One of the main reasons to study a humanitarian action masters is to learn how to effectively respond to and manage crises. Through coursework, you will gain an understanding of the causes of human suffering and displacement, as well as the principles and practices of humanitarian aid. You will also have the opportunity to learn about the latest technologies and approaches in emergency response.
In addition, a humanitarian action masters degree will provide you with the skills and knowledge necessary to lead and coordinate relief efforts in the event of a major disaster. As a result, you will be better prepared to handle future emergencies and play a vital role in helping those in need.
If you are interested in working in the field of humanitarian aid, then a masters degree in humanitarian action is an excellent way to start your career. With the right training, you can make a real difference in the lives of those affected by natural disasters and other crisis situations.
Here are a variety of excellent master degrees for your consideration.
LL.M. International Criminal and Humanitarian Law
The University of Oslo offers an advanced law degree in International Criminal and Humanitarian Law. This 15-month, full-time, on-campus program provides students with an in-depth study of both practical skills and theory in these interrelated legal fields. Students take 2 semesters of courses and 1 semester of a Master’s thesis course to complete the program.
Tuition is free for all students, but EU students are encouraged to have a minimum of NOK 11,500/month to cover expenses, and international students are required to find documentation that they have NOK 116,369 to cover their stay. No financial assistance is available. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent. Students who graduate from this program will be well-equipped to work in international criminal courts and law organizations, as well as peace-building and development organizations dealing with humanitarian issues. They can pursue careers with international organizations, nonprofits, academic and research institutions, and more.
LL.M. International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights
The University of Geneva, in partnership with the Geneva Academy of International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights, offers an advanced law degree in International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights. This 1-year, full-time, on-campus program aims to help students gain expertise in international humanitarian law, especially relating to war crimes and genocide. Students will gain practical skills and theory through various courses, as well as a thesis paper, a study trip, and various first-hand opportunities to gain professional experience.
Tuition for all students is 18,000 Swiss Francs. Full and partial scholarships are available to cover tuition and living expenses. Graduates of this program are prepared to pursue careers in humanitarian law and international law with international organizations, NGOs, international courts, government agencies, and research/academic institutions.
LL.M. International Human Rights and Humanitarian Law
The European University Viadrina Frankfurt (Oder) offers an advanced law degree in International Human Rights and Humanitarian Law. This 18-month, full-time program offers a mix of on-campus and online courses designed to teach students practical skills and theory relating to international humanitarian issues such as the protection of human rights and laws about war crimes and violence. In addition to several courses, students also must complete a master’s thesis and an internship to finish the degree program.
Tuition fees are € 5.350/year. The university does not have any internal scholarships and encourages students to find funding and scholarships from outside sources. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in law and submit proof of the degree. They also must have at least one year of work experience unless an exemption is made. This program prepares its graduates for careers with government agencies, NGOs, military organizations, international organizations, or private firms working with human rights and humanitarian issues.
LL.M. Human Rights and Humanitarian Law
Aberystwyth University offers an advanced law degree in Human Rights and Humanitarian Law. This is an online program, which takes 2 to 5 years to complete. Courses and program structure are flexible. Students are encouraged to attend an annual study school program in April of each year to engage in lectures, seminars, and discussions with professors and other students. Program participants will learn about a variety of policies and law relating to humanitarian issues and complete a dissertation.
Full-time tuition fees are £6,280/year for UK/EU students and £14,500/year for international students. Students can use the scholarship and funding calculator to determine which scholarships they may be eligible to apply for. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in law or a related field. This program gives students the flexibility to gain professional experience while they are taking courses. Students will be prepared to pursue careers in government agencies, NGOs, advocacy organizations, businesses, research institutes, international organizations, and law firms.
LL.M. International Humanitarian Law
The University of Essex offers an advanced law degree in International Humanitarian Law. This 1-year, full-time, on-campus program seeks to address the legal side of a variety of humanitarian issues such as migration, conflict, terrorism, and more through both theory and practical skills. Students must complete courses, as well as a dissertation, and are offered additional opportunities to work on projects through the Human Rights Centre and various research and practical experience clinics.
Tuition costs are £7,560/year for UK/EU students and £16,225/year for international students. A variety of scholarships are available for students, with a full list and a scholarship-finder available through the university website. Graduates have pursued careers with international/intergovernmental organizations, government agencies, businesses and financial institutions, NGOs, and various law firms and courts.
LL.M. Peace Operations, Humanitarian Law and Conflict
The National University of Ireland, Galway offers an advanced law degree in Peace Operations, Humanitarian Law and Conflict. This on-campus program can be attended full-time or part-time. This program teaches students about policies and international law relating to peacekeeping and conflict studies. Students must complete a dissertation in addition to their courses.
Tuition costs are €6,250/year for UK/EU students and €14,750/year for international students. Some grants and scholarships are available to students. Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in international peacekeeping operations and international law with international/intergovernmental organizations, NGOs, government agencies, and more.