Master in Human Security – (M.Sc.)

What is Human Security?

During recent years, the concept ’human security’ has become a rallying point for understanding and working with processes of (human) development in unstable environments marked by social and environmental conflicts. Particularly the growing challenges posed by global environmental changes threaten to trigger a rapid escalation of conflicts throughout the world as competition over access to scarce resources intensifies, supplies of essential commodities dwindle and global population rates continue to increase.

Challenging conventional understandings of security

Human security is more than an absence from physical aggression. As a cross-disciplinary development approach, the Master in Human Security comprises not only various forms of militarized and physical security; it also refers to secure access to water, food, land and education.

Why become an expert in Human Security?

The climate is changing, resources are declining, and social tension is on the rise. How can people – in the Global South as well as the Global North – lead safe and secure lives, now and in the future, under these conditions? That is the challenge that the Master in Human Security enables you to meet.

Strong competences and future job opportunities

The Master in Human Security is unique in that it takes a holistic approach to development in a changing natural and social world. You will acquire a hands-on extension of your bachelor’s degree – whether your BA is from the social or natural sciences.

The competences that this master’s programme gives you are in demand, both now and in the future. Human Security aims at employment opportunities in the development sector. These might include:

• National and international NGOs

• Governmental development organisations

• UN organisations (e.g. UNHCR or UNDP)

• Development consultancies