The University of San Diego’s’ Master of Science in Humanitarian Action is a 20-month career-building, advanced degree program within the Joan B. Kroc School of Peace Studies. This program is designed for both recent graduates and experienced professionals to help students become critical thinkers and humanitarian leaders who will help solve some of the world’s biggest challenges.

This innovative program blends conflict analysis, transformation and social innovation with peacebuilding practices and intentionally dissolves the barriers between international humanitarian and domestic emergency management. Students are given the opportunity to learn from executive-level directors, experienced consultants and regional coordinators who work directly for humanitarian-related organizations. Intended for professionals and leaders with experience or background in humanitarian aid, international affairs, political science, social justice and other related areas, this program is ideal for military personnel, veterans and volunteers looking to pursue a career in humanitarian or disaster relief. Candidates with little to no background in humanitarian or disaster relief, but who have an interest in pursuing a career in these impactful areas are also accepted.

The Master of Science in Humanitarian Action admits candidates throughout the year to begin their degree in either the Spring, Summer or Fall. Students will take two courses during each 14-week semester, focusing on one 7-week course at a time. The course curriculum includes topics such as assessing humanitarian needs, aid delivery, management and logistics, leadership, effective communication, and more. The program culminates in a capstone simulation exercise where students will tackle a complex humanitarian emergency demonstrating their learned skills and knowledge to design, implement and evaluate creative solutions in a real-time scenario.

For more information about the program and curriculum visit the course page here.