Humanitarian Affairs (HUMN)

A geographical overview of poverty, armed conflict, hunger, disease, and natural disasters and how they can lead to humanitarian crises. It includes a study of human rights along with a look at international efforts to address, and international organizations that deal with, humanitarian crises.

This course is designed to give students an overview of the various types of natural disasters; a look at the world regions that are most vulnerable to each type of disaster; and, a preview of disaster planning, management, relief and response as related to natural disasters.

This course prepares students interested in humanitarian response with basic information on the legal issues of humanitarian law. It covers principles of domestic and international law relevant to the practice of humanitarian response, including international humanitarian law, the law of armed conflict, international human rights law, international criminal law and other legal topics relevant to humanitarian affairs practitioners.

This course will explore the nature and value of human rights by investigating some major debates over their status and meaning, and by examining some of the ways people have tried to secure human rights in practice.

Focused, in-depth study of specific areas or subjects related to Humanitarian Affairs. Topics will provide background and skills important for humanitarian work. Can be repeated as course content changes.

In responding to humanitarian crises, governments and aid organizations must deploy aid workers, deliver essential services, set up temporary settlements, and distribute items such as water and food that are needed for survival. Spatial analysis and maps are critical to the success of these efforts. In this course, students learn the basics of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for humanitarian assistance and learn how relief organizations use GIS in their work.

The HUMN 490 course offers students an opportunity to gain experience and practical skills, preferably in an "international setting," either in the U.S. or abroad, and to apply knowledge and skills acquired through the Humanitarian Affairs program. This course must be completed in a setting approved by the student's advisor and the humanitarian affairs minor committee.