Humanitarian Studies (Taught)

Overview
As a planet we are facing some of the most extreme challenges of modern times. Poverty, inequality, displacement, conflict, natural disasters and climate change are all contributing to complex and demanding circumstances that jeopardise livelihoods and lives on a massive scale.

Humanitarian intervention is often a lifeline – saving lives and supporting communities to thrive in the face of adversity and catastrophic conditions. The MSc in Humanitarian Studies will give you the skillset to become part of a professional, integrated and ethical response to today's humanitarian problems, and make a real difference.

What will I get out of it?
Covering a range of key global issues, you will gain a deeper understanding of the history and political economy of war, disasters and humanitarian action. You will focus on relief operations and the impact on the health and wellbeing of populations.
You will apply your knowledge to real-life regional and country case studies, working with humanitarian experts and drawing on up-to-date research.
Working with people from a variety of disciplines and professional backgrounds will broaden your world view and enrich your professional practice.
Our strong links with non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and other international organisations will help you build your professional network and provide exciting options for projects, placements and future opportunities.
Is Humanitarian Studies for me?
If you are committed and proactive and want to get out there and make a difference, this MSc will give you the focused knowledge and specialised skills you need to create change and lead. Whether you have a background in health, political and social sciences, engineering, agriculture, development, law human rights or administration and media, you can be part of the solution.

Study Pattern
This one-year MSc is delivered on a full-time basis and requires completion of six 20-credit taught modules with an extended 60-credit research project. You will be expected to spend around 200 hours undertaking lectures, seminars, self-directed learning, research and reading for each 20-credit module.

In semester 1, after an induction week, you will complete the first two core taught modules and assessments, and in semester 2, you will complete the next three modules, two of which are core and one optional. The Scientific and Professional Skills module runs across semesters 1 and 2.

In semester 3 you will undertake a research project that can be linked with an NGO or international organisation and often involves a placement abroad.