Humanitarian Action (Online)

Entry requirements

We will consider all applications with 2:2 (or international equivalent) or higher. In addition to degree classification we take into account other elements of the application such as supporting statement. References are optional, but can help build a stronger application if you fall below the 2:2 requirement or have non-traditional qualifications.

Months of entry

January, September

Course content

The MSc Humanitarian Action (Online) is a critical, globally-oriented study of humanitarian history, politics and practice.

Designed for impact in complex crisis and development settings, it encourages you to question how, where and why aid is delivered, and to analyse its political and military entanglements. A distinctive focus on South-South cooperation and community-led critiques challenges and reshapes conventional humanitarian paradigms.

Graduates will develop decolonial, interdisciplinary insight, analytical rigour, cultural humility, and the ethical capacity to engage thoughtfully in humanitarianism, development and global justice worldwide.

Studying at SOAS

We're ranked 2nd in the world for Development Studies and 2nd in the world for Academic Reputation in Development Studies (QS World University Rankings 2026). Gain a global perspective unlike any other from a world-renowned university based in the heart of London.

Study Tours

All postgraduate students can take part in our Study Tours and explore the world. Destinations include New Delhi, Lahore, Seoul, Luang Prabang, Almaty, Bishkek, Kigali, Johannesburg, and Doha. For more information, see our Study Tours page.

Structure

You can study this programme either as an accelerated two-year part-time degree or a three-year part-time degree.

Two-year route (accelerated):

Year 1: 90 credits (three modules)

Year 2: 90 credits (three modules, including either a capstone dissertation or project)

Three-year route:

Year 1: 60 credits (two modules)

Year 2: 60 credits (two modules)

Year 3: 60 credits (two modules, including either a capstone dissertation or project)

Both routes are designed to build a strong foundation in your first year, followed by greater flexibility in later years, including optional modules and the opportunity to complete a capstone dissertation or applied project.

Information for international students

For details, including English language requirements, please see SOAS website

Fees and funding

For details of postgraduate fees, please see SOAS website

Assessment