The Humanitarian Project Cycle Management short course equips professionals with essential skills to design and implement effective humanitarian responses. This executive online programme enhances the capacities of project managers and humanitarian professionals, providing practical tools for sustainable and locally driven projects.

Built on the Theory of Change (ToC) and Results-Based Management (RBM), the course follows a structured, outcome-focused approach. Participants learn to apply key project management tools, such as problem tree analysis and the logical framework, to real-world humanitarian challenges. These methods help ensure that projects remain strategic, measurable, and impact-driven.

A key feature of this programme is its hands-on approach. Through a case study, participants engage with each phase of the project cycle—from needs assessment and project design to implementation, monitoring, and evaluation. This interactive format reinforces learning and allows for immediate application in professional settings.

Moreover, peer learning and experience sharing play a central role. Participants discuss challenges, exchange insights, and reflect on their own professional contexts. By engaging with trainers and fellow practitioners, they sharpen their critical thinking and problem-solving skills, ultimately improving their ability to manage humanitarian projects effectively.

By the end of the programme, participants develop a well-structured project plan based on humanitarian best practices. The Humanitarian Project Cycle Management course is ideal for project managers, field officers, and humanitarian professionals who seek to strengthen their expertise and create lasting impact.

Admission requirements:

  1. A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a Swiss or foreign university;
  2. At least two years of relevant professional experience;
  3. Excellent command of English (see below)

Documents required:

  • CV (Resume)
  • Cover letter (explaining what is the reason why you apply for this course and how will the acquired skills help you in your career)
  • Employer’s funding agreement, if applicable
  • Highest educational qualification obtained
  • Work certificate or official document of your current job position
  • Proof of English language competence to be dated less than 2 years (see details below)
  • Portrait photo (ID format)
  • Scanned copy of the passport

Language Requirements

The minimum required English level is B2. Providing a language certificate is mandatory, except in the following cases:

  1. If you are a native English speaker, please provide a copy of your passport as proof.
  2. You have been studying in English for at least three years: please provide a certificate from your institution, your transcript or your diploma.
  3. If you have worked for at least five years in English with MSF or ICRC, please provide a copy of the English test you have undertaken internally with your employer.

Recognized Tests and Scores:

    • Cambridge English First (FCE) 160-179
    • Cambridge English Preliminary (PET) 160-170
    • B2 Business Vantage
    • IELTS 5.5-6
    • TOEFL iBT 72-94
    • TOEIC Listening & Reading 785
    • TOEIC Speaking & Writing 310
    • PTE Geneval Level 3
    • PTE Academic 59-75
    • Duolingo : 110
    • EF SET (CEFR) : B2

More information about the admission process is available on our application page.