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124 credits is the minimum.
Yes. Please learn more here
The Humanitarian Studies Program provides students with the technical knowledge and analytical tools necessary to examine and critique a wide range of humanitarian activities, including food aid, water and sanitation programming, medical assistance, and refugee settlements. The combination of rigorous interdisciplinary coursework and experiential learning opportunities prepare students for a host of graduate studies and careers, such as disaster relief, global public health, human rights, and international law. Additionally, the IIHA’s New York City location provides students with exposure to various United Nations Agencies, the US Mission to the UN, international NGOs, and prominent research institutions.
Accommodation, transportation to/from classes, notebook, pen/pencil, budget for required textbooks, and backpack. Please visit https://www.fordham.edu/student-life/living-on-campus/ for Fordham University’s on-campus living recommendations.
Yes. HUST students can apply for the MSHS Accelerated Master’s program during their junior year and upon acceptance, begin Master’s level classes during their senior year. This program follows a 4+1 year trajectory
Early decision is November 1st and Regular decision is January 3rd
The program is in person at Fordham University’s Lincoln Center campus and Rose Hill campus. For easy and reliable transportation between campuses MSHS students have the option of taking the Ram Van for a small fee.
30 credits are required to successfully complete this program. These credits are constituted by five core courses, four elective courses to be taken across three thematic areas (Human Rights, Communities and Capacity Building and Women Studies and Literary Studies, an internship or independent study, and a master’s thesis.
Limited scholarships are available and you can find more information here.
The MSHS program is designed for individuals intending to build careers in humanitarian action 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 find courses being offered on the academic bulletin found here
You can apply online. The MSHS program requirements are as follows:
International applicants whose native language is not English are required to complete and submit to GSAS prior to matriculation their official scores from one of the following accepted English language competency exams: Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) from: TOEFL iBT (including the Home Edition and Paper Edition and TOEFL Essentials
The MSHS program has rolling applications
The Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS) has a helpful guide whether you’re living near Lincoln Center or Rose Hill. Visit their website to learn more.
Yes. MSHS students can take the IDHA for credit toward their degree as long as it does not coincide with any other courses. The IDHA requires students to travel to Amman or Pretoria for four weeks. Please speak with Ruth Mukwana at rmukwana@fordham.edu if you are interested or have any questions.
The program is fully online including the capstone course making it globally accessible for all humanitarian practitioners.
The total cost for the 30-credit MIHA program is $19,500.
Individual courses are available to take as stand-alone courses for 0 credits for $1,076 or for 3 credits for $1,950.
30 credits are required to successfully complete this program. These credits are constituted by ten-eleven courses to be taken across three Advanced Certificates (Advanced Certificate in Humanitarian Operations, Advanced Certificate in Disaster Management, and Advanced Certificate in Humanitarian Leadership and a master’s capstone course).
There are no scholarships available for the MIHA program. To ensure global accessibility for international practitioners, the tuition has already been heavily discounted and priced competitively compared to traditional on-campus graduate degrees.
For professionals who do not require a formal master’s degree, courses can be taken on a non-credit basis (0 credits) to earn a Certificate of Completion, which offers an 81% savings compared to the standard for-credit rate.
The MIHA program is designed for career practitioners working in middle management of humanitarian organizations or those intending to enter the profession at this level. This course is completely online so international practitioners can join from where they are. Five or more years of relevant experience is recommended to apply.
WiFi access and a working laptop or desktop
You can find courses being offered on the MIHA webpage here
You can apply online. The MIHA program requirements are as follows:
International applicants whose native language is not English are required to complete and submit to GSAS prior to matriculation their official scores from one of the following accepted English language competency exams: Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) from: TOEFL iBT (including the Home Edition and Paper Edition and TOEFL Essentials
The MIHA program has rolling applications. Please keep in mind the academic school year beginsduring the last week in August.
