Course summary

This unique programme provides students with analytical training and an in-depth understanding of the challenges of contemporary humanitarian aid, its interaction with conflict and development and new directions in the field. Throughout the programme students will develop wide-ranging knowledge of the field and the tools to critically engage with the pressing questions of power dynamics, politics, accountability, intersectionality, security and access that are facing humanitarian organisations, academics and local communities today. The programme presents students with comprehensive engages with theoretical, conceptual and policy debates relating to the challenges of the global responses to conflict, disasters and emergencies, and the diverse range of critiques that have been made of it. Students will gain knowledge of the history of humanitarianism in different contexts around the world, the architecture of humanitarian aid, the range of key actors at the local, regional and international levels, emerging innovations, context-specific challenges and agendas from the Global South. The programme links theory to practice through engagement with guest speakers and a wide range of materials, including academic literature, case studies, archival documents, policy reports, popular culture and media. Each cohort will acquire critical thinking and analysis skills, data gathering, research and communication and presentation skills, and guidance on undertaking internships. Students will interact with a wide range of actors including academics, policymakers, practitioners and civil society activists.