WaCA

Applications are currently open for the January and September 2024 intakes.

Closing date: 31st August

WaCA and LEAP


WaCA is opening for LEAP applications for the first time in July 2023, for entry in January and September 2024. This pilot cohort will give 3 WaCA students the opportunity to study LEAP, either on the PG Certificate or PG Diploma pathway (see below).

WaCA supports LEAP in being as inclusive as possible, including for those who have fewer opportunities to access such programmes. WaCA particularly encourages female staff to apply.



Who is it for?

LEAP is here to support MSF’s current and potential leaders, with an emphasis on ensuring the programme is accessible to those who would otherwise not have the means to pursue a postgraduate level qualification.

 

For WaCA, we have based our selection criteria on the following:

 

If you have developed your skills through professional experience in the humanitarian sector, you will also be considered, even if you do not have a university degree.

 

Your application should emphasize the relevant aspects of your professional experience and demonstrate your ability to produce written work.

 

We particularly encourage applications from those who have, as a minimum, 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.



Course delivery and pathway


The courses will be delivered through a blended learning programme, combining face-to-face teaching (including intensive courses taught over a few weeks – maximum 5) with content delivered remotely through an online learning platform. Please visit the LEAP Website for more information on the course content.

 

 

WaCA staff will be eligible to take the Postgraduate Certificate or Postgraduate Diploma.

For further information on the structure of each pathway, please visit the external LEAP Website.


 

 

If you are interested in taking a Short Courses option (also called ‘Standalone Module’) related to your professional interests, the application process is managed by MSF UK. The cohort for September 2023 has already been selected, but the program will reopen for January 2024 courses. To not miss the next announcement, we suggest subscribing to the LEAP newsletter.





How can you apply?


If you wish to apply for the LEAP programme, please provide - if it's too heavy to send in an email you can use WeTransfer : https://wetransfer.com/

 

 

Moreover, Please fill the Leap application form- MSF WaCA and make sure you send the above required documents to the following email address:  learning.waca@waca.msf.org

 

Before submitting your application, you must discuss it with your HRCO (for those in the field) or your Pool Manager (for those between missions); as well as with your direct line manager for information (field or HQ level).

 

For the minimum English language level requirements, please see the LEAP English Language Guide. Level C1 in English is mandatory, and no exception will be allowed by the university, please note that you will need to get the required scores in the test to be able to enroll in the university.

 

Please, kindly read also the “WaCA Conditions and Student Commitment Guidance Document” here, to be aware of the commitment required. In case you are given a seat, please be aware that this document will have to be signed by you (the candidate) and your HRCO and line manager (or your pool manager if you are between missions).

 

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

 

There are two phases in the selection process: an internal MSF process (in end of August/ early September 2023) and then one at the University of Manchester / Liverpool (October 2023). If you are selected by MSF, you will be informed and then invited to apply directly to the University of Manchester, who will make the final decision on your application.

 

All applicants will be informed of the outcome of the internal MSF selection process at the end of September.


How will we prioritise applicants?

Candidates will be selected based on their potential, motivation and relevant experience, as reflected in their applications. These will be assessed by a selection committee of MSF representatives.

There will be a limited number of places each year. 



Practical information for those managing LEAP students 

If you are an HRCo or line manager responsible for the management of LEAP students, please review the HR Information section of the LEAP website for further information on the expected study time commitment for LEAP students and what resources the mission/HQ will need to provide. Please, read also the “WaCA Conditions and Student Commitment Guidance Document” here.



Funding

The course fees (university tuition) are covered by MSF UK. Attendance costs for staff (visas, accommodation, travel, per diem, etc) will be fully covered by WaCA. 

Students who start on the course during this time will continue to have their tuition fees supported.



Contact details


For general information on LEAP, please see the internal MSF LEAP website, www.msfleap.org. or contact LEAP@london.msf.org.

 


For questions about your application, please email to MSF WaCA HQ HR department: learning.waca@waca.msf.org. 



For questions about academic content or your eligibility, please contact the University of Manchester: leapmsf@manchester.ac.uk