The Advanced Certificate in Humanitarian Operations introduces the core principles of humanitarian action, including its legal foundations and the complex challenges surrounding forced migration. Designed for international and local responders, the certificate prepares professionals to operate effectively in humanitarian contexts, applying their existing expertise and experience in field-based operational roles.
The Advanced Certificate in Disaster Management develops the knowledge and skills needed to move beyond frontline operations and into leadership roles. Students learn to lead teams and gain insight into specialized areas such as humanitarian advocacy, accountability, and the psychosocial dimensions of disasters.
The Advanced Certificate in Humanitarian Leadership examines the political, financial, and strategic dimensions of humanitarian work, along with security risk management. Designed for experienced professionals, it prepares those moving into senior leadership roles in the field or at headquarters to navigate complex operational and organizational challenges.
Each certificate is focused on a key area of humanitarian action and can be taken individually or combined (with a capstone project) to earn the full master’s degree. The flexible approach is ideal for students who are working to alleviate poverty, promote justice, protect human rights, and safeguard the environment.
This program is entirely in person.
*If seeking academic credit, OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPTS ARE REQUIRED
*Fall, Spring, and Summer for-credit IDHAs are subject to university fees as listed on the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences website.
Certificate or *academic credit is available. Please email us at iiha@fordham.edu with your preference or include in your application.
*In order to qualify for academic credit, the participant must receive the IDHA, and must have already had the equivalent of a bachelor’s degree or better at the beginning of the IDHA. Candidates who are interested must complete an academic credit form and submit it together with copies of all transcripts from previous academic institutions.
There are limited scholarships available for this program. The IDHA prioritizes scholarship requests from regional students.
The International Diploma in Humanitarian Assistance (IDHA) is a professional qualification of competence for humanitarian workers destined for growth in national and international organizations. Being held in Pretoria and Bangkok, this course will emphasize localization in the South Africa and Southeast Asia Regions, preparing its graduates to create positive change as future leaders and managers of humanitarian response in the 21st century.
Admitted IDHA students are responsible for their own transportation to/from the site and are required to bring their own laptops, notebooks, and writing utensils
English Proficiency (not tested but expected), Resume/CV, Statement of intent, payment
Two weeks before the program begins, however, we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible as this program has limited seats available.
Asynchronous Online with encouraged live weekly sessions
5-6 hours including instruction, discussion, and reading
*This course is available for 3 credits (toward the MSHS) or certificate
*If the student selects the discounted certificate-based option you will receive a certificate of completion but NOT academic credit
Apply here and select “Humanitarian Training Courses”
Two weeks before the program begins
No, scholarships are not offered for this program. However, online humanitarian training courses are structured at a reduced online rate to keep it affordable for global practitioners. If you are budget-conscious and do not need academic credit toward a master’s degree, you can enroll in individual courses for 0 credits to earn a professional certificate, saving over 80% on tuition.
The course will also cover the dynamics of the Humanitarian Aid “Industry”, the importance of the cultural differences and global new developments. MHCE students should have a sincere interest in the changes that are taking place; a critical and open mind; and interests that go beyond the medical aspects of mental health.
Wi-Fi, computer access, and notebook, pen/pencil
Yes all the sessions will be recorded and can be found on Blackboard.
Online Synchronous I Wednesdays 5:30 pm – 7:20 pm ET
*This course is available for 3 credits (toward the MSHS) or certificate
*If the student selects the discounted certificate-based option you will receive a certificate of completion but NOT academic credit
Apply here and select “Humanitarian Training Courses”
Two weeks before the program begins
No, scholarships are not offered for this program. However, online humanitarian training courses are structured at a reduced online rate to keep it affordable for global practitioners. If you are budget-conscious and do not need academic credit toward a master’s degree, you can enroll in individual courses for 0 credits to earn a professional certificate, saving over 80% on tuition.
The MIHA program is designed for career practitioners working in middle management of humanitarian organizations or those intending to enter the profession at this level. This course is completely online so international practitioners can join from where they are. Five or more years of relevant experience is recommended to apply.
WiFi and a laptop or desktop are required to complete homework.
