Masters Degrees (Humanitarian)

Modules Contents and Objectives

IN BIOFORCE

1) Opening Sessions

Objectives: To introduce the pedagogical objectives and contents to participants. To ensure that the expectations of trainees are coherent with the learning objectives defined for the programme.

Contents: Bioforce presentation. Introduction of the learning programme and objectives.

2) Immersion Internship

Objectives: To facilitate group cohesiveness and participant involvement within the programme.
To make a detailed presentation of the components of the MSc in HPM.
To encourage a joint reflection about humanitarian and development issues.
Show awareness of its own strengths and limitations as a humanitarian programme manager.

Contents: Presentation, preparation and organization of the immersion internships. Discussion and group work on Humanitarian topics.

3) Framework of Humanitarian Aid

Objectives/Learning outcomes: To provide participants with thorough knowledge of the humanitarian sector and issues at stake: stakeholders, systems, coordination mechanisms, legal and ethical framework, Q&A initiatives and applications relating to programme management.

Contents: Humanitarian actors, systems and challenges. International humanitarian law, ethics & principles. Quality & Accountability initiatives, methods & practical tools.

4) Managing People & Organisations

Objectives/Learning outcomes: To enable participants to choose and apply appropriate tools to manage themselves, other people, and organisations involved in humanitarian programmes.

Contents: Strengthening organisational capacity. Change management. Quality & Accountability in people management. Creating & developing trust in diverse teams. HR processes : HR organisation, recruitment, performance management, staff development. How to lead: leadership, management & delegation. Managing team safety and security.

5) Managing Programmes & Projects

Objectives/Learning outcomes: To enable participants to choose and apply appropriate tools to manage all stages of the project cycle in humanitarian contexts.

Contents: Programme Cycle Management (PCM):

- Assessment & analysis
- Planning & implementation
- Monitoring & evaluation

Cross-cutting issues in PCM (participation, targeting...) Quality & Accountability in programme management.

6) Managing Finance & Funding

Objectives/Learning outcomes: To provide participants with the critical skills and confidence required to raise funds for humanitarian programmes, and to manage financial resources accountably.

Contents: Donors & donor strategies. Quality & Accountability in finance management. Budgeting & proposal writing. Funding strategies & opportunities. Key principles & concepts of financial management. Practical aspects of financial management.

7) Training of Trainers for Capacity Building in the Sector

Objectives/Learning outcomes: To provide participants with the appropriate methods & tools to develop, facilitate, monitor & evaluate capacity building activities.

Contents: Designing & implementing training activities.

8) Field Exercise

Objectives/Learning outcomes : Develop, through a field scenario-based exercise, operational capacity and autonomy of the trainees.

Contents : Within an operational framework, students will have to implement capabilities developed during the training period. The exercise is based on 5 days role play scenario. Students are placed in the position of aid actors in a context of humanitarian/emergency intervention. They have to implement several programs in the field on behalf of different NGOs. They operate in a complex emergency context where multiple players are involved.

IN ESC GRENOBLE

NB : For the ESC Students it is possible to follow “English track programme” described bellow or to follow a second semester in an English spoken abroad university.
For the other students, they must follow the “English track programme”.

1) Advanced Decision Techniques

Objectives/Learning outcomes: Good knowledge of quantitative tools for decision-making.

Contents: This course presents the main quantitative modelling and simulation tools to help in decision-making.

2) Strategy, Innovation and Entrepreneurship

This course focuses on the strategic choices: the decisions that shape the future of an organization. This course will address first the strategic choices that the manager must operate in an entrepreneurship environment (opportunity, business model design), then different options for development and growth patterns (growth internal / external growth, mergers and acquisitions, alliances).

3) Corporate Governance

Objectives/Learning outcomes: At the end of the course, the students:

- will know how to position and use concepts and techniques in finance, accounting, management control and law learnt during the common core subjects in a more global framework of analysis,
- will have learnt the legislation covering corporate governance,
- will be aware of the present developments in practice and the principal discussions concerning corporate governance,
- will be able to establish a diagnosis on the quality of a company's corporate governance.

Contents: It is essential for every manager to understand who determines the objectives of corporations and of other organizations, how they are governed and how their managers are incentivized and monitored. The course covers the following themes: value creation, the legal rules and the practices of company management(remuneration, ethics, social responsibility, governance "codes"), the legal rights and the behaviour of shareholders, the impact of financial markets on governance (shareholders activism, takeovers, LBOs). In addition the students have the opportunity to apply the main concepts and techniques of finance, accounting and management control to the case of a listed company.

4) Geopolitics

Objectives/Learning outcomes: At the end of the course, students will be able to:

- acquire the basics of a geopolitical culture allowing them to develop a reading list for current geopolitical and economic affairs,
- understand the geopolitical conditions for undertaking business in certain emerging and/or risk-laden geopolitical situations.

Contents: The object of this course is to allow students to acquire knowledge about geopolitical and economic affairs in certain zones and emerging and risk-related countries in the world. During the course, the following themes will be covered:

- the globalisation of the economy and its players, notably national States, and international and non-governmental organisations,
- geopolitical and economic analysis of certain countries and zones: Brazil, Russia, China, the Mediterranean and Africa,
- the problems of Afghanistan and Pakistan will also be discussed,
- Europe will be studied through analysis of the different themes mentioned above.

5) Global Marketing and Strategy

Objectives/Learning outcomes : Students will be able to:

- critically analyse and propose well-justified solutions to key Global Marketing Strategy issues.
- develop a Strategic Marketing plan to go global.

Contents: This module takes a decision-making perspective to Marketing Strategy issues, specifically in the global context.

The course will cover:

- Globalization decision and process,
- International market selection,
- International marketing research,
- International market entry strategies and expansion,
- Standardization versus Adaptation of 4 Ps.

6) Leadership and Responsible Management

Objectives/Learning outcomes: At the end of this course, students will:

- understand the organizational and managerial specificities of contemporary organizations,
- know about recent developments in organizational thinking relating to institutional theory, power and politics, routines, and organizational cognition,
- be able to reflect on the specific challenges to leadership and corporate social responsibility in contemporary organizations.

Contents: This course addresses key issues for understanding and managing contemporary organizations. It seeks to move beyond simple managerialist views by integrating recent developments in organizational thinking with the dual challenges of organizational leadership and corporate social responsibility. Topics covered in this course include institutionalized environments, innovation and entrepreneurship, social movements, networks and social capital, power and politics in contemporary organizations, organizational routines and decision making, sense making and cognition in organizations, and organizational change. Each topic will be introduced through case studies alongside theoretical readings, and each of the course sessions will discuss the consequences of these topics for both leadership processes and corporate social responsibility.
The course will be demanding in terms of class preparation, contribution and after-class work, and hopefully rewarding in terms of generating novel insights into contemporary organizational and managerial challenges.

Applied Research Project

During the whole training period, the students, divided into sub-groups of 2-3 students, work on a problematic related a strong issue in the humanitarian and development sector. It is an applied research which leads to a written report in English and its presentation before a jury composed by the tutor and the partner if possible and relevant. This applied research is an integral part of the training programme and it is monitored by a tutor.
The month of December will be specifically dedicated to work on this project.
During the second semester, even if students are abroad, they have to organize themselves to work on this project.
The grade given on this work will be included in the final transcript.

