Degree Programs

Dual Master of Science in Global Health Policy and Management and Master of Arts in Conflict Resolution and Coexistence

Overview

The nexus between global health and conflict resolution is a growing one. As natural disasters, pandemics and disease, environmental degradation and wars and refugee crises threaten the stability of countries, so does the need for those trained in both the strengthening of health systems and the resolution of conflict at every stage. Students in Heller's MS in Global Health and Policy Management and MA in Conflict Resolution and Coexistence dual degree program are trained in humanitarian aid and disaster management, preparing them to work at organizations such as the International Committee of the Red Cross, whose works lives at the intersection between health, development and conflict.

This is a program for those who seek careers on the front lines of health policy and conflict resolution, whether it be the reconstruction of health systems post-conflict, the strengthening of health access in refugee crises or the improvement of health programs in domestic areas facing inequality and structural violence. The GHPM offers two concentrations: Health Systems or Health Economics and Analytics (STEM).

Program Description

  • This is a two-year program that includes a summer practicum, a master’s paper and a capstone presentation.
  • Students will undertake the full coursework of both the MS in Global Health and Policy Management and the MA in Conflict Resolution and Coexistence.
  • Graduates receive two degrees, with a concentration. 
  • The program is a total of 80 credits, with 68 course credits and 12 credits for the COEX practicum and paper.
  • Students are required to be in full time residence at the Heller school for two academic years excluding the summer practicum.
  • Students receive academic advising from both programs.
  • Students conduct their practicum in organizations which work on health and humanitarian aid or conflict issues. Students complete a master’s paper and a capstone in their final spring semester and are provided with detailed guidance on each.

Students in dual degree programs fulfill the complete requirements for each degree, earning degrees for both programs.

Curriculum

Students have the option of beginning the program with the MA COEX or MS/GHPM requirements. Below is a recommended course sequence beginning with MA COEX requirements.

Students can also add an optional concentration in Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Management, as part of their elective coursework.

The GHPM courses take two semesters in residence. Students must apply to be in either the Health Systems or the STEM track. Below are examples of each track.

MS GHPM Year Health Systems (36 credits minimum)

Fall

Spring

MS GHPM Year Health Economics and Analytics (STEM) (36 credits minimum)