Online Asynchronous with optional weekly online meetings
1 1/2 hour of instruction/discussion and 2 hours of reading/preparation
*This course is available for 3 credits (toward the MSHS) or certificate
*If the student selects the discounted certificate-based option you will receive a certificate of completion but NOT academic credit
Apply here and select “Humanitarian Training Courses”
Two weeks before the program begins
No, scholarships are not offered for this program. However, online humanitarian training courses are structured at a reduced online rate to keep it affordable for global practitioners. If you are budget-conscious and do not need academic credit toward a master’s degree, you can enroll in individual courses for 0 credits to earn a professional certificate, saving over 80% on tuition.
This course is for the newcomer to humanitarian study and covers basic concepts and vocabulary, and introduces humanitarian institutions and principles. This course also provides the opportunity to apply these concepts to real world crises, with discussion of the tensions inherent.
Wi-Fi required, Tuesday evening virtual attendance required.
*This course is available for 3 credits (toward the MSHS or MIHA) or certificate
*If the student selects the discounted certificate-based option you will receive a certificate of completion but NOT academic credit
Apply here and select “Humanitarian Training Courses”
Two weeks before the program begins
No, scholarships are not offered for this program. However, online humanitarian training courses are structured at a reduced online rate to keep it affordable for global practitioners. If you are budget-conscious and do not need academic credit toward a master’s degree, you can enroll in individual courses for 0 credits to earn a professional certificate, saving over 80% on tuition.
This course is aimed at students with or without former experience humanitarian programs management. A significant portion of the course is dedicated to understanding financing in the humanitarian field, however, all calculations are remaining easy to understand mostly based on arithmetic formulas.
Wi-Fi, computer access, notebook, pen/pencil.
Synchronous Online
Approximately 2 hours’ reading and 2 hours of lecture per week
Thursday, 5:30pm -7:15 pm
*This course is available for 3 credits (toward the MSHS) or certificate
*If the student selects the discounted certificate-based option you will receive a certificate of completion but NOT academic credit
For credit please email iiha@fordham.edu.
For certificate: apply here and select “Humanitarian Training Courses”
Two weeks before the program begins
No, scholarships are not offered for this program. However, online humanitarian training courses are structured at a reduced online rate to keep it affordable for global practitioners. If you are budget-conscious and do not need academic credit toward a master’s degree, you can enroll in individual courses for 0 credits to earn a professional certificate, saving over 80% on tuition.
This course is aimed at students that will be introduced to the pressing issues and acute challenges of contemporary humanitarian response.
Wi-Fi, computer access, and notebook, pen/pencil. Sessions are synchronous and attendance is mandatory
Thursday evenings, 5:30-7:30 pm ET.
Yes. Only two absences are excused.
In person at Fordham University
*This course is available for credit or certificate
*If the student selects the discounted certificate-based option you will receive a certificate of completion but NOT academic credit
For credit please email iiha@fordham.edu.
For certificate: apply here and select “Humanitarian Training Courses”
Two weeks before the program begins
No, scholarships are not offered for this program. However, online humanitarian training courses are structured at a reduced online rate to keep it affordable for global practitioners. If you are budget-conscious and do not need academic credit toward a master’s degree, you can enroll in individual courses for 0 credits to earn a professional certificate, saving over 80% on tuition.
Students that will examine the impact of climate change on societies, cultures, and economies in the West African Sahel, which includes Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, and Nigeria.
Notebook, pen/pencil, computer access.
The Forced Migration Course is designed to be completely asynchronous so as to allow students from all time zones to participate. The Zoom sessions will be recorded and uploaded to Blackboard so as to be accessible to all students
*This course is available for 3 credits (toward the MSHS) or certificate
*If the student selects the discounted certificate-based option you will receive a certificate of completion but NOT academic credit
For credit please email iiha@fordham.edu.
For certificate: apply here and select “Humanitarian Training Courses”
Two weeks before the program begins.
