This module explores the experience of refugees and other forced migrants displaced by conflict. It examines the causes of contemporary forced migration in order to understand the implications of different causes for the nature of migration flows and the corresponding humanitarian response. It critically evaluates the international and regional normative frameworks for the protection of forced migrants, considering different migrant categories: refugees, internally displaced persons, stateless persons, and victims of human trafficking. The module considers the practical dilemmas in protecting the rights of forced migrants.
The course runs from April to June each year.
It is developed over 8 weeks for non-credit and 11 weeks for those taking the course for credits.
This includes 2 reading weeks, 6 interactive weeks and for those taking the course for credits 3 weeks for finalising assessments.
Most of the course is asynchronous except for a one hour per week webinar. It is designed to be accessible for learners working full time.
Designed and delivered jointly by the Centre for Development and Emergency Practice (CENDEP) of Oxford Brookes University and the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR)
Humanitarian Action and Peacebuilding courses give you an unique access to resources, experts and support
from both institutions.
For those following the credit-rated route, credit from this module can be counted towards
the the PGCert/MA Humanitarian Action and Peacebuilding after completion.
The course includes 6 key sessions:
Causes of forced migration in the 21st century
International and regional protection of refugees
Protection of other forced migrants: internal displacement, environmental migrants, statelessness and trafficking
Spaces of displacement: livelihoods in camps and cities
Responding to refugees: protection, humanitarianism, and localisation
Rights of refugees and durable solutions
Critically analyse the causes and political and economic impact of forced migration, and identify changing patterns of human displacement in the twenty-first century.
Understand the scope and shortcomings of international standards relating to forced migration
Appraise the effectiveness of interventions in support of refugee livelihoods, in light of an understanding of the economic strategies used by forced migrants.
Make a critical evaluation of the impact of their own organizational interventions for the protection of forced migrants
The module is taught by expert practitioners and researchers working on culture sensitivity in conflict and post-conflict settings
You will have an opportunity to interact and learn with peers and expert facilitators from across the world.
Approaches to teaching and learning are designed to support those studying alongside full- or part-time work and other commitments
The course is offered for credit or on a non-credit basis. The non-credit rated route leads to a certificate of attendance. The credit-rated route requires learners to complete assessments, leading to a transcript of record and the credits can be accumulated to reach an award.
This module forms part of the PGCert/MA Humanitarian Action and Peacebuilding. For those following the credit-rated route, credit from this module can be counted towards the PGCert/MA if you decide to continue your studies after completion. The Gcert and Ma is co-delivered with the United Nations Institute for training and Research (UNITAR)
The course is run by the Queen's Award winning Centre for Development and Emergency Practice (CENDEP), a multidisciplinary centre founded in 1985, that brings together academics, development practitioners and policy makers to develop reflective practice.
Oxford Brookes University is one of the UK's leading modern universities and enjoys an international reputation for teaching excellence and innovation.
This course is for practitioners already working in the humanitarian, conflict transformation
and peacebuilding fields and in related areas (diplomacy, journalism…) who wish to continue their professional development,
and practitioners working in other fields interested in exploring opportunities in these areas.
Julia Heemstra, AMANZI
'This module had a seismic impact on my career path.
I focused my individual research primarily on climate refugees and the impact of climate change on populations in the region of South Africa where my humanitarian organisation is based.
The conclusions I drew from this examination resulted in my organisation’s formalised commitment to conduct all work in an eco-friendly manner, with a particular focus on utilising climate-smart technology.'
For Credit: £1,145
Non-credit: £600
Application deadlines:
Credit rated: January 10th 2025
Non-credit rated (certificate of attendance): March 28th 2025
Cancellation policy
In case the course is cancelled, all registered participants will receive a 100% refund.
In case you need to cancel your booking, the following will apply:
Credit rated: A 50% refund will be issued if the cancellation is made up to and on 10 January. No refund will be provided in case of cancellations made after 10 January.
Non-credit rated: A 50% refund will be issued if the cancellation is made up to and on 28 March. No refund will be provided in case of cancellations made after 28 March.
If you have any enquiries about the course, please email us at: bpiquard@brookes.ac.uk