UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD · UNITED KINGDOM
MSc in Refugee and Forced Migration Studies
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
9 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 9 monthsFull-time duration
- c. 27Places available
- 212Average applications per year
- Higher levelEnglish language requirement
The MSc in Refugee and Forced Migration Studies at the University of Oxford is an intensive, interdisciplinary program designed for students seeking a deep understanding of forced migration. You will explore the complex causes and consequences of displacement in various contexts, including conflict, natural disasters, and development, gaining critical insights into the needs of forcibly displaced populations. This program equips you with the academic framework and research skills necessary for doctoral study or for careers in human rights, refugee protection, and migration policy. The course provides an intellectually rigorous route to understanding forced migration from anthropological, political, and legal perspectives. You will engage in critical thinking and develop strong evaluative tools, preparing you to conduct and disseminate research effectively to diverse audiences. The program emphasizes small group teaching, fostering active participation and allowing students to learn from leading experts across various disciplines.
Curriculum
The MSc in Refugee and Forced Migration Studies is structured across three terms, combining core courses, research methods training, optional modules, and a final thesis. Teaching involves small classes (5-25 students) with regular one-to-one supervisions, lectures, workshops, and student presentations. You will undertake significant self-directed study in addition to formal teaching.
- Full-time (9 months)
- Core Courses (Anthropological, Political, and Legal perspectives on Forced Migration)
- Research Methods in Forced Migration
- Option Course 1 (e.g., Advanced International Human Rights and Refugee Law, regional specialisation)
- Option Course 2 (e.g., Advanced International Human Rights and Refugee Law, regional specialisation)
- Thesis
Careers
Graduates of the MSc in Refugee and Forced Migration Studies pursue diverse careers in academia, law, and international development. The course provides support for career development, including informal advice sessions and information on employment prospects.
- Doctoral researcher
- Lawyer (human rights/refugee law)
- Programme Officer (UNHCR, IOM, UNDP)
- Advocacy Officer (Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch)
- Researcher (think tanks, foundations)
- Government official
- Academic
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees and living costs for this programme?
- International tuition fees are not specified and should be checked on the university's website. Estimated living costs for 9 months range from £12,825 to £18,315, excluding travel, fieldwork, and visa costs.
- What is the duration of the MSc in Refugee and Forced Migration Studies?
- The programme is full-time and lasts for 9 months, covering three terms.
- What are the entry requirements for this programme?
- Applicants must meet a 'Higher level' English language requirement. Specific academic requirements are not detailed in the provided information.
- How do I apply for the MSc in Refugee and Forced Migration Studies?
- Applications for 2026-27 are closed; register for email updates for the 2027-28 intake. The process includes preparing documents like transcripts and recommendations, and submitting an online application by the university's January deadline for scholarship consideration.
- What are the career prospects after completing this programme?
- Graduates pursue careers in academia, law, international development, and policy, with roles such as doctoral researchers, lawyers, and programme officers at organizations like UNHCR and Amnesty International.
- Are there any scholarships available for international students?
- New College offers generous merit/need-based Graduate Awards. To be considered, you must specify New College as your first-choice college on your application, which must be submitted by the University's January deadline.
Entry requirements
IELTSHigher level
Other recognized testsEquivalent 'Higher level'
The course requires a 'Higher level' English language proficiency. Specific IELTS scores are not provided but equivalent scores for other tests are also accepted.
Fees
Tuition (international)Information not provided in source. Please check the university's fees and funding pages for the exact international tuition fee.
Tuition (home)Information not provided in source. Please check the university's fees and funding pages for the exact home/domestic tuition fee.
LivingEstimated living costs for 9 months are between £12,825 and £18,315.
These living cost estimates are for a single, full-time student without dependents living in Oxford and include food, accommodation, personal items, social activities, study costs, and miscellaneous expenses. Additional costs such as travel to Oxford, fieldwork, visa application fees, and the immigration health surcharge are not included. For international students, the immigration health surcharge must be paid upfront for the entire visa duration.
How to apply
1. Register for UpdatesAs applications for 2026-27 are closed, register to receive an email notification when applications open for the 2027-28 academic year.
2. Prepare your Application DocumentsGather all necessary documents, which typically include academic transcripts, English language test scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Specific requirements will be detailed when applications open.
3. Submit Online ApplicationComplete and submit the online graduate application form through the University of Oxford's admissions portal by the specified deadline.
4. College Choice (for scholarships)If applying for New College graduate awards, ensure New College is specified as your first-choice college in your application.
Scholarships
New College Graduate AwardsGenerous college awards
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees and living costs for this programme?
+
International tuition fees are not specified and should be checked on the university's website. Estimated living costs for 9 months range from £12,825 to £18,315, excluding travel, fieldwork, and visa costs.
What is the duration of the MSc in Refugee and Forced Migration Studies?
+
The programme is full-time and lasts for 9 months, covering three terms.
What are the entry requirements for this programme?
+
Applicants must meet a 'Higher level' English language requirement. Specific academic requirements are not detailed in the provided information.
How do I apply for the MSc in Refugee and Forced Migration Studies?
+
Applications for 2026-27 are closed; register for email updates for the 2027-28 intake. The process includes preparing documents like transcripts and recommendations, and submitting an online application by the university's January deadline for scholarship consideration.
What are the career prospects after completing this programme?
+
Graduates pursue careers in academia, law, international development, and policy, with roles such as doctoral researchers, lawyers, and programme officers at organizations like UNHCR and Amnesty International.
Are there any scholarships available for international students?
+
New College offers generous merit/need-based Graduate Awards. To be considered, you must specify New College as your first-choice college on your application, which must be submitted by the University's January deadline.