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There is an urgent need for Humanitarian Workers worldwide. Western is taking the lead in training the next generation of qualified Humanitarian and Development Aid Workers.
The Bachelor of Humanitarian and Development Studies is unique being the only degree of its kind in Australia. This program was developed in consultation with NGOs to ensure what you learn is current and practical. Academics delivering this program include experts and practitioners from the United Nations agencies and international NGOs to ensure what you learn is current and practical.
Study options
FULL TIME
3 years
PART TIME
6 years
Start times
Spring
July
(2023)
Autumn
March
(2024)
Explore Western | 29 May-10 June
Get a head-start on your future with the wide range of programs available for mid-year entry at Western.
Chat to us one-on-one to explore your options so you can start your degree in 2023.
The degree for all humanity
You will gain knowledge and practical experience in disaster management, humanitarian response and development assistance. Using our state of the art facilities, the experiential learning techniques applied utilise your theoretical knowledge for emedded simulation activities, case, problem and solution-based studies. We offer students regular opportunities with experts and practitioners from the United Nations agencies and international NGOs as guest speakers, seminars and career panels.
The comprehensive field experience package enhances your learning, research and real world experience to ensure you are career ready. A major component of the degree is a placement overseas for a full semester, which will be assisted by international partners including United Nations agencies and international NGOs. During your placement you will work on implementing life-saving programs and policies.
Are you ready to make a difference?
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Program structure
The program structure is outlined in our handbook. Here you can view all of the subjects you will be studying.
Fees and delivery
Fees: Varies depending on subjects selected. View available subjects in our handbook.
For further information on University fees, please visit Fees and University Costs.
Delivery: On campus
Fee: AUD $27,552*
Delivery: On campus
Humanitarian and Development Studies Graduates at Work
Humanitarian student finds meaning in Türkiye field work
Baris Unal is one of the individuals who have been on the ground as part of the global response to the devastating Türkiye-Syria earthquakes.
A postgraduate student at Western Sydney University studying the Masters of Humanitarian and Development Studies, he is building on qualifications gained at the prominent Istanbul University.
Start your unlimited journey today.
Your career
As a graduate, you will be able to go on to careers in the community, government and private sector both in Australia and overseas. Our graduates also go on to make a meaningful difference that will impact the lives of many families and vulnerable populations. As a Humanitarian and Development Studies graduate, you can look forward to career opportunities in:
- Humanitarian Relief
- Aid Development Programming
- Project Managing
- Disaster Relief Work
- Policy Development
- Community Risk Assessment & Disaster Preparedness
- Logistics/Supply Chain
- Program Evaluation
Your career
International Aid Worker
As an International Aid Worker, your calling will take you across the globe. This career includes working for NGOs, managing humanitarian crisises and providing diaster relief.
Disaster Relief Worker
When a natural disaster strikes or an emergency situation arises, Disaster Relief Workers provide a wide range of services to help the community cope from the impact of a disaster.
Project Manager
Project Managers work specifically on designated humanitarian and development projects. Their tasks involve the conceptualisation, design, implementation and evaluation of the projects.
Policy Developer
Policy Developers collect and analyse information and data to develop and analyse policies guiding the design, implementation and modification of NGOs, government, commercial operations and programs.
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Apply now and start your unlimited journey.
Other study options
*The tuition fees quoted above are the fees for the normal full-time study load of the program (80 credit points) per annum. International students will be subject to a variable fee regime; i.e. enrolled students will be required to pay fees during their program based on the approved fee for each calendar year. Fee changes (if any) will occur at 1 January each calendar year. Students who extend their program past the normal finish date of the program will be required to pay additional fees based on the prevailing fee level. Western Sydney University is a multi-campus institution. The University reserves the right to alter the location of its programs between campuses and other locations as necessary. Students should be aware of the possibility of change of location for the whole or part of programs for which they enrol and should plan for the need to travel between Western Sydney campuses.
** Lowest Selection Rank