OBJECTIVE

To work as a team during the whole training period to sort out a humanitarian and/or development management issue.

This project will require:

- To write a report in English (20,000 – 25,000 words) which may remain confidential; it is possible to write a summary for the organisation in a foreign language if required. Students have to submit the final report to the tutor 15 days before the oral presentation. The deadline for the oral presentation is mid-november 2014 (15 November 2014);
- To write a case study-based summary;
- To prepare the oral presentation to the jury in English.

STUDENTS’ PROFILES

Students involved in this applied research are from the MSc in Humanitarian Programme Management delivered by ESC Grenoble and Bioforce.

EXPECTED RESULTS

- A specific humanitarian and/or development management issue is defined.
- A bibliographical research is consolidated.
- Concrete proposals and outlooks are drawn up.
- A critical analysis is provided.
- Relevant recommendations are made.

The definition of the issue has to be validated by both Bioforce and ESC Grenoble. A specific deadline will be communicated by Bioforce.

Rigor in diagnostic, analysis and facts interpretations, as well as recommendations will be required.
This work aims to support organizations in their development and functioning. In this way, we expect students to be creative (while being realist) and to practice benchmarks. This research work is neither an operational mission nor a counseling one. The report presented is not an internship report.

EXEMPTION OF “GRAND MÉMOIRE” – FOR THE ESC STUDENTS

Usually, ESC Grenoble students have to write a “Grand mémoire” during their enrollment. As they already write a specific applied research report, they benefit from an exemption of this “Grand mémoire”.

Assignment

Students from the MSc in HPM have to realize an assignment, after their study period, during 20 weeks at least. The presentation before a jury must be done before the 15th of November 2014.
The aim of this assignment is to reinforce students’ autonomy and to further develop their skills as a humanitarian programme manager in the humanitarian and development sector.

Students are to submit to Bioforce assignment terms of reference in order to be validated. As a second step, the ESC Grenoble will give the final validation.

The ESC Grenoble is in charge of all administrative issues regarding the assignment.

The evaluation process for the assignment is the following:

- A written report including :
- a context (region, country, organisation, programme, …) presentation,
- a description and analysis of the objectives and results obtained,
- an analysis of the key challenges faced during the assignment,
- an analysis of the impact of the training period on their professional capacities as a humanitarian programme manager.

- An oral presentation before a jury.

The final mark will be a global mark including the written report and the oral presentation.

Assessment Process

ASSESSMENT PROCESS IN BIOFORCE

The assessment process includes the following exams:

- An individual written exam for the “Managing people and organizations” module. This exam may consist of theoretical questions, exercises or case study linked with the module’s learning outcomes. The student has to obtain a minimum of 10 out of 20 to successfully complete the module.
- An individual written exam for the “Managing programmes and projects” module. This exam may consist of theoretical questions, exercises or case study linked with the module’s learning outcomes. The student has to obtain a minimum of 10 out of 20 to successfully complete the module.
- An individual written exam for the “Managing finance and funding” module. This exam may consist of theoretical questions, exercises or case study linked with the module’s learning outcomes. The student has to obtain a minimum of 10 out of 20 to successfully complete the module.

ASSESSMENT PROCESS IN GRENOBLE ECOLE DE MANAGEMENT

It is a two-stage process:

- For each module, a continuous assessment is managed by a Grenoble Ecole de Management’s permanent professor.
- For some modules, an exam is organized.

To be successfully completed, the student has to obtain a minimum of 10 out of 20. Each module’s responsible define the share of continuous assessment and exam.

CONDITIONS OF GRADUATION

The diploma is delivered to the students:

- Having obtained a minimum of 10 out of 20 to all exams;
- Having produced and supported the presentation of a report demonstrating analysis and synthesis skills.

Admission

To participate to the MSc in Humanitarian Programme Management, the prerequisites are the following:

- Master 1 level or Bachelor’s degree (four years of higher education after baccalauréat) for applicants justifying at least 1 year of professional experience as a project coordinator, administrator or logistician in international solidarity
- By special dispensation, a L3 (licence) level or Bachelor’s degree (three years of higher education after baccalauréat) for applicants justifying an outstanding work experience (more than one year).
- have an English language proficiency level of B2 (according to European language levels - Self Assessment Grid).
- Have a profesional project in programme management (Programme coordinator, Logistics coordinator…)

Please note that these prerequisites provide a base for any validation of the application form. The final decision lies with the Coordinators of the training programme.”

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What is Humanitarian Engineering?

‘Humanitarian Engineering’ is defined as the use of science and engineering to invent, create, design, develop, or improve technologies which promote the well-being of communities which are facing grand humanitarian challenges (fast growing populations, poor, disaster-hit, marginalised, or under-served communities).

The postgraduate course in Humanitarian Engineering is an interdisciplinary innovative educational programme for Humanitarian Engineers which promotes appropriate, sustainable, and holistic solutions to global challenges by integrating science into a broader practical scheme. This unique and cutting-edge programme will enable you to tackle global problems (energy, water, natural disasters, humanitarian logistics, conflict and wars, global health, mixed in with overpopulation, poverty and underinvestment in low-income countries) in an interdisciplinary way and equip them to address causes, consider preventative approaches, and implement suitable responses.

It is a flexible programme that provides students with an academically rigorous postgraduate level interdisciplinary training in the fields of Humanitarian Engineering, spanning from international development to humanitarianism and disaster emergencies. It involves a strong practical component with exposure to the ‘real world’ of organisations and practitioners and experience that boosts employability.

Who is it for?

The course is - by its nature - not a ‘just for Engineers’ course, instead it is for people with background in any of the following subjects: Science (e.g. Chemistry, Physics), Social Sciences (e.g. History, Politics, Sociology), Law, Health, Management, Business and Economics as well as Engineering.

The programme spans a broad range of disciplines and is ideal for students who are looking to explore all the professional and disciplinary facets of humanitarian challenges.

What will you study?

The course develops enterprising, outward-looking graduates who are both equipped to meet society’s newest and pressing challenges, and employers' demands for advanced skills and knowledge, while translating these skills into your chosen arena. Different stakeholders, beneficiaries and users (e.g. industry, policy-makers, and local communities) are involved in the programme, so that knowledge is orientated towards real world problems and challenges.

Those of you who are less tied to the bounded nature of a particular discipline are able to develop and seek learning between, beyond and across disciplines. The programme brings together an exciting group of European and International students with a diversity of academic and professional backgrounds who establish an international alumni network involved in humanitarian engineering research and practice.

At the point of application, you will choose one of three variants. Each variant offers different core and optional modules tailored to one of three pathways: general Humanitarian Engineering, Humanitarian Engineering with Sustainability, and Humanitarian Engineering with Management.

If you are having keen interest in Engineering might wish to pursue the MSc in Humanitarian Engineering with Sustainability, which focuses on renewable energy, and sustainable cities, operations, and infrastructures.

If you wish to pursue Business-related issues might prefer the MSc in Humanitarian Engineering with Management, which offers opportunities to explore project management, communication and leadership, and management of sustainable supply chains.

Course Structure

Core Modules:

• Humanitarian Engineering: Ethics, Theory and Practices (15 credits)
• An introduction to Global Health (15 credits)
• Water and Environmental Management (15 credits)
• One Humanity; Shared Responsibility (15 credits)
• Disasters, Resilience and Urban Data (15 credits)
• Renewable Energy (15 credits)
• Sustainable Operations and Humanitarian Supply Management (15 credits)
• Project Management (15 credits)
• Project (45 credits)

Optional Modules: 

Your choice of optional modules will help you to further tailor the programme to your interests.

• Humanitarian Law (15 credits)
• Sustainable Cities and Infrastructures for Emergencies (15 credits)
• Communication and Leadership (15 credits)
• Sustainable Operations and Humanitarian Supply Management (core module extended from 15 credits to 30 credits)

* The modules mentioned above may be subject to change. Please read our terms and conditions for more detailed information.

Teaching:

Each module will run intensively over one week and will be taught by a variety of methods: seminar, lecture, field research.

Assessment:

The core modules are assessed in a variety of ways: essay, poster, presentation, student-devised assessment.

Career Opportunities

Graduate Destinations: 

Graduates of this programme will work across a broad range of areas. Students are expected to come from a broad array of international and professional backgrounds and go on after graduation into a wide variety of professional positions. Many Humanitarian Engineering graduates will work with the governments of developing countries managing the development process (e.g. central banks, ministries of finance, rural development, and education). Others will go on to multilateral development institutions like the World Bank, the IMF, or the United Nations; others to NGO Leaders of all sizes and descriptions; and still others will go on to work in the private sector, in jobs as diverse as professional services, manufacturing, and investment banking, to name just a few. Some students may decide to pursue PhD studies.

Work Experience Opportunities: 

During the programme, students will have the opportunity to get involved in projects managed by organisations and professional services in developing and transitional countries.

Read less

What is Humanitarian Engineering?

‘Humanitarian Engineering’ is defined as the use of science and engineering to invent, create, design, develop, or improve technologies which promote the well-being of communities which are facing grand humanitarian challenges (fast growing populations, poor, disaster-hit, marginalised, or under-served communities).

The postgraduate course in Humanitarian Engineering is an interdisciplinary innovative educational programme for Humanitarian Engineers which promotes appropriate, sustainable, and holistic solutions to global challenges by integrating science into a broader practical scheme. This unique and cutting-edge programme will enable you to tackle global problems (energy, water, natural disasters, humanitarian logistics, conflict and wars, global health, mixed in with overpopulation, poverty and underinvestment in low-income countries) in an interdisciplinary way and equip them to address causes, consider preventative approaches, and implement suitable responses.

It is a flexible programme that provides students with an academically rigorous postgraduate level interdisciplinary training in the fields of Humanitarian Engineering, spanning from international development to humanitarianism and disaster emergencies. It involves a strong practical component with exposure to the ‘real world’ of organisations and practitioners and experience that boosts employability.

Who is it for?

The course is - by its nature - not a ‘just for Engineers’ course, instead it is for people with background in any of the following subjects: Science (e.g. Chemistry, Physics), Social Sciences (e.g. History, Politics, Sociology), Law, Health, Management, Business and Economics as well as Engineering.

The programme spans a broad range of disciplines and is ideal for students who are looking to explore all the professional and disciplinary facets of humanitarian challenges.

What will you study?

The course develops enterprising, outward-looking graduates who are both equipped to meet society’s newest and pressing challenges, and employers' demands for advanced skills and knowledge, while translating these skills into your chosen arena. Different stakeholders, beneficiaries and users (e.g. industry, policy-makers, and local communities) are involved in the programme, so that knowledge is orientated towards real world problems and challenges.

Those of you who are less tied to the bounded nature of a particular discipline are able to develop and seek learning between, beyond and across disciplines. The programme brings together an exciting group of European and International students with a diversity of academic and professional backgrounds who establish an international alumni network involved in humanitarian engineering research and practice.

At the point of application, you will choose one of three variants. Each variant offers different core and optional modules tailored to one of three pathways: general Humanitarian Engineering, Humanitarian Engineering with Sustainability, and Humanitarian Engineering with Management.

If you are having keen interest in Engineering might wish to pursue the MSc in Humanitarian Engineering with Sustainability, which focuses on renewable energy, and sustainable cities, operations, and infrastructures.

If you wish to pursue Business-related issues might prefer the MSc in Humanitarian Engineering with Management, which offers opportunities to explore project management, communication and leadership, and management of sustainable supply chains.

Course Structure

Core Modules:

• Ethics, Theory and Practices (15 credits)
• Humanitarian Engineering: Ethics, Theory and Practices (15 credits)
• An introduction to Global Health (15 credits)
• Water and Environmental Management (15 credits)
• One Humanity; Shared Responsibility (15 credits)
• Disasters, Resilience and Urban Data (15 credits)
• Renewable Energy (15 credits)
• Project (45 credits)

Optional Modules: 

Your choice of optional modules will help you to further tailor the programme to your interests. 

Optional core module:

• Humanitarian Law (15 credits)

List A:

• Sustainable Cities and Infrastructures for Emergencies (15 credits)
• Sustainable Operations and Humanitarian Supply Management (15 credits)

List B:

• Communication and Leadership (15 credits)
• Design for Sustainability (15 credits)
• Project Management (15 credits)

For a PgD (120 credits), students must take all core modules for 90 credits, and any combination of optional modules for 30 credits (excluding List B modules). The project will not be undertaken in such cases.

For a PgC (60 credits) the student must take any combination of core modules for 60 credits or any combination of core and optional modules for at least 30 credits of core modules and a maximum of 30 credits of optional modules (excluding List B modules).

_{* The modules mentioned above may be subject to change. Please read our terms and conditions for more detailed information.}

Teaching:

Each module will run intensively over one week and will be taught by a variety of methods: seminar, lecture, field research.

Assessment:

The core modules are assessed in a variety of ways: essay, poster, presentation, student-devised assessment.

Career Opportunities

Graduate Destinations: 

Graduates of this programme will work across a broad range of areas. Students are expected to come from a broad array of international and professional backgrounds and go on after graduation into a wide variety of professional positions. Many Humanitarian Engineering graduates will work with the governments of developing countries managing the development process (e.g. central banks, ministries of finance, rural development, and education). Others will go on to multilateral development institutions like the World Bank, the IMF, or the United Nations; others to NGO Leaders of all sizes and descriptions; and still others will go on to work in the private sector, in jobs as diverse as professional services, manufacturing, and investment banking, to name just a few. Some students may decide to pursue PhD studies.

Work Experience Opportunities: 

During the programme, students will have the opportunity to get involved in projects managed by organisations and professional services in developing and transitional countries.

Read less

What is Humanitarian Engineering?

‘Humanitarian Engineering’ is defined as the use of science and engineering to invent, create, design, develop, or improve technologies which promote the well-being of communities which are facing grand humanitarian challenges (fast growing populations, poor, disaster-hit, marginalised, or under-served communities).

The postgraduate course in Humanitarian Engineering is an interdisciplinary innovative educational programme for Humanitarian Engineers which promotes appropriate, sustainable, and holistic solutions to global challenges by integrating science into a broader practical scheme. This unique and cutting-edge programme will enable you to tackle global problems (energy, water, natural disasters, humanitarian logistics, conflict and wars, global health, mixed in with overpopulation, poverty and underinvestment in low-income countries) in an interdisciplinary way and equip them to address causes, consider preventative approaches, and implement suitable responses.

It is a flexible programme that provides students with an academically rigorous postgraduate level interdisciplinary training in the fields of Humanitarian Engineering, spanning from international development to humanitarianism and disaster emergencies. It involves a strong practical component with exposure to the ‘real world’ of organisations and practitioners and experience that boosts employability.

Who is it for?

The course is - by its nature - not a ‘just for Engineers’ course, instead it is for people with background in any of the following subjects: Science (e.g. Chemistry, Physics), Social Sciences (e.g. History, Politics, Sociology), Law, Health, Management, Business and Economics as well as Engineering.

The programme spans a broad range of disciplines and is ideal for students who are looking to explore all the professional and disciplinary facets of humanitarian challenges.

What will you study?

The course develops enterprising, outward-looking graduates who are both equipped to meet society’s newest and pressing challenges, and employers' demands for advanced skills and knowledge, while translating these skills into your chosen arena. Different stakeholders, beneficiaries and users (e.g. industry, policy-makers, and local communities) are involved in the programme, so that knowledge is orientated towards real world problems and challenges.

Those of you who are less tied to the bounded nature of a particular discipline are able to develop and seek learning between, beyond and across disciplines. The programme brings together an exciting group of European and International students with a diversity of academic and professional backgrounds who establish an international alumni network involved in humanitarian engineering research and practice.

At the point of application, you will choose one of three variants. Each variant offers different core and optional modules tailored to one of three pathways: general Humanitarian Engineering, Humanitarian Engineering with Sustainability, and Humanitarian Engineering with Management.

If you are having keen interest in Engineering might wish to pursue the MSc in Humanitarian Engineering with Sustainability, which focuses on renewable energy, and sustainable cities, operations, and infrastructures.

If you wish to pursue Business-related issues might prefer the MSc in Humanitarian Engineering with Management, which offers opportunities to explore project management, communication and leadership, and management of sustainable supply chains.

Course Structure

Core Modules:

• Humanitarian Engineering: Ethics, Theory and Practices (15 credits)
• An introduction to Global Health (15 credits)
• Water and Environmental Management (15 credits)
• One Humanity; Shared Responsibility (15 credits)
• Disasters, Resilience and Urban Data (15 credits)
• Renewable Energy (15 credits)
• Sustainable Operations and Humanitarian Supply Management (15 credits)
• Sustainable Cities and Infrastructures for Emergencies (15 credits)
• Project (45 credits)

Optional Modules: 

Your choice of optional modules will help you to further tailor the programme to your interests.

• Humanitarian Law (15 credits)
• Design for Sustainability (15 credits)
• Renewable Energy (core module extended from 15 credits to 30 credits)
• Sustainable Cities and Infrastructures for Emergencies (core module extended from 15 credits to 30 credits)
• Disasters, Resilience and Urban Data (core module extended from 15 credits to 30 credits)

 * The modules mentioned above may be subject to change. Please read our terms and conditions for more detailed information.

Teaching:

Each module will run intensively over one week and will be taught by a variety of methods: seminar, lecture, field research.

Assessment:

The core modules are assessed in a variety of ways: essay, poster, presentation, student-devised assessment.

Career Opportunities

Graduate Destinations: 

Graduates of this programme will work across a broad range of areas. Students are expected to come from a broad array of international and professional backgrounds and go on after graduation into a wide variety of professional positions. Many Humanitarian Engineering graduates will work with the governments of developing countries managing the development process (e.g. central banks, ministries of finance, rural development, and education). Others will go on to multilateral development institutions like the World Bank, the IMF, or the United Nations; others to NGO Leaders of all sizes and descriptions; and still others will go on to work in the private sector, in jobs as diverse as professional services, manufacturing, and investment banking, to name just a few. Some students may decide to pursue PhD studies.

Work Experience Opportunities: 

During the programme, students will have the opportunity to get involved in projects managed by organisations and professional services in developing and transitional countries.

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Postgraduate Loans are now Open for Home/EU students - https://www.gov.uk/postgraduate-loan/how-to-apply

Scholarships & Discounts available

• North West Progression Discount - LSTM are pleased to offer a 20% Discount for Undergraduate students to progress to Masters level study. Eligible students must be based, or have studied in the North West of England.  
• Alumni Loyalty Tuition Fee Discounts - Generous discounts available across all taught programmes.
• LSTM Merit Scholarships - Tuition Fee discount up to £1,500 for Home/EU students and up to £10,000 for International Students.

The programme reviews historical and current policies and practice in humanitarian assistance, analyses the effect of war, natural disasters and the international economy on social dislocation, health and wellbeing, investigates the evidence base for current operational guidelines 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 environments where demands extend beyond conventional professional boundaries. Opportunities for in-depth study include regional and country case studies and a choice of 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.

AIMS

LSTM education courses are taught within a dynamic environment by staff working at the cutting-edge of research in tropical medicine and global health. They are designed to enable the professional development of the student, to be relevant to students from both the UK and overseas and to promote approaches to study that will enable students to continue their learning into the future. 

This course aims to: 

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 review critically and debate key issues of mutual interest.

Give participants an opportunity to conduct an independent in-depth research study of a specialist aspect of humanitarian interventions in the field

Provide experienced humanitarian workers with a deeper understanding of the political economy of humanitarian emergencies including the internally displaced, refugees and migrants: the historical context; regional and country case studies; the effect of war and natural disasters and the international economy on social dislocation, health and wellbeing.

Give participants an opportunity to conduct an independent in-depth research study of a specialist aspect of humanitarian interventions in the field.

Produce graduates who are experienced, committed, informed, proactive and effective professionals, capable of taking substantial and leading professional roles in humanitarian interventions.

Facilitate high quality learning that is informed by critical analysis of current research.

Develop independent and reflective approaches to study that will enable graduates to continue to learn in the future.

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, equip graduates to practice 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, and so on.

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This online course is for practitioners in humanitarian and peacebuilding field. This course has been designed using the knowledge and expertise of both the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and the Centre for Development and Emergency Practice (CENDEP).

Built on the experiences and expertise developed by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and the Centre for Development and Emergency Practice (CENDEP) at Oxford Brookes University, the MA explores the interactions between humanitarian action and peacebuilding. It links applied knowledge and practice with theory through online lectures, action research, sharing of experiences, discussions with key practitioners, and critical reflection on practices. 

This programme is designed mainly for practitioners working in the fields of humanitarian action and peacebuilding, though it is open also to those working in related fields. It allows you to broaden your perceptions, critically review your role, and develop and refine hard and soft skills needed to work effectively in the fields of humanitarian action and peacebuilding. The programme is also relevant for practitioners working in other fields, interested in exploring new opportunities in conflict transformation.

Why choose this course?

