MSc International Humanitarian Affairs

Collaborate with affected populations as equal partners
Analytical and critical skills to engage at policy and practice levels
Creativity and imagination to respond to complex and challenging emergencies
The ability to facilitate positive change and response improvement
The ability to undertake reflective independent learning
The ability to research, source and examine information thoroughly
The capacity to critically analyse evidence and construct coherent arguments
Intellectual independence and autonomy
A flexible and open-minded approach to work.

Our students come from a wide variety of backgrounds and many are working full-time jobs in real-time humanitarian responses where they can take full advantage of the flexible nature of the course.

The learning and teaching on the course enables you to build upon the practical knowledge gained from your professional experience with cutting-edge theory and an insight into humanitarian policy making. Successful completion of the course leads to a globally recognised qualification.

Our graduates have gone on to leading roles in governmental and non-governmental organisations, the United Nations and charities, working in areas affected by disasters and conflicts around the world. Their work spans the humanitarian and development spectrum, from camp management to advising the UN and governments on humanitarian responses. Many go on to further study at York and other leading universities.

Career opportunities
Central government roles
Local government roles
United Nations roles eg in the High Commission for Refugees, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, the Mission in Sudan and the World Health Organisation
International NGOs eg Mercy Corps, Care International, Aga Khan Development Network, Save the Children and Shelter Box
International Donor Agencies eg DFiD (UK) and USAID
University roles

Undergraduate degree
2:1 or equivalent in an appropriate subject. We are willing to consider applications from those who do not have the appropriate qualifications but have suitable humanitarian and development experience through working with the United Nations, international humanitarian and development organisations, government authorities, community-based groups or local charities.