No, scholarships are not offered for this program. However, online humanitarian training courses are structured at a reduced online rate to keep it affordable for global practitioners. If you are budget-conscious and do not need academic credit toward a master’s degree, you can enroll in individual courses for 0 credits to earn a professional certificate, saving over 80% on tuition.
This course is aimed at students who will examine the causes of forced migration, including violent conflict, natural disasters, development projects, human trafficking and others, and will use a variety of case studies to examine international responses to forced migration.
The most important “qualification” is an interest in the causes, mechanism and effects of migration and in particular forced migration along with the economic and political implications.
In-person at Fordham University
*This course is available for 3 credits (toward the MSHS) or certificate
*If the student selects the discounted certificate-based option you will receive a certificate of completion but NOT academic credit
Two weeks before the program begins.
For credit please email iiha@fordham.edu.
For certificate: apply here and select “Humanitarian Training Courses”
No, scholarships are not offered for this program. However, online humanitarian training courses are structured at a reduced online rate to keep it affordable for global practitioners. If you are budget-conscious and do not need academic credit toward a master’s degree, you can enroll in individual courses for 0 credits to earn a professional certificate, saving over 80% on tuition.
This course is aimed at students who will explore the development and application of International Humanitarian Law (IHL), also known as the law of armed conflict.
Computer access, notebook, pen/pencil.
In person Tuesdays, 5:30pm -7:15 pm
*This course is available for 3 credits (toward the MSHS) or certificate
*If the student selects the discounted certificate-based option you will receive a certificate of completion but NOT academic credit
For credit please email iiha@fordham.edu.
For certificate: apply here and select “Humanitarian Training Courses”
Two weeks before the program begins
No, scholarships are not offered for this program. However, online humanitarian training courses are structured at a reduced online rate to keep it affordable for global practitioners. If you are budget-conscious and do not need academic credit toward a master’s degree, you can enroll in individual courses for 0 credits to earn a professional certificate, saving over 80% on tuition.
This course is aimed at students with a comprehensive introduction to international practices and norms concerning protecting vulnerable populations in humanitarian emergencies.
Computer access, notebook, pen/pencil.
Please call our US telephone number at (718) 817-5732 or email iiha@fordham.edu. If you’re in the area, we welcome you to visit us at 2546 Belmont Ave, Bronx, NY10458. If we are not able to answer your call we welcome you to start a chat below via the chat widget during regular business hours M-F 9 am – 5 pm EST
Fordham University undergraduate students can apply for the MSHS Accelerated Master’s program during their junior year and upon acceptance, begin Master’s level classes during their senior year. This program follows a 4+1 year trajectory. You do not need to be a HUST undergraduate student to apply for the accelerated masters program. Please email Ruth Mukwana, IIHA Senior Fellow & Director of Graduate Studies, at rmukwana@fordham.edu or speak with your advisor for more information
Please visit the NOHA website here to learn more or email iiha@fordham.edu with the Subject: Interest in NOHA program at Fordham.
Please email Brendan Cahill, Executive Director at brcahill@fordham.edu. For gallery inquiries please CC refugegallery@fordham.edu
We welcome you to follow us on social media and sign up for our newsletter. Our social media channels can be found below:
Please find our internship opportunities on our Handshake profile and apply. If you are a school administrator and are interested in partnering with us please email Ruth Mukwana, IIHA Senior Fellow and Director of Graduate Studies, at rmukwana@fordham.edu
Asynchronous learning takes place on the student’s own time throughout the course. Synchronous learning takes place simultaneously with the professors each week. For a video explaining each type of online learning please visit the Fordham University website here.
Please visit the Fordham University website for more information on payment plans. Then email us at iiha@fordham.edu for further questions.
