Graduate Certificate in Disaster Risk and Resilience

On successful completion of the program students will have:

1. