University College Dublin

Overview

The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree in Humanitarian Action is a comprehensive two-year programme that integrates academic knowledge with practical experience, catering to individuals aspiring to make a difference in crisis response and humanitarian policy. This multi-university initiative allows students to engage with partner institutions, fostering a robust professional network within the humanitarian sector.

Why this programme stands out

Offered through a consortium of NOHA partner universities, this degree enhances your comprehension of humanitarian principles, governance, and operational practices. It also emphasizes skill development through hands-on placements and a culminating master project.

• Award: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree (MSc)
• Duration: 2 years (4 semesters), full-time
• Delivery: Multi-university programme with study periods at partner institutions
• Credits: Typically 120 ECTS for the full MSc (programme structure may vary by edition)
• Language of instruction: English in all universities except Aix-Marseilles (French in Semesters 1 & 2) and Deusto (language requirements may apply)
• Scholarships: Erasmus Mundus scholarships may be available for eligible applicants
• Application route: Joint application procedure via the NOHA+ consortium

What you'll study

The MSc programme is structured across four semesters, focusing on core learning, thematic specialisation, and applied experience, culminating in a thesis based on your selected topic.

• Intensive Programme (Semester 1): Foundational learning and orientation to humanitarian action, methods, and academic expectations.
• Humanitarian Disciplines (Semester 1): Core subjects including humanitarian law, governance, social and political analysis, and public health perspectives.
• Thematic Specialisation (Semester 2): In-depth exploration of thematic areas related to contemporary humanitarian challenges.
• Individual Specialisation (Semester 3): Tailored pathway to align with your interests and future career goals.
• Master Project & Thesis (Semester 4): Research and writing culminating in the final thesis.

Typical curriculum themes include:

• Legal Dimensions of Humanitarian Action
• World Politics and Humanitarian Action
• Social Anthropology
• Public Health
• Management in Humanitarian Action
• Work Placement in Humanitarian Action
• Minor Thesis / Master Project (final thesis in Semester 4)

Study periods and practical learning:

The programme features orientation periods at various partner universities along with a work placement component. Potential partner institutions may include Aix-Marseilles, Deusto, Groningen, Bochum, Uppsala, Warsaw, and Malta.

Entry requirements

There are no GRE/GMAT requirements specified for this programme. Candidates should ensure they meet any specific academic qualifications outlined by the partner institutions.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme are well-equipped to pursue diverse career opportunities within the humanitarian sector, including roles in crisis response, policy development, and program management. The extensive network built during the course enhances employment prospects in international organizations, non-profits, and governmental agencies focused on humanitarian efforts.