• Flexible and user-friendly online learning environment allowing you to learn from your workplace
• Investigating cutting-edge issues in the field of humanitarian action and peacebuilding, proposing innovative tools and reflecting on current field practices
• Designed and delivered jointly by Oxford Brookes University and the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) offering you access to resources and support from both institutions online and in the field through UN missions 
• Unparalleled support from a team of academic experts and top-ranked practitioners as well as field experts for specific topics
• Founded on action-research, and on populations and employers' direct needs in humanitarian and peacebuilding programming 
• Access to a worldwide community of learners. 

This course in detail

This is the first MA aimed at investigating the interactions between humanitarian action and peacebuilding, merging knowledge and know-how developed in both fields to promote better targeted initiatives and comprehensive responses. This MA is also one of the first Masters working on the principle that long-term and sustainable peace can only be built by local and national actors and initiatives. Therefore culture sensitivity, community initiatives and local responses are at the core of the learning process. 

To explore the links between humanitarian action and peacebuilding and learning from field practices, the MA relies on three distinctive features brought together to propose a unique and innovative learning approach: 

• Based entirely on online delivery to create a web-based learning community, the MA offers a flexible and diverse method based mostly on collaborative work. A large portion of the learning activities are based on discussion and confrontation of ideas and practices to enhance peer to peer learning and discourse. 
• The workplace is intended to be the main learning environment, to allow learners from all countries to engage with this global community of reflective practitioners. As a result, case studies, action research and hands-on exercises with live and field-based problems, working with communities, practitioners and agencies are an integral part of the programme. 
• Based on innovative multicultural and multidisciplinary approaches, the MA uses studies and theories from social sciences, peace and conflict studies, humanities, management, political sciences, law, urban planning and architecture. It also merges practice-based knowledge produced by field practitioners and research outputs from practice-oriented scholars. The diversity of learners and lecturers creates a unique opportunity to merge and discuss different cultural paradigms, perceptions and intellectual traditions.

This part-time programme is usually studied over 30 months. However, you are able to take up to 5 years to complete the necessary credits or to finish it in 24 months if you can take time out of work to complete the programme.

It is constituted of three core modules; three issue-based modules as well as a research skills module as preparation for the dissertation.

How this course helps you develop

• This programme will allow you to strengthen your professional network as you will be working collaboratively with other professionals and experts based in different humanitarian fields of operation.
• It will allow you to strengthen you digital literacy and distance team-working
•  It will develop self-reflective approaches and allow you to appraise critically your work environment.  

Careers

This course is ideal for a career in the field of humanitarian action, conflict transformation or related fields - such as civil servants or diplomats in charge of humanitarian affairs, academics teaching humanitarian practices, journalists seeking a better understanding of humanitarian issues, or military personnel ready to be deployed in a field of operation where humanitarian actions are taking place.

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Postgraduate Loans are now Open for Home/EU students - https://www.gov.uk/postgraduate-loan/how-to-apply

Scholarships & Discounts available

• North West Progression Discount - LSTM are pleased to offer a 20% Discount for Undergraduate students to progress to Masters level study. Eligible students must be based, or have studied in the North West of England.  
• Alumni Loyalty Tuition Fee Discounts - Generous discounts available across all taught programmes.
• LSTM Merit Scholarships - Tuition Fee discount up to £1,500 for Home/EU students and up to £10,000 for International Students.

The programme investigates current approaches to humanitarian health programme management and identifies and develops models of good practice. It is a multidisciplinary programme designed to meet the growing requirement for professional management training in humanitarian aid to meet the needs of development organisations managing increasingly complex and costly programmes. Opportunities for in-depth study include regional and country case studies and a choice of 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.

AIMS

LSTM education courses are taught within a dynamic environment by staff working at the cutting-edge of research in tropical medicine and global health. They are designed to enable the professional development of the student, to be relevant to students from both the UK and overseas and to promote approaches to study that will enable students to continue their learning into the future. 

This course aims to: 

Explain the political and economic determinants of health and well-being in humanitarian emergencies and review critically the evolution of and current debate on approaches to sustainable development.

Provide participants with the practical skills and confidence required to manage the financial aspects of humanitarian programmes, to maximise their efficiency, effectiveness and accountability.

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 review critically and debate key issues of mutual interest.

Give participants an opportunity to conduct an independent in-depth research study of a specialist aspect of humanitarian interventions in the field.

Produce graduates who are experienced, committed, informed, proactive and effective professionals, capable of taking substantial and leading professional roles in managing humanitarian interventions.

Facilitate high quality learning that is informed by critical analysis of current research.

Develop independent and reflective approaches to study that will enable graduates to continue to learn in the future.

CAREERS

The skills, knowledge, and understanding of humanitarian issues gained during the programme, equip graduates to practice 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, social enterprises, law, social work, Political Advisor in the British Parliament, and so on.

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In this three-semester Master's programme you will strengthen your academic understanding of International Humanitarian Action. You will also acquire practical skills for working in the area of humanitarian aid, such as policy-making.

The programme is an international Erasmus Mundus Master's programme. It is offered by nine European universities, namely in the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, Germany, Ireland, Belgium and France. These universities are united in the Network on Humanitarian Action (NOHA).

In this programme you will learn to evaluate humanitarian emergencies. You will study the causes of conflicts and different coping strategies for conflicts and disasters. In addition, you will learn to plan and assess intervention and reconstruction programmes. Also, you will acquire practical skills such as management skills and cross-cultural communication skills.

You will take courses such as Geopolitics in Humanitarian Action and Comprehensive Security and Disaster Analysis. You will do a career-oriented internship in a humanitarian organization and write a thesis.

Why in Groningen?

- Erasmus Mundus Master of Excellence with double degree awards
- Erasmus Mundus scholarships
- Unique, multilingual, interdisciplinary and interuniversity programme
- Consortium of several European universities
- Unique combination of hands-on practice and theory
- Career-oriented internship in humanitarian organizations

Job perspectives

This programme prepares you for an international career. Most graduates work in the field of humanitarian action and international cooperation as representatives of intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations. They also work as managers, fundraisers, policymakers and researchers.

Job examples

- Manager non-profit organization
- Policymaker

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Course content

Develop an in-depth understanding of contemporary development issues, and gain the specialist skills to work in peacebuilding, conflict analysis and humanitarian response.

Whether you are a graduate aiming to pursue a development or humanitarian career in conflict-affected regions, or a professional wishing to deepen your knowledge and critical thinking, this course is for you.

The course addresses the core global challenges of conflict and humanitarian crisis and explores a variety of tools and approaches for responding in these contexts. Rooted in real-world practical and policy challenges, the course is founded on Bath’s outstanding international expertise in international development. It uses innovative learning approaches to promote in-depth investigation of cases and issues, while drawing links across global, regional, national and local scales.

The course offers you the opportunity of a placement-based research project, providing hands-on experience to complement classroom-based learning.

You will leave the course with:

• in-depth and interdisciplinary understanding of the theories and concepts that underpin contemporary humanitarian action and conflict response
• a critical understanding of humanitarian, peacebuilding and development policy and practice
• practical skills in research, analysis and communication and an understanding of how these can be applied to the fields of humanitarianism, conflict and development
• rich experience of working with people from a wide range of disciplinary, professional and national backgrounds

Learning and teaching

You will join the Department of Social & Policy Studies here at Bath. We are ranked in the top 50 for Development Studies in the QS World University Rankings 2017.

Our staff are all active in this field, research-led, and united in their commitment to finding better solutions to the world’s development problems.

