Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

This programme covers the core concepts, methods and tools used in humanitarian response and peacebuilding. Teaching blends conceptual modules with applied skills development and a substantial independent research or practice project.

• Humanitarian Principles and Frameworks – history and ethics of humanitarian action, legal frameworks, rights-based approaches.
• Conflict Analysis and Peacebuilding – drivers of conflict, peace processes, mediation, reconciliation and transitional justice.
• Protection, Displacement and Durable Solutions – protection mainstreaming, refugee and IDP responses, shelter and settlements, durable solutions.
• Emergency Response and Humanitarian Logistics – needs assessment, coordination (cluster approach), supply chain and logistics in crisis settings.
• Programme Design, Monitoring and Evaluation – logical frameworks, results-based management, indicators, baselines and impact assessment in fragile contexts.
• Research Methods for Conflict and Humanitarian Studies – qualitative and quantitative methods, ethical research in insecure environments, participatory approaches.
• Applied Practicum or Dissertation – a substantial piece of independent research or a practice-based capstone addressing a real-world humanitarian or peacebuilding issue.

Teaching methods typically include seminars, case studies, simulation exercises, guest lectures from practitioners, and opportunities for short placements or work-based learning where possible.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a good honours degree in a relevant discipline such as international development, politics, law, social sciences, or another related subject. Applicants with significant professional experience in humanitarian, development or peacebuilding roles may be considered even if their academic background is different. All applicants for whom English is not a first language will be expected to show evidence of proficiency in English through a recognised qualification or other approved means. Candidates may be asked to provide a personal statement and references demonstrating their suitability and motivation for the programme.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of professional roles across humanitarian and peacebuilding sectors. Typical career paths include:

• Programme officer, field coordinator or technical specialist with international NGOs and humanitarian agencies.
• Positions in the UN system or other multilateral organisations working on emergency response, protection, or recovery.
• Government and donor agencies engaged in humanitarian assistance, conflict prevention and post-conflict reconstruction.
• Research, policy and advocacy roles in think-tanks, charities and civil society organisations focused on conflict, displacement and human rights.
• Consultancy roles in monitoring and evaluation, needs assessment, capacity building and programme design for fragile and conflict-affected contexts.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes offers applied, interdisciplinary teaching that draws on staff with academic and practitioner experience in humanitarian and conflict settings. The university is well placed to combine academic rigour with practical skills through simulation work, practitioner guest lectures and links with organisations operating in the humanitarian sector. Students benefit from a supportive postgraduate environment, dedicated career services and opportunities to develop professional networks that help bridge study and operational practice.