Applications are now open for the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree Programme in International Humanitarian Action (NOHA), an internationally recognized postgraduate program that prepares students to become highly skilled professionals in the humanitarian sector. Established in 1993 through collaboration between NOHA Universities, the Directorate-General for Humanitarian Action and Civil Protection (ECHO), and the Directorate-General for Education and Culture, the program has grown into one of the most respected humanitarian education initiatives in the world.

In 2025, NOHA was once again selected as an Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Programme, reaffirming its long-standing commitment to delivering high-quality education, research, and professional training for humanitarian practitioners. The program offers students not only academic excellence but also hands-on experience, global exposure, and an international professional network.

A Global Program for Future Humanitarian Leaders

The NOHA Master’s Programme is designed for individuals working or aspiring to work in humanitarian action—regardless of their nationality, religion, or background. Its goal is to equip students with the interdisciplinary knowledge, ethical grounding, and leadership skills needed to respond effectively to humanitarian crises.

Over nearly three decades, the NOHA network has educated thousands of professionals who now serve in leadership roles within international organizations, governments, and NGOs. Through its academic rigor and practical focus, the program has become a cornerstone of professional humanitarian education in Europe and beyond.

A distinctive feature of NOHA is its mobility component. Students study at multiple universities across Europe, benefiting from diverse academic environments, cultural perspectives, and languages. This dynamic learning journey fosters intercultural understanding and prepares graduates to operate effectively in global humanitarian contexts.

Participating universities include institutions in Spain, France, Belgium, Ireland, Poland, Sweden, Malta, Germany, and the Netherlands—all of which bring specialized expertise and regional perspectives to the program.

Academic and Professional Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the NOHA program develop a broad set of competencies grouped into three main areas:

1. Vision and Analysis:
Students gain a global and comprehensive understanding of humanitarian contexts, including conflict and disaster management. They develop the ability to critically assess complex crises and identify innovative approaches for response and resilience-building.

2. Strategic Management:
The program emphasizes leadership and decision-making in humanitarian operations. Students learn to manage teams, design policies, and implement humanitarian projects in alignment with international principles and values. They also acquire the ability to coordinate diverse actors and ensure accountability in humanitarian operations.

3. Personal Integrity and Leadership:
NOHA instills strong ethical foundations and a commitment to humanitarian principles. Students learn to navigate moral dilemmas, manage stress in crisis situations, and lead with empathy and cultural sensitivity.

Admission Requirements and Eligibility

The NOHA Master’s welcomes applicants from all disciplines relevant to humanitarian action—such as social sciences, law, health, economics, management, and engineering. Applicants must hold at least a Bachelor’s degree (180 ECTS) and meet specific language proficiency requirements based on the chosen universities. English is the main language of instruction, although some institutions teach in French or Spanish during the first semesters.

Applications are highly competitive and evaluated based on academic merit, professional experience, motivation, linguistic ability, and concern for humanitarian issues. Successful applicants demonstrate both intellectual ability and a genuine commitment to humanitarian values.

All students must complete two physical mobility periods in different countries (one must be an EU Member State or associated country). Virtual mobility cannot replace these required study periods.

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Erasmus Mundus Scholarship and Programme Costs

Selected students may qualify for the Erasmus+ Scholarship, which covers tuition fees, travel, installation, and living expenses for the full 24-month program. The scholarship provides a monthly allowance of €1,400 for the duration of the studies.

Participation costs are €4,000 per semester (totaling €16,000 for the full program), covering tuition, administrative fees, and access to academic facilities. Self-funded students are responsible for accommodation, travel, and visa expenses.

Key Dates and Application Process

• October 1, 2025: Applications open for the 2026–2028 cohort.

• December 15, 2025: Deadline for Erasmus Mundus scholarship applications.

• April 1, 2026: General application deadline for all candidates.

• July 2026: Notifications sent to selected and non-selected candidates.

All applications must be submitted online through the NOHA Application Portal. Required documents include a passport copy, degree certificates, transcripts, CV (preferably in Europass format), proof of language proficiency, reference letters, and proof of residence.

Rejected candidates may appeal to the Joint Admissions Board within seven days of receiving the decision.

For more details and access to the application form, visit the official NOHA website or contact nohamasters@deusto.es.

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