We encourage diversity of intake, in experience, qualifications and interests, to stimulate the richness of experience and learning.

Graduate prospects

Our international development courses provide an excellent grounding for careers in international development, humanitarian action, and working for social, economic and environmental justice in both global North and global South. They provide the core skills required in a range of policy, communication, advocacy, research and programmatic roles.

Many of our graduates from similar courses have found jobs with high profile organisations, including:

• Economic Development Team Leader for the UK Department for International Development Palestinian programme in Jerusalem
• Outreach Channel Director at Marie Stopes International
• Humanitarian Policy Manager at Plan International
• Microfinance Partnerships Manager at One Acre Fund
• Regional Projects Manager at International Alert
• Private Sector Development Adviser at the UK Department for International Development
• Power Sector Policy Adviser at the UK Department for International Development
• Chair of the South West International Development Network and Executive Director of the Development Studies Association

Other graduates have chosen to work for themselves and set up their own charities, while some have stayed in academia to complete doctoral studies.

Course structure

This course lasts 1 year. Occasionally we make changes to our programmes in response to, for example, feedback from students, developments in research and the field of studies, and the requirements of accrediting bodies. You will be advised of any significant changes to the advertised programme, in accordance with our Terms and Conditions.

The total number of credits for the taught-stage is 60 credits, with most units being 12 Credits. A typical week would approximately average between 6-10 hours of classes or seminars a week depending on options taken. The dissertation or practicum are 30 credits.

Units

Compulsory course units

These compulsory units are currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new units.

Semester 1

• Doing research for international development
• History and theory of international development
• Conflict, development and peacebuilding

Semester 2

• Doing research for international development
• Humanitarianism
• Plus one optional unit

Summer

• Either Dissertation or Practicum

Optional course units

These optional units are currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new units.

• Management of international development
• Global political economy
• Sustainability and wellbeing
• International development policy analysis and evaluation
• Education and international development

Placement

As an alternative to writing a dissertation, you’ll have the opportunity to undertake a six-week placement (practicum), working with an organisation involved in international development. You'll write a report reflecting on a particular area of professional practice.

Learning and assessment

Learning

• Lectures
• Online resources
• Practical sessions
• Seminars
• Tutorials
• Workshops

Assessment

• Attendance
• Coursework
• Dissertation
• Essay
• Online assessment
• Oral assessment
• Portfolio
• Practical work
• Residential
• Seminar
• Thesis
• Work-based placement
• Written examination
• Other

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About the course

Over the last ten years, global aspirations to reduce the suffering of the "bottom billion" have led to unprecedented attention on international development. International agencies, governments and NGOs are working more intensely than ever before to deliver appropriate policies and interventions.

Anthropology has played a key role in the emergence of new perspectives on humanitarian assistance and the livelihoods of populations caught up in extreme circumstances such as famines, natural disasters and wars.

On the one hand, this has led to a radical re-thinking of what has been happening, but on the other hand, it has led to anthropologists sometimes playing controversial roles in agendas associated with the "war on terror".

This course examines these contemporary issues and debates, and explores their implications. It also sets them in the context of anthropology as a discipline.

The course will appeal to graduates from a variety of backgrounds, including: anthropology, sociology, economics, politics, geography, law and development studies. It is suited for those interested in critically assessing the policies and practices of international development and humanitarian assistance to war-affected regions from an anthropological perspective.

It will provide the necessary training to enable students to seek employment with NGOs (such as Oxfam and Save the Children Fund), international agencies (such as the World Health Organisation and the World Food Programme) and the civil service (such as the UK Department for International Development).

It will also provide a useful stepping stone for those seeking to undertake doctoral research in international development.

Anthropology at Brunel is well-known for its focus on ethnographic fieldwork: as well as undertaking rigorous intellectual training, all our students are expected to get out of the library and undertake their own, original research – whether in the UK or overseas – and to present their findings in a dissertation. Students take this opportunity to travel to a wide variety of locations across the world – see “Special Features” for more details.

Attendance for lectures full-time: 2 days per week - for 24 weeks
Attendance for lectures part-time: 1 day per week - for 24 weeks (in each of 2 years)

Aims

You will discover how the apparent insights and skills of anthropologists have a long history associated with ethnographic work on economics, education, health, deprivation and conceptions of suffering dating back to the origins of the discipline.

Course Content

The MSc consists of both compulsory and optional modules, a typical selection can be found below. Modules can vary from year to year, but these offer a good idea of what we teach.

Full-time

Compulsory

Compulsory Reading Module: Political and Economic Issues in Anthropology
Compulsory Reading Module: Contemporary Anthropological Theory
Ethnographic Research Methods 1
Ethnographic Research Methods 2
Anthropology of International Development
Dissertation in Anthropology of International Development and Humanitarian Assistance
Anthropological Perspectives of Humanitarian Assistance
Anthropological Perspectives of War

Optional

Dept. of Social Sciences, Media and Communications (Anthropology)
The Anthropology of Childhood
The Anthropology of Youth
The Anthropology of Global Health
Applied Medical Anthropology in the arena of Global Health
Anthropology of Education
Anthropology of Learning
Ethnicity, Identity and Culture
Medical Anthropology in Clinical and Community Settings
Dept of Politics, History and Law
Globalisation
Dept of Clinical Sciences
Global Agendas on Young People, Rights and Participation
Young Lives in the Global South
International Development, Children and Youth
Brunel Law School
Minority and Indigenous Rights
The United Nations Human Rights Regime
Theory and Practice of Human Rights
The Migrant, the State and the Law
Brunel Business School
International Business Ethics and Corporate Governance

Part-time

Year 1

Compulsory Reading Module: Political and Economic Issues in Anthropology
Anthropology of International Development
Compulsory Reading Module: Contemporary Anthropological Theory

Year 2

Ethnographic Research Methods 1
Ethnographic Research Methods 2
Dissertation in Anthropology of International Development and Humanitarian Assistance
Anthropological Perspectives of Humanitarian Assistance
Anthropological Perspectives of War

Special Features

While its approach is anthropological, this degree offers genuine multi-disciplinary possibilities by drawing on modules from Politics, Health Sciences, Law and Business.

Students will have the opportunity to explore the multiplicity of issues arising from critical shifts in global policy across the following key themes:

The ways in which economic anthropologists have enhanced our understandings of livelihoods in ways that are dramatically different to dominant approaches in economics.
The hazards and limitations of relying solely upon biomedical interventions to alleviate suffering and sickness.
The ostensibly positive relationship between education and development, and the role of education as a vehicle for eradicating illiteracy and lowering fertility and mortality rates.

An exploration of such themes together will make it possible for students to think and engage in new and critical ways about the relationship between anthropology and development.

All our degrees (whether full- or part-time) combine intensive coursework, rigorous training in ethnographic research methods, and a period of fieldwork in the summer term (final summer term if part-time) leading to a 15,000 word dissertation.

Students are free to choose their own research topic and geographic area, in consultation with their academic supervisor. In all cases, the dissertation research project provides valuable experience and in many cases it leads to job contacts – forming a bridge to a future career or time out for career development.

