health and well-being of individuals and populations
  • Give participants an opportunity either to conduct an independent in-depth field-based or desk-based research study of a specialist aspect of humanitarian interventions or to undertake and document a placement / internship with an appropriate NGO / IO.
  • Provide an interdisciplinary forum in which participants from a variety of professional backgrounds (e.g.health, political and social sciences, engineering, agriculture, development, international humanitarian law, human rights, administration and media) can explore differences and highlight shared approaches in humanitarian relief.
  • Facilitate high quality learning that is informed by critical analysis of current research related to the humanitarian sector

Careers

The MSc Humanitarian Studies (MHS) aims to strengthen links between academic institutions and operational humanitarian organisations. The skills, knowledge, and understanding of humanitarian issues gained during the programme, help prepare graduates to practise at a senior level in organisations involved in the prevention of, and response to, humanitarian crises. Past students have gone on to take a wide variety of positions, including Head of Policy and Strategy for MSF (Doctors without Borders), through to country director roles, with project placements all over the world. Many have also gone into other fields such as the public sector in the UK NHS (intercalating medics), social enterprises, law, social work, Political Advisor in the British Parliament.

Modules

Dissertation - Core

Tuition fees

UK fees
Course fees for UK students

For this course (per year)

£10,100

International fees
Course fees for EU and international students

For this course (per year)

£20,000

Entry requirements

This course is open to graduates with at least a Second Class Honours Bachelor's degree or overseas equivalent, although each application is judged on its own merits and exceptions to this entry requirement may be made. We will consider graduates from all disciplines as the programme is interdisciplinary. Evidence of engagement with the humanitarian or voluntary sector is desirable, but not essential. Medical students who have completed at least three years of study and wish to intercalate are also accepted onto the programme. Non-graduates with considerable satisfactory work experience and evidence of appropriate in-service training will also be considered. Field experience is desirable but not essential.