Introduction
In an increasingly complex and crisis-prone world, the demand for skilled humanitarian professionals has never been higher. The NOHA+ Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree (EMJMD) in International Humanitarian Action stands as one of the world’s most respected academic pathways for those who aspire to serve humanity at the global level.
Jointly delivered by leading European universities and supported by the European Commission, this prestigious master’s program offers a fully funded international education experience designed for individuals committed to addressing global humanitarian challenges such as conflict, displacement, natural disasters, and poverty.
If you’ve ever dreamed of combining academic excellence with meaningful action, the NOHA+ EMJMD Programme 2025–2026 could be the perfect opportunity to launch your career in humanitarian leadership.
About the NOHA+ Erasmus Mundus Programme
The Network on Humanitarian Action (NOHA) is a consortium of top-tier European universities established to provide advanced education and research in the field of humanitarian action. Since its creation in 1993, NOHA has trained thousands of professionals who now work with major organizations such as the United Nations, Red Cross, Oxfam, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), and other international NGOs.
In 2018, the program was awarded the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree (EMJMD) status, placing it among Europe’s elite academic programs recognized for excellence in global education and research collaboration.
The NOHA+ EMJMD offers a two-year master’s degree (120 ECTS) with a unique multi-university learning experience students study across different European institutions, gaining cross-cultural perspectives and hands-on field experience.
Programme Overview: A Global Approach to Humanitarian Education
Degree:
Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s in International Humanitarian Action (NOHA+)
Duration 2 years (120 ECTS credits)
Type: Joint Master’s Degree with Erasmus Mundus Scholarships available
Language of Instruction:
English (and, in some partner universities, French or Spanish)
Application Window for EMJMD Scholarship:
1 October 2025 – 15 December 2025 (23:59 GMT)
The program provides both academic excellence and field-based learning, allowing students to understand humanitarian action from political, social, legal, and operational perspectives.
Why Choose NOHA+ Erasmus Mundus?
The NOHA+ EMJMD isn’t just a degree it’s a transformative international experience that equips students to become effective, ethical, and visionary leaders in the humanitarian sector.
1. Study at Multiple Leading European Universities
The program’s consortium includes some of the most prestigious universities in Europe, such as:
- University of Deusto (Spain)
- Uppsala University (Sweden)
- University College Dublin (Ireland)
- Aix-Marseille University (France)
- University of Warsaw (Poland)
- University of Groningen (Netherlands)
- Ruhr-University Bochum (Germany)
- Vilnius University (Lithuania)
Students spend semesters at different partner institutions, immersing themselves in diverse academic and cultural settings.
2. Fully Funded Erasmus Mundus Scholarships
Selected students receive full EMJMD scholarships covering tuition fees, travel expenses, installation costs, and a monthly living allowance making it one of the most competitive fully funded master’s scholarships in Europe.
3. Globally Recognized Curriculum
The NOHA+ curriculum combines theory and practice, offering modules in:
- Humanitarian Principles and Standards
- International Law and Human Rights
- Crisis and Disaster Management
- Public Health in Emergencies
- Humanitarian Policy, Advocacy, and Ethics
- Applied Research Methods
4. International Field Placement
Students complete a humanitarian internship or fieldwork with NGOs, UN agencies, or other international organizations, gaining real-world experience and networking opportunities.
5. Multicultural Learning Experience
Each cohort includes students from over 50 nationalities, fostering global understanding and collaborative problem-solving.
Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, candidates must ensure they meet the minimum eligibility requirements for admission to the NOHA+ EMJMD programme.
Academic Requirements:
- A Bachelor’s degree (EQF level 6) in a discipline relevant to humanitarian action such as international relations, social sciences, law, medicine, or development studies.
- Academic transcripts and diploma must be officially certified and uploaded through the online application system.
Language Proficiency:
Since the program is taught in multiple languages, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in the language(s) of instruction for the universities they plan to attend:
- English: C1 certificate (IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge)
- French: C1 certificate (DELF or equivalent)
- Spanish: B2 certificate (DELE or equivalent)
Supporting Documents (Compulsory Attachments):
Applicants must submit a complete online application including:
- Certified copy of passport or national ID
- Certified copy of diploma and transcripts
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) in English (Europass format recommended)
- Two reference letters
- Proof of language proficiency
- Motivation statement
Professional and Research Experience:
While not mandatory, relevant professional experience in humanitarian action (NGOs, government agencies, or international organizations) and research background strengthen an applicant’s profile.