In recent years, students have undertaken fieldwork in locations across the world, including India, Mexico, Bolivia, Papua New Guinea, China, Nepal, Peru, Morocco, and New Zealand as well as within the UK and the rest of Europe.

Teaching and Assessment

Teaching

You will be taught via a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, tutorials and film.

Assessment

Assessment is variously by essay and practical assignment (e.g. analysis of a short field exercise). A final dissertation of approximately 15,000 words based on fieldwork in the UK or abroad, is also required. There are no examinations.

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About the course

The LLM in Human Rights and Humanitarian Law provides a comprehensive overview of international law and how it works in the contemporary world. The course balances the academic with the urgently practical – for example, combining the necessarily comprehensive detail of human rights legislation in conflict with the harsh reality of the threat posed to human rights by the same conflict. Other modules will tackle significant issues such as the ‘victory’ of democracy on the international stage and the ideological change that has shifted it in the West from a system of government to 'the only route to ensure peace and prosperity’ in places like the Middle East.

An important part of the course is the writing of a detailed dissertation within the specialism of your choice. This is your opportunity to select a project topic which has a direct bearing on your professional life. Previous LLM students at Aberystwyth have found this opportunity to be invaluable in establishing a successful career.

The course will be particularly attractive to those seeking a career in government departments, international organisations, humanitarian and human rights advocacy, business organisations, international law firms and a range of non-governmental organisations.

The Department of Law and Criminology recently participated in the Research Excellence Framework (2014) assessment. It found that 96.5% of publications submitted were of of an internationally recognised standard and that 98% of research activity in the department was rated as internationally recognised.

This degree will suit you:

• If you want to study an area of law with urgent contemporary significance and practical relevance
• If you wish to develop a critical appreciation of legal responses to humanitarian and human rights issues
• If you wish to nurture a legal career within government, non-governmental or corporate structures
• If you desire skills highly sought-after in any postgraduate workplace

Course content

Core modules:

Dissertation
International Human Rights Law
International Humanitarian Law
Philosophy of Human Rights Protection
Public International Law

Optional modules:

Climate Change Law and Policy
Contemporary Issues in Food Policy and Law
Criminology of International Conflict Personnel
Human Rights, Environment and International Business
Law and Gender

Assessment

Assessment takes the form of; research proposals including a related bibliographic element, case studies, oral assessments and essays. Each student will complete a master’s dissertation of 15,000 to 20,000 words which deals with an area of chosen study in the third semester.

Employability

Every course at Aberystwyth University is designed to enhance your vocational and general employability. Your LLM will place you in the jobs market as a rigorous legal professional armed with impressive expertise in the latest legal developments in the field of Human Rights and Humanitarian law. In addition, this course will help you to master key skills that are required in almost every postgraduate workplace. You will be pushed to improve your approaches to planning, analysis and presentation so that you can tackle complex projects thoroughly and with professional independence, making you a highly-desirable candidate for a career in government, non-governmental and corporate contexts alike.

Study skills

You will learn to quickly assemble, assimilate and interpret a wealth of legal data regarding Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, and you will refine your professional practices by engagement with multiple case studies. You will learn how to deploy your knowledge to assert your expertise and build your legal case. These skills in analysis and discourse, supported by your mastery of rigorous methodologies, will stand you in good stead for any professional workplace.

Self-motivation and discipline

Studying at LLM level requires discipline and self-motivation from every candidate. Though you will have access to the expertise and helpful guidance of departmental staff, you are ultimately responsible for devising and completing a sustained programme of scholarly research in pursuit of your Master’s degree. This process will strengthen your skills as an independent and self-sufficient worker, a trait prized by most employers.

Transferable skills

The LLM programme is designed to give you a range of transferable skills that you can apply in a variety of employment contexts. Upon graduation, you will have proven your abilities in structuring and communicating ideas efficiently, writing for and speaking to a range of audiences, evaluating and organizing information, working effectively with others and working within timeframes and to specific deadlines.

Read less

Postgraduate Loans are now Open for Home/EU students - https://www.gov.uk/postgraduate-loan/how-to-apply

Scholarships & Discounts available

• North West Progression Discount - LSTM are pleased to offer a 20% Discount for Undergraduate students to progress to Masters level study. Eligible students must be based, or have studied in the North West of England.  
• Alumni Loyalty Tuition Fee Discounts - Generous discounts available across all taught programmes.
• LSTM Merit Scholarships - Tuition Fee discount up to £1,500 for Home/EU students and up to £10,000 for International Students.

This programme aims to equip graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to provide leadership and technical support in public health in middle and low income countries. It covers a wide range of topics in public and global health, including key disciplinary skills in epidemiology and social science and applied topics such as disease control and programme management. The programme has a specialist focus on humanitarian assistance, examining current policies and practice in the field and exploring approaches to responding to the challenges of contemporary humanitarian problems. Following the taught component, participants complete a dissertation including a period of applied research either overseas or in Liverpool.

AIMS

LSTM education courses are taught within a dynamic environment by staff working at the cutting-edge of research in tropical medicine and global health. They are designed to enable the professional development of the student, to be relevant to students from both the UK and overseas and to promote approaches to study that will enable students to continue their learning into the future. 

This course aims to: 

Provide a critical understanding of a range of health policies and strategies in a variety of social, epidemiological, cultural, economic and political settings in middle- and low- income countries.

Enable students to analyse critically, evaluate and conduct responsive, public health-related research and apply evidence to everyday practice.

Produce graduates who are experienced, committed, informed, proactive and effective professionals, capable of taking substantial and leading professional roles in order to promote improved health and well-being in middle and low income countries.

Facilitate high quality learning that is informed by critical analysis of current research.

Develop independent and reflective approaches to study that will enable graduates to continue to learn in the future.

Provide students with the skills, knowledge and understanding of humanitarian issues needed to practise at a senior level in organisations involved in the prevention of and response to humanitarian crises.

CAREERS

There are many career opportunities within the field of Public Health throughout the world. Public Health, and in particular our response to humanitarian crises, has been highlighted by the recent War in Syria, the refugee camps and mass migration from the area, natural disasters such as earthquakes and tsunami’s worldwide, the Ebola outbreak in West Africa, H5N1 Avian Influenza, Zika Virus, and MERS. People with public health skills and a knowledge of the humanitarian sector are highly sought after. Past alumni of this course typically go and work for health ministries, health departments, national or international NGO’s, UN Agencies, aid organisations, or universities. The international research project allows you to ‘prove’ yourself in the sector by working with an NGO for your research in a mutually beneficial manner.

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The MSc in International Humanitarian Affairs is unique as an interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary postgraduate programme that examines the changing nature of humanitarianism that is offered exclusively online. The Department of Health Sciences delivers the MSc in collaboration with experts on humanitarianism from the United Nations, IFRC, INGOs, academic institutions and community groups in Africa, Asia and the Middle East and many other individuals working throughout the world on humanitarian policy and delivery.

The MIHA

The MIHA provides an academic setting for professionals:
-To develop how they understand and respond to humanitarian needs in complex operational contexts such as violent conflict, natural hazards and political crises.
-To examine and analyse contemporary issues, challenges and dilemmas using social, political, cultural, economic and environmental perspectives, lived experiences of crisis-affected communities and changing policy debates as well as the technical approaches of the main humanitarian sectors.
-To gain advanced academic and policy skills, and learn how to use theory to maintain good practice.
-Teaching will be led by the dedicated MIHA team of experienced academic staff and will also be provided by academics, policy makers and practitioners in the field of humanitarian affairs.