Please call our US telephone number at (718) 817-5732 or email iiha@fordham.edu. If you’re in the area, we welcome you to visit us at 2546 Belmont Ave, Bronx, NY10458. If we are not able to answer your call we welcome you to start a chat below via the chat widget during regular business hours M-F 9 am – 5 pm EST
Fordham University undergraduate students can apply for the MSHS Accelerated Master’s program during their junior year and upon acceptance, begin Master’s level classes during their senior year. This program follows a 4+1 year trajectory. You do not need to be a HUST undergraduate student to apply for the accelerated masters program. Please email Ruth Mukwana, IIHA Senior Fellow & Director of Graduate Studies, at rmukwana@fordham.edu or speak with your advisor for more information
Please visit the NOHA website here to learn more or email iiha@fordham.edu with the Subject: Interest in NOHA program at Fordham.
Please email Brendan Cahill, Executive Director at brcahill@fordham.edu. For gallery inquiries please CC refugegallery@fordham.edu
We welcome you to follow us on social media and sign up for our newsletter. Our social media channels can be found below:
Please find our internship opportunities on our Handshake profile and apply. If you are a school administrator and are interested in partnering with us please email Ruth Mukwana, IIHA Senior Fellow and Director of Graduate Studies, at rmukwana@fordham.edu
Asynchronous learning takes place on the student’s own time throughout the course. Synchronous learning takes place simultaneously with the professors each week. For a video explaining each type of online learning please visit the Fordham University website here.
Please visit the Fordham University website for more information on payment plans. Then email us at iiha@fordham.edu for further questions.
Assistant Provost for Corporate Relations at Fordham University
Holly Curtis is an accomplished education leader, currently serving as the Assistant Provost for Corporate Relations at Fordham University. In this role, she fosters partnerships between academia and industry, driving innovative collaborations and advancing strategic goals. Prior to this, Holly was the Chief of Staff at Ascend Public Charter Schools, where she oversaw strategic planning for one of New York’s largest charter networks, and she also led MBA Admissions at NYU Stern School of Business.
With a strong background in strategic leadership, education management, program development, and recruitment, Holly’s career began in international development with Pencils of Promise in Laos. Her work there shaped her expertise in strategic planning and talent development.
Holly holds an MBA from NYU Stern and a BA in International Political Economy from Fordham University. She is deeply committed to advancing diversity and inclusion, and is a certified administrator of the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI). She is also an alumna of NYU’s Global Inclusive Leadership Management Institute.
Helen Hamlyn Humanitarian Fellow and Global Program Director
Martine van der Does is a Dutch national and humanitarian expert with over 15 years of international experience. With a background in architecture she started her career working on humanitarian shelter at Delft University of Technology but soon moved to the field with Médécins sans Frontières (MSF) as a Construction Logistician. In 2010 Martine joined the Netherlands Foreign service where she worked in the Africa Department, Stabilisation and Humanitarian Aid Department and served as a Diplomat in Afghanistan and Jordan. In 2018 joined the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Myanmar where she worked in remote areas on protection and water and habitat issues. Until recently Martine was the Regional Humanitarian Coordinator for the Netherlands Government in Amman, Jordan.
Martine is academically involved as a lecturer at Delft University in the Netherlands and Fordham University in New York. In the past years she also ran the prestigious International Diploma in Humanitarian Assistance (IDHA) as a Course Director in Geneva. Martine holds a Master of Science Degree in Architecture from Delft University of Technology and a Masters of Arts Degree in International Humanitarian Action from Fordham University. In her time off she is an active cyclist, runner, and enjoys ultraraces.
She accepted a position as Helen Hamlyn Humanitarian Fellow at the IIHA in 2024.
Seriously considering the IDHA and want to learn more? Book an appointment with Martine on the left.
Martine hosts Corporate Humanity, a podcast produced by Fordham University’s Institute of International Humanitarian Affairs.
Master of Science in Architecture (MSc) and Master of Arts in International Humanitarian Action (MIHA) and IDHA 24
With the IIHA since: 2008
Current courses: IDHA and non-academic courses
In my free time I enjoy: Traveling, mountains, playing guitar and endurance sports such as long (distance) running, cycling, skiing and swimming.
“In a world you can be anything, be kind to yourself and the people you work for and with. ”