Master of Science in Humanitarian Studies
Become a leader in humanitarian affairs
Every year, millions of people around the world are in need of humanitarian assistance and protection. While conflict remains the main driver of humanitarian needs, increasingly conflict overlaps with climate disasters, infectious diseases and poverty often affecting the same communities. Built on social justice values and humanitarian principles, the Master of Science in Humanitarian Studies is a 30-credit interdisciplinary program and equips students with the knowledge and skills to respond and address the causes and consequences of humanitarian crises.
A Master of Science in Humanitarian Studies (MSHS) from Fordham University’s Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS) will educate you to make meaningful contributions to humanitarian operations. Start your application today!
At a Glance
- Program: Master of Science in Humanitarian Studies (MSHS)
- Credit Hours: 30 credits
- Duration: 1.5-2 years (full-time or part-time)
- Location: In-person classes at both Lincoln Center campus and Rose Hill campus. Note: MSHS students may have some online elective classes.
- Applications Due: Applications will be considered on a rolling basis
- Cost per Credit: $1,810
- *Estimated Tuition Cost: $54,300
- Scholarship Awards Available
- No GMAT/GRE Required
- Accelerated Master's program available for current Fordham Undergraduate students
*The Estimated Tuition Cost does not include fees and possible other expenses. Please visit the GSAS Tuition and Fees page for other fees and the GSAS Cost of Attendance page for other expenses.
Program Facts
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Join the only NYC-based humanitarian studies master's program today
Built on social justice values and humanitarian principles, this 30-credit interdisciplinary program is uniquely focused on the theory and practice of humanitarian relief, and is centered on equipping you with a wide range of skills and competencies necessary for a dynamic career in the sector.
- Engage deeply in contemporary humanitarian issues, including forced migration, human rights in conflict, urban disasters, and education in crises
- Complete the MSHS in 1.5 years (3 semesters + 1 summer) or 2 years (4 semesters)
- Attend evening classes as a working professional or to accommodate internship schedules at the Rose Hill Campus in the Bronx or the Lincoln Center Campus in Manhattan
- Develop essential field and leadership skills through unique experiential learning opportunities in New York and overseas
- Enrich your coursework with immersive internship, independent study and thesis research opportunities
- Learn policy making and project management skills and techniques from faculty with both academic and field experience in humanitarian relief and assistance
- Cultivate an extensive network of high-qualified graduate program alumni and practitioners through the Institute of International Humanitarian Affairs
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Our New York City location enables students to pursue internships and exposure to various United Nations agencies, diplomatic missions, international nongovernmental organizations, and prominent research and think-tank institutions. You will complete an internship tutorial that matches your concentration area, either during a summer, fall, or spring semester.
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Masters’ Thesis
You will complete a Master’s Thesis under the supervision of a faculty member on a topic related to your concentration area.
F.A.Q.
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The MSHS program is designed for individuals intending to build careers in humanitarian action. Below are areas where our alumni have built successful careers:
- development
- finance
- policy coordination
- advocacy
- strategic communications
- program/project management
- logistics
- and many other areas of expertise
MSHS graduates will be exceptionally-equipped to contribute their skillsets and knowledge to humanitarian nongovernmental or intergovernmental organizations, government agencies, foundations, think tanks, or within the private sector.
During the program and following graduation, MSHS students have access to Fordham University’s Career Services, along with direct advising from the IIHA Executive Director, Helen Hamlyn Senior Fellow and Faculty. The MSHS is a program in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS).
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The MSHS program is designed for individuals intending to build careers in humanitarian affairs in non-profit or intergovernmental organizations, government agencies, foundations, think tanks, or within the private sector across all streams of work.
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You can apply online by clicking "Apply Now" on the left-hand side of this page. The MSHS program requirements are as follows:
- Official degree transcripts
- Resume/CV
- Official Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Scores
- Statement of intent
- Supplemental Essay (Optional)
- Writing sample (5 – 20 pages, submitted electronically)
- Three letters of recommendation
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The MSHS program has rolling applications.
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Continue your service to those in desperate need nationally and/or internationally. Our humanitarian studies degrees equip student veterans with the knowledge, theory, and skills to transition into a humanitarian affairs career. Receive support from the IIHA and the OMVS throughout your academic journey from start to finish. We are here for you!
- Learn more about the Office of Military and Veterans' Services on their Fordham page. Learn more.
- Apply for open scholarships from SVA's partners. These are distributed to top student veterans in a manner that doesn't interfere with the GI Bill® or other financial aid and total over $100,000 annually. Learn more.
- Read about Fordham University's Yellow Ribbon Agreement. Learn more.
For more information on admissions, financial aid and application deadlines please visit the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences website.
For more information on courses, registration, and the program, email [email protected] or make a virtual or in-person appointment calendly.com/rmukwana-