Learning Experience

As a MIHA student you will be able to access the in-depth knowledge base at the Department of Health Sciences through a unique learning and teaching experience whilst gaining a globally recognised postgraduate qualification.

Learning Tools
Students can enjoy the use of a wide variety of learning tools, available to them throughout the duration of their study. The dynamic range of learning tools includes:
• Participatory learning and teaching methodologies;
• Experiential and problem-solving approaches;
• Interactive online discussions;
• Collaborative exercises and case study materials;
• Webinars for each module with leading academic, policy or practice experts;
• Bespoke study materials;
• Private study exercises; and
• Access to extensive online library at the University of York

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Gain a deep insight into conflict and humanitarian crisis, and equip yourself with the specialist grounding to be able to have a real impact in this field.

If you work in humanitarian and conflict response, or aspire to do so, this master’s will put you in a strong position for working, and progressing, in this specialist field of work.

The course addresses the core global challenges of conflict and humanitarian crises, and explores a variety of tools and approaches for responding to, and mitigating, them.

You’ll unpick the multi-faceted issues involved in resolving conflict and promoting peace, while exploring sustainable policy solutions that address the needs of those displaced by conflict and natural disaster.

Drawing on insightful case studies from the Middle East and North Africa, sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, you’ll learn how the practical and policy-related challenges of responding to conflict and humanitarian crisis play out in specific contexts.

You will join the Department of Social & Policy Sciences at Bath. Our staff are all active in this field, research-led, and with strong connections to universities and humanitarian organisations around the world.

The course is offered on a part-time, blended-learning basis, with two residentials in Bath, and the remainder of the content delivered online. This means you can study with us at your own pace, and fit in your learning alongside your professional commitments.

There’s also an optional third residential in Amman, Jordan, offering you a unique opportunity to learn from senior policymakers and explore issues relating to human displacement and humanitarianism in a real-world context.

You will leave this course with:

• in-depth knowledge of humanitarian, conflict response and development policy and practice
• the analytical skills to tackle the political, ethical and practical tensions involved
• the ability to analyse and evaluate diverse perspectives and tools for conflict response and humanitarian action across different settings
• an established professional network for continued knowledge sharing and effective career development

Graduate prospects

This course provides an excellent background for those wishing to pursue a career in humanitarian, conflict response, or peacebuilding. It is equally relevant to those already working in the humanitarian and conflict fields, seeking to advance their careers with a deeper level of specialist knowledge.

You will be well qualified to work with development or humanitarian NGOs, the United Nations and other inter-governmental organisations, or in conflict or humanitarian advisor roles in government departments such as DFID.

You could also progress onto doctoral studies.

Course structure

This course lasts 2 years. Occasionally we make changes to our programmes in response to, for example, feedback from students, developments in research and the field of studies, and the requirements of accrediting bodies. You will be advised of any significant changes to the advertised programme, in accordance with our Terms and Conditions.

Register for a call back

If you'd like to find out more about this course then we can arrange for the Director of Studies, Dr Oliver Walton to call you.

Register your details for a call back

Units

Compulsory course units

These compulsory units are currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new units.

Year 1

• Conflict, development and peacebuilding
• Humanitarianism in principle and practice

Year 2

• Approaches to human rights
• Negotiating the field
• Dissertation

Learning and assessment

Learning

• Lectures
• Online resources
• Practical sessions
• Seminars
• Tutorials
• Workshops

Assessment

• Coursework
• Dissertation
• Essay
• Online assessment
• Oral assessment
• Residential
• Seminar
• Other

Read less

About the course

Our LLM in Human Rights and Humanitarian Law is your opportunity to engage with the distinct yet complementary regimes of human rights law and humanitarian law and to study an area of law with urgent contemporary significance and practical relevance. By studying this course, you will tackle traditional subjects as well as new and emerging issues, such as the regulation of international society and the legal mechanisms of human rights during international and non-international armed conflicts. Your study will reflect the local, national and international nuances of this complex subject matter.

Why study Human Rights and Humanitarian Law at Aberystwyth University?

96.5% of Aberystwyth Law School’s publications were judged to be of an internationally recognised standard or higher in the most recent research assessment – REF 2014

All members of academic staff in Aberystwyth Law School are active in research and publication and participate in national and international debate and policy-making in legal and related fields

Aberystwyth is a multinational community. Aberystwyth Law School participates actively in international and European academic
networks and frequently hosts visits by academics and experts from other countries

Expansive research is carried out within the Department across a range of research areas and within a range of research centres.
Postgraduates integrate into our research culture through Departmental research seminars and postgraduate conferences

Over the years a large number of well-known legal academics have taught in Aberystwyth Law School

Study nearby to the National Library of Wales, one of five UK copyright libraries.

Benefit from a mature and well-stocked library for Law and Criminology (Thomas Parry Library) and from generous information technology provision

Aberystwyth University is a top 50 university for research power and intensity – REF 2014

Course content

On this course you have the flexibility to choose from a comprehensive and wide range of optional modules, allowing you to tailor your study to your needs and interests. Whichever modules you take, you will be given a thorough grounding in legal theory and practice to make you ready for the rigorous demands of the modern legal workplace. This study of legal theory is then always balanced with the investigation of an array of fascinating case studies to illuminate your study and put you in touch with an authentic experience of legal cases.

An important part of the course is the writing of a detailed dissertation within a specialism of your choice. Previous LLM students at Aberystwyth have found this opportunity to be invaluable in establishing a successful career.

Core modules:

Dissertation

Optional modules:

Definitional Elements of Substantive International Crimes
Foundations of Public International Law
General Principles of International Criminal Liability and Defences
Human Rights in the Information Age
Institutions of International Criminal Law
International Business, Environment & Human Rights
International Humanitarian Law
Introduction to International Human Rights Law
Mental Health and Human Rights
Migration and Asylum Law
Sources of International Criminal Law
Study Skills
Subsistence and Welfare Rights
The Philosophy of Human Rights Protection
The Sociology of Human Rights Violations

Assessment

Assessment takes the form of coursework essays (120 credits). Each student will complete then a master’s dissertation (60 credits) which deals with an area of chosen study.

Skills

On this course you will gain a wealth of skills vital for success in legal and more general employment. You will:

• study the cutting-edge developments of many areas of law
• develop a critical appreciation of legal responses to urgent contemporary issues
• master a range of legal methodologies
• learn to quickly assemble, assimilate and interpret a wealth of legal information from a fascinating array of fields
• learn how to deploy your knowledge to assert your expertise and build a winning argument based on your own rigorous research and analysis
• develop your abilities in structuring and communicating complex ideas efficiently
• develop your planning, analysis, presentation, project management and professional independence
• enhance your problem solving and creative thinking skills
• devise and sustain a self-initiated programme of study
• develop study and research skills
• work effectively with others

Careers

This course will be particularly attractive to those seeking careers in transnational corporations, specialist online trading, corporate lobby groups, international law firms, technology companies and a range of governmental and non-governmental organisations.

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