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About the Programme
The Disaster Risk Management and Resilience programme is designed to strengthen the Caribbean’s capacity to manage natural hazards and build resilience. It equips participants with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute effectively to disaster risk reduction, preparedness, response, and recovery.
The programme provides foundational knowledge in disaster risk management systems, resilience, contingency planning, community-based resilience, and communication. The Graduate Diploma builds on this foundation by incorporating advanced competencies, including research skills, leadership, and emergency operations.
Entry Requirements
Applicants should:
- Hold at least an undergraduate degree (minimum Lower Second Class Honours or equivalent) in a related discipline
- Relevant professional or community-based experience may be considered for entry
Who is this programme for?
The programme targets:
- Practitioners in national disaster management systems
- Civil society and community-based organizations
- Private sector professionals with disaster risk or resilience responsibilities
- Individuals seeking to enter or advance in the field of disaster risk management
The Certificate is aimed at entry-level practitioners, while the Diploma is suited to those in more advanced or leadership roles.
Duration of Programme
Graduate Certificate: Two semesters
Graduate Diploma: Four semesters
Programme Structure
The programme is offered at two levels:
Graduate Certificate (12 credits)
Four core courses, including:
- Disaster Risk Reduction – Building Resilience
- Emergency Operations Management
- Community-based Disaster Resilience
- Communication Planning and Media Relations for Disaster Risk Reduction
Graduate Diploma (24 credits)
Includes all Certificate courses plus additional courses such as:
- Research Skills and Tools (including GIS)
- Risk Information and Communication
- Leadership and Management in Emergencies and Crises
- Emergency Operations: Management and Health Aspects
Delivery Mode
Fully online
Assessment
Assessment combines both formative and summative approaches, including continuous evaluation through assignments, projects, and practical exercises aimed at developing applied competencies.
Course of Study
