International Diploma in Humanitarian Assistance
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where are future courses being held?
In 2009, courses will be held in June in New York City, and in November in Nairobi, Kenya. However, dates and locations for the IDHA vary. Please refer to our Calendar of Events.
What is the length of the program?
The IDHA runs for a full four weeks.
What is the total cost for this program?
The fee for the course is 5200 USD. This cost includes the tuition payment, course materials, lodging, and all weekday meals. Transportation to and from the course location is not included.
Can I provide my own accommodations and meals?
No. We consider living and dining with the other IDHA participants to be an integral part of the learning experience.
What is the academic level of this course?
The IDHA is a post-graduate program that works in cooperation with Fordham University, The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, and the UN System Staff College.
Can I receive academic credit upon completion of this course?
Yes, Fordham University grants 8 academic credits for successful completion of the IDHA.
What language(s) is this course offered in?
The IDHA is taught in English only.
Am I eligible to apply?
All participants are required to have a University degree and to be a minimum of 25 years old. Preference will be given to students with humanitarian field experience, emergency or development.
How do I apply?
If you are interested in applying, please fill out an application.
What is the final date to apply for an IDHA course?
Applications are taken on a rolling basis. Once the course has been filled, a waiting list will be implemented.
Is a place in the course reserved for me once I am accepted?
No, a place is only reserved for you once we have received a deposit of $1000, which must be within 14 days of your acceptance.
When must I pay the full tuition?
Full tuition must be received 30 days before the program’s start date.
What is your cancellation policy?
Please view our complete cancellation policy.
Can I defer my acceptance?
Deferment is acceptable until 30 days before the program’s start date. After that, you may not be able to acquire a refund. Please see our cancellation policy for further information.
Are scholarships available?
Yes, scholarships are available from several sources.
Am I eligible for a scholarship?
The CIHC offers a small number of partial scholarships (no more than fifty percent) to selected students. To be eligible, you must be a citizen of a developing nation and be currently working within the humanitarian field. Scholarships do not cover the cost of transportation. Scholarships cannot be deferred or transferred to other courses.
Are there other scholarships available?
If you are an Italian citizen currently working within the humanitarian field, you may be eligible for a scholarship from the Fondazione Marco Besso. This foundation generally grants 6 to 7 scholarship a year. These scholarships are decided upon once a year. If you would like to be considered for a scholarship, you must apply by September or October for the forthcoming year (i.e. scholarships for 2010 courses were decided upon at the end of 2009). To apply, please submit an application and please Contact Us to specify that you are seeking a scholarship from the Fondazione Marco Besso.
The scholarships for all 2010 course have been allocated.
If accepted, do I need a visa?
Depending on your citizenship, you may need a visa. After we receive your deposit, our staff will send you an invitation letter to the program, which can be used to apply for a visa. Although we may be able to provide assistance in obtaining you a visa, it is the participant’s responsibility to obtain his/her visa.
