Humanitarian Practice The University of Manchester

Overview

Embarking on the MSc in Humanitarian Practice at The University of Manchester provides an exceptional opportunity to engage with a world-renowned institution, recognised among the top 50 globally in Arts and Humanities by Times Higher Education in 2025. This course is tailored for professionals currently involved in humanitarian efforts or those possessing a minimum of six months of relevant experience. It is delivered in collaboration with esteemed partners such as Médecins Sans Frontières and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, ensuring a robust educational foundation.

The programme adopts a blended learning approach, allowing students to balance their studies with ongoing professional commitments. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for individuals working in challenging environments, as it enables them to apply theoretical knowledge directly to their practice. The curriculum encourages critical reflection on personal experiences within the humanitarian sector, fostering an environment where students can develop the necessary academic background to inform their decision-making processes.

Students will cultivate leadership competencies essential for advancing into management or coordination roles within humanitarian organisations. The course structure includes a two-week intensive teaching period each year, which can be attended either online or in person in Manchester or Liverpool. This immersive experience not only enhances learning but also facilitates networking with peers and academics from diverse backgrounds.

Why Humanitarian Practice at The University of Manchester?

The University of Manchester stands out for its innovative approach to humanitarian education. The partnership with Médecins Sans Frontières and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine enriches the learning experience by integrating practical insights with academic rigor. This collaborative framework allows students to engage with experts from various fields, including public health, development studies, and humanitarian medicine. The programme's commitment to interdisciplinary learning equips graduates with a well-rounded perspective, essential for addressing the complexities of humanitarian challenges.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

For the academic year commencing September 2026, the tuition fees are structured as follows:

• International Students: £28,500 per annum
• National Students: £14,000 per annum

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The MSc in Humanitarian Practice comprises a mix of core and optional modules designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the field. Students are required to complete 180 academic credits, which includes:

• Four core units (60 credits)
• A selection of optional units (60 credits)
• A dissertation (60 credits)

Core modules include:

• Critical Approaches to Evidence
• Research Into Practice
• Critical Approaches to Management of Humanitarian Operations
• Cash and Market Based Programming in Crisis Settings

Students may also select from a range of optional modules that further enhance their knowledge and skills in specific areas of interest.

Careers with Humanitarian Practice

Graduates of the MSc in Humanitarian Practice can pursue diverse career paths within the humanitarian sector. Many alumni have secured positions with leading organisations such as Médecins Sans Frontières, where they contribute to critical humanitarian initiatives. Potential roles include project management, policy development, and operational coordination, allowing graduates to make significant impacts in various humanitarian contexts. The University of Manchester's dedicated Careers Service provides ongoing support to students and alumni, enhancing their employability and professional development.