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Humanitarian Studies (Taught)

Course details
  • MSc
  • 1 Years
  • Full-time
  • September 2026
  • Postgraduate
Course location
Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine

Course summary

Why should I study Humanitarian Studies?
As a planet we are facing some of the most extreme challenges of modern times. 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.

Open days

Entry requirements

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.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

Per year tuition fees

LocationFeeYear

Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website.

Additional fee information

Some courses will incur additional costs for lab equipment, consumables, fieldwork or international travel. Any additional costs are listed on our website.

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