Selection Criteria
The NOHA+ admissions committee evaluates each application holistically, based on both academic and personal qualities. Candidates are ranked using the following criteria:
- Academic qualifications (type and level)
- Research experience relevant to humanitarian or development studies
- Professional experience (NGO, UN, or governmental institutions)
- Motivation and commitment to humanitarian values
- Linguistic abilities and intercultural competence
- Quality of recommendations
- Interview performance (if applicable)
- Diversity factors: nationality and gender balance
This multi-dimensional assessment ensures that the program selects diverse, capable, and motivated students from all over the world.
Erasmus Mundus Scholarship Eligibility
The EMJMD scholarship offers full financial support to outstanding applicants. However, to qualify for this scholarship, additional eligibility rules apply.
You must:
- Have completed your degree by 15 December 2025.
- Provide proof of nationality applicants with multiple citizenships must choose one nationality during the application process.
- Provide proof of residence, verified through official documents (e.g., residence certificate, employment certificate, or notary-issued proof of residence).
- Ensure all documents are issued within 12 months prior to the application deadline.
Important Restrictions:
- Applicants who have already received an EMJMD scholarship or any Erasmus Mundus Master/Doctorate scholarship are not eligible.
- EMJMD scholarship holders cannot combine this funding with any other EU-funded scholarship for the same program duration.
Who Can Apply
The NOHA+ EMJMD accepts students from both Programme Countries and Partner Countries, as defined by the Erasmus+ Programme Guide.
- Programme Countries: Include all EU Member States and several non-EU countries that fully participate in Erasmus+ (e.g., Norway, Iceland, Turkey, North Macedonia, Serbia).
- Partner Countries: All other non-EU countries not listed as Programme Countries.
Both groups of students are eligible for Erasmus Mundus scholarships, though funding allocations and quotas may differ.
How to Apply
Applying for the NOHA+ EMJMD in International Humanitarian Action requires careful preparation. Below is a simplified guide to ensure your application is complete and competitive.
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Gather all required documents including transcripts, certificates, proof of residence, and language qualifications well before the deadline.
Step 2: Submit Your Online Application
All applications must be submitted through the official NOHA online application system between 1 October and 15 December 2025. Incomplete applications or those missing compulsory attachments will not be processed.
Step 3: Choose Your Mobility Path
Select your preferred combination of NOHA universities. Each institution offers different specializations and language tracks.
Step 4: Apply for the EMJMD Scholarship
During your NOHA+ application, indicate that you wish to be considered for the Erasmus Mundus scholarship. No separate form is needed.
Step 5: Wait for Selection and Interview
Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an online interview to assess motivation, communication skills, and understanding of humanitarian principles.
Step 6: Results and Enrolment
Successful applicants will be notified after the selection process and will receive detailed guidance on visa, housing, and mobility arrangements.
Why Pursue a Career in Humanitarian Action
Humanitarian action is more than a profession it’s a commitment to global solidarity and justice. Graduates of the NOHA+ Erasmus Mundus program work across sectors including:
- International NGOs and UN agencies (UNHCR, UNICEF, WFP, WHO)
- Government and policy institutions
- Humanitarian research and education organizations
- Corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainability roles
The program equips you with the analytical, ethical, and leadership skills needed to manage crises and drive positive change globally.
Tips for a Winning Application
- Show Your Passion: Write a clear and authentic motivation statement demonstrating commitment to humanitarian principles.
- Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasize any fieldwork, volunteer experience, or research related to humanitarian action.
- Obtain Strong References: Choose referees who know your academic or professional potential.
- Prepare Early: Language certification and document verification take time plan ahead.
- Be Globally Minded: Demonstrate adaptability and willingness to study in multicultural environments.
Conclusion
The NOHA+ Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s in International Humanitarian Action represents an unparalleled opportunity to study in Europe with full financial support, gain multicultural experience, and make a difference in the world.
With a network of leading European universities, a comprehensive curriculum, and the prestigious Erasmus Mundus scholarship, the program prepares future leaders to respond effectively to humanitarian crises and contribute to global peace and resilience.
If you’re driven by compassion, academic curiosity, and the desire to build a career that matters, apply before 15 December 2025 and begin your transformative journey in humanitarian action.
Application Link https://apply.nohanet.org/
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