Refugee Care

The MSc in Refugee Care at the University of Essex is a comprehensive postgraduate programme designed to equip students with the essential knowledge, skills, and competencies needed to address the complex challenges faced by refugees and displaced populations worldwide. This programme offers an interdisciplinary approach, combining insights from social sciences, human rights, international law, welfare, and development studies to foster a deep understanding of the issues surrounding forced migration. Students will explore the legal frameworks that protect refugees, understand the socio-economic factors influencing displacement, and develop practical skills for effective intervention and support. The programme emphasizes critical thinking, ethical considerations, and evidence-based practice, preparing graduates for careers in humanitarian aid, policy-making, NGOs, government agencies, and international organizations. Through a mix of lectures, seminars, case studies, and practical projects, students will engage with current topics such as refugee integration, trauma and mental health, refugee policy and advocacy, and crisis management. The programme also offers opportunities for fieldwork and internships, providing valuable real-world experience and professional networking. Taught by leading experts and practitioners in the field, the MSc in Refugee Care aims to empower students to make meaningful contributions towards improving refugee welfare, advocating for policy change, and promoting social justice globally. Upon completion, graduates will be well-equipped to pursue impactful careers dedicated to supporting and advocating for refugees in a variety of international and local contexts.

Refugee Care at the University of Essex is a comprehensive and immersive programme designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary to support and advocate for refugees and displaced populations around the world. This programme combines academic coursework with real-world applications, fostering a deep understanding of the complex issues surrounding forced migration, asylum policies, and humanitarian assistance.

Throughout the course, students explore the historical, political, social, and legal dimensions of refugee movements, gaining insights into the challenges faced by refugees in their journeys and upon resettlement. The curriculum includes modules on international refugee law, human rights, trauma and psychosocial support, and the role of NGOs and international organizations in refugee advocacy and aid. Emphasis is placed on developing critical thinking skills, cultural sensitivity, and ethical awareness, preparing graduates to work effectively in diverse and demanding environments.

Practical components are integrated into the programme through placements, workshops, and projects with partner organizations, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts. These opportunities often include working directly with refugee communities, assisting in resettlement procedures, or supporting outreach initiatives. Such experiences are invaluable for building professional competence and understanding the complexities involved in refugee care.

The Refugee Care programme also encourages interdisciplinary approaches, inviting expertise from fields such as social work, politics, law, and international development. Students are encouraged to engage with current global issues through seminars, guest lectures, and debates led by experienced practitioners and academics. Additionally, the programme fosters a critical awareness of the policies and debates surrounding refugee protection, empowering students to become informed advocates and future leaders in this vital area.

Graduates of the programme are well-prepared for careers in humanitarian organizations, government agencies, international bodies, and NGOs dedicated to refugee support and human rights. They possess a robust combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, enabling them to contribute effectively to policy development, program implementation, and community engagement aimed at improving the lives of refugees worldwide.

Admission to the Refugee Care degree programme at the University of Essex requires applicants to have completed at least two A-levels or an equivalent qualification, demonstrating strong academic performance. Applicants must also present evidence of proficiency in English, typically through an IELTS score of 6.0 or higher, unless they have previously studied in an English-speaking institution. In addition to academic qualifications, the university encourages applicants to submit a personal statement outlining their interest in refugee care, relevant voluntary or work experience, and motivation for pursuing this field. While prior experience in social work, humanitarian aid, or related areas is not mandatory, it is considered advantageous and can enhance an application. The programme welcomes applicants from diverse academic backgrounds, including social sciences, humanities, or relevant professional fields. International applicants must meet visa requirements and provide supporting documentation such as a valid passport and evidence of financial capability to support themselves during their studies. The university assesses each application on a case-by-case basis, considering academic results, personal statement, references, and relevant experience. Placement and practical coursework are integral parts of the programme, and applicants may need to demonstrate their suitability and readiness for fieldwork, including additional checks such as DBS or background clearance, depending on placement settings. Successful applicants will be enrolled in a rigorous programme designed to prepare them for professional roles in refugee support services, including roles in NGOs, humanitarian agencies, and government bodies. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, emphasizing cultural sensitivity, legal frameworks surrounding refugees, mental health support, and crisis management. The entry criteria are designed to ensure students are prepared for the demands of the programme and the profession, fostering a diverse and committed student body dedicated to improving refugee care.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The University of Essex offers a range of financing options for students enrolled in the Refugee Care programme. Tuition fees vary depending on the student’s residency status and the specific terms of their study, with home students typically paying reduced rates compared to international students. For the academic year 2023-2024, the undergraduate tuition fee for UK/EU students is approximately £9,250 per year, while international students are charged around £18,700 per year. Postgraduate fees may differ, with home students paying about £8,500 to £10,000 per year, and international students facing fees ranging from £14,000 to £16,000 annually.

The University of Essex provides several financial support options to assist students with the costs of their studies. Scholarships and bursaries are available based on academic merit, financial hardship, or specific criteria related to the Refugee Care programme. For example, the Essex Humanity Interdisciplinary Scholarships support students demonstrating significant social commitment or personal experience related to refugee issues. Moreover, the university participates in government loan schemes, such as Student Finance England, which offers tuition fee loans and maintenance loans to eligible UK students. International students are encouraged to seek funding from their home countries, as many governments and organizations offer scholarships for international study.

Students also have access to part-time work opportunities on campus, which can help offset living expenses. The university’s Career Service provides guidance on securing part-time employment and internships relevant to the student’s field of study. Additionally, some students may qualify for hardship funds or bursaries specifically designed to support students facing financial difficulties. These funds are usually allocated based on demonstrated need and are intended to help cover essential expenses such as accommodation, books, and living costs.

International students should consider additional costs such as visa fees, health insurance, and travel expenses. The UK government’s immigration health surcharge provides access to the National Health Service (NHS), but it requires payment at the start of the visa application process. Students are advised to budget carefully and explore all available funding opportunities to ensure their financial stability throughout their course.

The university also recommends applying early for financial aid and scholarships, as funding opportunities are competitive and limited in number. Financial planning support is available through the university’s Student Support Service, which advises students on managing their finances, applying for funding, and understanding the full scope of their financial responsibilities. In summary, the University of Essex offers a variety of financial assistance options to help students pursue their Refugee Care studies, aiming to make higher education accessible to those committed to making a difference in refugee welfare and support.

Refugee Care at the University of Essex is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to support refugees and forcibly displaced populations. The program integrates multidisciplinary perspectives, combining social sciences, humanitarian studies, and practical care approaches to prepare graduates for working in complex, multicultural, and often challenging environments. Students will engage with topics such as human rights, refugee law, international protection, trauma counseling, and community development. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, ensuring that graduates can respond effectively to the needs of refugees in various settings.

Throughout the course, students will have opportunities for experiential learning, including internships, field visits, and collaborations with NGOs and international organizations involved in refugee assistance. The program aims to develop essential skills such as intercultural communication, crisis management, ethical decision-making, and advocacy. It also emphasizes the importance of resilience and self-care for professionals working in demanding environments. The program is suitable for individuals seeking careers in humanitarian aid, social work, policy development, or international relations related to refugee and displaced populations.

The University of Essex offers excellent support and resources for students enrolled in the Refugee Care program, including access to specialized research centers, workshops, and seminars with experts in migration and refugee issues. The university's diverse student body and strong international partnerships facilitate a rich learning environment that fosters cross-cultural understanding and collaborative problem-solving. Graduates from this program are well-positioned to contribute meaningfully to global efforts to assist refugees and promote human rights, whether through employment with NGOs, government agencies, or international bodies. The program’s flexible structure allows for part-time study and opportunities for online learning, making it accessible to a wider range of students worldwide. Overall, the Refugee Care program at the University of Essex aims to produce informed, compassionate, and skilled professionals dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of displaced populations around the world.