MSc Humanitarianism, Aid & Conflict
London
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MSc Humanitarianism, Aid & Conflict at SOAS University of London offers an in-depth exploration of contemporary humanitarian aid, its interactions with conflict and development, and emerging trends in the field. Building on SOAS's expertise in violence, conflict, and global development, the program provides analytical training to understand the complexities of humanitarian responses in diverse contexts.
Curriculum: The curriculum is designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge of the history and architecture of humanitarian aid. It covers key actors involved in aid, theoretical and policy debates on global responses to conflict, natural disasters, and complex emergencies. The program also addresses critiques of humanitarian aid and highlights innovations and challenges, particularly from the Global South.
Research Focus: SOAS's Department of Development Studies, renowned for its research on violence, conflict, and global development, drives the program's research agenda. Students engage with critical analyses of humanitarian aid's political and logistical challenges, exploring diverse critiques and emerging innovations in the field.
Industry Engagement: The program emphasizes practical experience, offering opportunities for work placements and internships with organizations such as the International Organisation for Migration and various international NGOs. These engagements allow students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, enhancing their professional readiness.
Global Perspective: SOAS University of London is renowned for its focus on Asia, Africa, and the Near and Middle East. The program incorporates global perspectives, encouraging students to think critically about humanitarian issues across different cultural and geopolitical contexts.
Location
London
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 25320
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 95.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 65.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
SOAS University of London offers a variety of scholarships to support international students pursuing postgraduate studies. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence and provide financial assistance to students from diverse backgrounds.
SOAS International Scholarships: SOAS University of London offers a range of scholarships specifically designed for international students. These scholarships aim to support students from various regions and backgrounds who are looking to study at the institution. Scholarships vary by program and are awarded based on merit or financial need.
Postgraduate Scholarships: SOAS provides several postgraduate scholarships for international students, including the prestigious SOAS Postgraduate Scholarships. These are awarded based on academic merit and cover partial or full tuition fees. Some specific awards are dedicated to students from particular regions, such as Africa, Asia, or the Middle East, to encourage diverse participation in postgraduate programs.
Regional Scholarships: SOAS University of London provides scholarships for students from specific regions, including the Commonwealth, Africa, Asia, and Latin America. These scholarships are aimed at increasing access to higher education for students from regions with traditionally lower rates of study abroad participation. Some of the notable scholarships include the SOAS Africa Scholarship and the SOAS South Asia Scholarship.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Certain scholarships are tailored to international students from specific countries. For example, SOAS offers scholarships for students from countries like India, China, Nigeria, and others. These scholarships typically cover a portion of tuition fees and may also include additional benefits like travel allowances or accommodation assistance.
External Funding Opportunities: In addition to the internal scholarships offered by SOAS, international students are encouraged to explore external funding sources. The UK government, private organizations, and international agencies often provide scholarships and grants for students pursuing studies in the UK. SOAS offers guidance and resources to help students find external funding options and apply for them.
SOAS Excellence Awards: The SOAS Excellence Awards are designed to support exceptionally talented international students. These awards are often given to those students who have demonstrated outstanding academic potential in their field of study. The Excellence Awards provide significant financial assistance and are available to both undergraduate and postgraduate students.
The MSc Humanitarianism, Aid & Conflict program at SOAS University of London is meticulously designed to equip students with a profound understanding of the complexities surrounding humanitarian aid, its interplay with conflict, and the broader spectrum of global development challenges. Graduates of this program are well-prepared to embark on diverse and impactful career paths across various sectors.
International Non-Governmental Organizations (INGOs): Graduates often find fulfilling roles within INGOs such as Oxfam, Save the Children, and Médecins Sans Frontières. Positions may include humanitarian program officers, emergency response coordinators, and advocacy specialists, where professionals design and implement aid strategies, coordinate relief efforts, and advocate for policy changes to support affected populations.
United Nations Agencies: The United Nations offers a plethora of opportunities for those interested in global humanitarian efforts. Graduates can pursue positions like UNHCR protection officers, WFP logistics coordinators, or UNDP program managers, roles that involve developing and overseeing initiatives aimed at alleviating human suffering and promoting sustainable development.
Governmental and Intergovernmental Bodies: National governments and intergovernmental organizations such as the European Union seek experts in humanitarian policy and crisis management. Roles include policy advisors, disaster response analysts, and international relations specialists, focusing on crafting policies and coordinating international aid efforts.
Research Institutions and Think Tanks: For those inclined towards research, institutions like the Overseas Development Institute (ODI) and the Humanitarian Policy Group offer positions as research fellows or policy analysts. These roles involve conducting in-depth studies on humanitarian issues, analyzing data, and providing evidence-based recommendations to inform policy and practice.
Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding Organizations: Graduates can engage with organizations dedicated to conflict resolution and peacebuilding, such as the International Center for Transitional Justice. Positions like conflict resolution specialists, peacebuilding advisors, and mediation experts focus on facilitating dialogue, promoting reconciliation, and supporting post-conflict recovery efforts.
Academic and Educational Roles: For those passionate about academia, opportunities exist in teaching and research within universities and educational institutions. Roles include lecturers, researchers, and curriculum developers, contributing to the academic discourse on humanitarianism and conflict studies.
Private Sector Consulting: Consulting firms specializing in risk assessment, crisis management, and corporate social responsibility seek professionals with expertise in humanitarian issues. Graduates can work as consultants, advising corporations on navigating complex environments and implementing socially responsible initiatives.
Media and Communications: Graduates with a flair for storytelling can venture into journalism and media, reporting on humanitarian crises, conflict zones, and development challenges. Roles include reporters, documentary filmmakers, and communications officers, aiming to raise awareness and drive public engagement on critical issues.
Human Rights Advocacy: Organizations such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch offer roles for graduates to advocate for the protection and promotion of human rights globally. Positions may involve campaigning, legal advocacy, and grassroots mobilization to address human rights violations.
Disaster Risk Reduction and Emergency Management: Specialized agencies and NGOs focus on disaster preparedness and risk reduction. Graduates can assume roles like disaster risk analysts, emergency planners, and resilience coordinators, working to mitigate the impacts of natural and man-made disasters.
