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Institute of Epidemiology & Health Care

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New programme aims to reduce impacts of humanitarian crises

24 February 2023

Applications have opened for a new UCL MSc in Humanitarian Policy and Practice, which will give students the tools to improve global health outcomes.

Syrian refugee camp in the outskirts of Athens.

Wars, disasters, pandemics and the growing impacts of climate change demand new understanding and new ways of working. In response to this global priority, UCL has launched a new MSc programme.

The MSc in Humanitarian Policy and Practice will equip students with the practical skills to work in the humanitarian field. By gaining a solid academic background through eight core modules drawing on a variety of disciplines, students will be better able to understand, analyse - and when appropriate, challenge -issues in complex humanitarian situations.

Learning from people on the ground

This programme offers the chance to reflect on policies and practices in the past and present that inform today’s crises responses. Methods of preventing and responding to humanitarian emergencies will be taught by a range of different experts. These experts include specialist academics, people with practical experience from the field, people affected by crisis themselves, advocates and activists. By bringing together a range of people, students will have the chance to consider the full spectrum of perspectives.

The story behind the news

Students will be encouraged to delve into the full story behind news reports. They will explore what’s being done to better support those affected by disasters and develop an understanding around the conflicts, emergencies, disasters and catastrophes. 

Preparing graduates for humanitarian careers

The MSc presents a cross-disciplinary perspective along with a solid grounding in the methodologies needed to interpret conflicting information and make appropriate judgements in difficult circumstances. These decisions will consider a range of factors, including geo-political environment, existing health situations, as well as a whole variety of other factors. 

Programme Director Dr Maria Kett (Institute of Epidemiology & Health Care), said “The launch of the new MSc demonstrates that UCL is committed to producing graduates who can make a real difference in the world. I look forward to welcoming our first cohort of students, who I’m sure will go on to become the next generation of experts.”

The deadline for applications for the MSc is 30 June 2023.

Upcoming event: Ukraine 1 year on– lessons learnt on how to respond to humanitarian crises

24 February sadly marked one year since the war in Ukraine started. Come and hear from humanitarian experts as they reflect on the past year, discuss the practical dilemmas humanitarians face today, and why different skill sets and disciplines are essential for responding and preventing humanitarian emergencies. You’ll also hear about a new Humanitarian Policy and Practice MSc programme that will help you get these skills.

Book now - 6 March 2023, 2:30 pm–3:30 pm


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