OCBA
Applications for January 2025 and September 2025 are now closed!
Applications are closed, but will reopen in 2025.
Who is it for?
The LEAP programme is aimed at MSF’s current and future leaders in the organization, and those who will become decision makers. It is open to all staff, medical and non-medical, Locally Hired Staff (Programme & HQ) and International Mobile Staff.
We particularly encourage applications from those who have some management experience within their role, and/or those who are technical specialists. This includes, but is not limited to, medical and non-medical coordinators and deputies/ assistants; supervisors; activity managers; doctors, nurses, and paramedical staff.
If you do not have an undergraduate degree but have developed your skills through your professional experience in the humanitarian sector, you may also be considered. For the basic academic requirements please see here. Please note, this is at the University's discretion and there is no guarantee you will be selected.
In line with OCBA commitment to ensure inclusive learning opportunities that can contribute to the diversity of our teams, there will be an emphasis on ensuring the LEAP programme is accessible to those who would otherwise not have the means to pursue a postgraduate level qualification and we strongly encourage applications from women in frontline positions.
The LEAP Programme represents a significant investment on the part of MSF into its staff and is intended to help staff develop into strong humanitarian leaders. This programme is offered in good faith that the graduates will remain with MSF for some time after graduation. As such, please refrain from applying if you are aware that your contract with MSF is coming to an end and you are unlikely to return to MSF employment in the near future.
How will the modules be delivered?
The modules will be delivered online and face-to-face. The length and delivery method of each module will vary. For information about these modules and the academic content of each one, please visit the official partner website.
Please note: as a LEAP student you will spend a minimum of 2 weeks (typically once a year in November) studying face to face in Manchester or Liverpool in order to complete your chosen pathway.
OCBA's policy on study leave is in line with the standard recommendation for the LEAP Programme, and is outlined as follows:
Online optional modules: 0.5 days/week for duration of module.
Face to face core modules: 0.5 days/week for duration of module with the addition of 10 consecutive days wherein the student will be studying in the UK.
Online core modules: 0.5 days/week for duration of module with the addition of 4 days where the student will be required to study synchronously online.
Dissertation: 20 days total to be taken over the year of the Dissertation module.
The exact distribution of this study leave is at the discretion of each student and mission.
How will OCBA prioritise applicants?
Candidates will be selected based on their professional potential in relation to MSF’s operational challenges, motivation and relevant experience, as reflected in their application.
In addition, the Selection Committee ensures that the selection process takes into account the need to promote access to staff groups that have traditionally had less opportunities to participate in this kind of learning programmes.
Applications are currently closed, but in future to apply for LEAP you would need to:
Complete the OCBA LEAP Application Document and send it to the OCBA LEAP email address: LEAP.BCN@barcelona.msf.org [indicate which semester you are applying for] before the listed deadline.
Provide the results of a free online 90 minute English Language test (EF SET test) proving a minimum level of C1 will need to be copied with the OCBA application. Please note, if your application is successful you will have to take an official English Language test as part of the university application process. Please view the official English Language guidance document for further information.
For full details on the English language requirements of the LEAP programme please see the LEAP English Language guidelines.
If you application is successful, you will be asked to sign this commitment form as a sign of your commitment to the LEAP programme and to ensure that you have the support of your supervisor and HRCo.
If your OCBA application is successful, you will then have to apply to the University of Manchester as they will need to verify whether you meet the minimum academic requirements for the programme. Information on how to apply to the University of Manchester will be communicated to successful applicants in due time.
Successful OCBA candidates will initially be enrolled on the PG Certificate pathway with the possibility of extending this to a PG Diploma or an MSc (master) in the future. Permanence Commitment after completion PG Certificate: 12 months.
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Contact Details
If you are part of OCBA and would like more specific information about the conditions or you have questions about your application, please email LEAP.BCN@barcelona.msf.org
For questions related to the academic content of the LEAP courses and for queries about your specific academic background and eligibility, please email leapmsf@manchester.ac.uk
For all general queries, please email leap@london.msf.org
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