MSc in International Development and Humanitarianism in Uxbridge United Kingdom | Brunel University of London

Over the past decade, worldwide efforts to alleviate poverty among the most disadvantaged populations have brought unprecedented focus to global development initiatives. International organizations, governments, and NGOs are now collaborating more extensively than ever to implement effective policies and programs. Anthropology has significantly contributed to evolving viewpoints on humanitarian aid and the survival strategies of communities facing extreme challenges like famines, disasters, and conflicts. While this has prompted profound reassessments of existing approaches, it has also resulted in anthropologists occasionally occupying contentious positions within frameworks linked to counterterrorism efforts. This program offers deep engagement with current discussions and examines their broader consequences, while situating them within anthropological scholarship. Designed for graduates from diverse academic backgrounds—including anthropology, sociology, economics, political science, geography, law, and development studies—it particularly suits those aiming to analyze international aid policies and war zone interventions through an anthropological lens. Brunel's anthropology program emphasizes hands-on ethnographic research, encouraging students to complement theoretical study with original fieldwork, conducted either locally or internationally, culminating in a dissertation.

Career prospects
Beyond preparing students for PhD research or academic roles, this degree strengthens professional opportunities across multiple sectors, including NGOs, global institutions (such as WHO and WFP), government bodies (like the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office), and corporate environments.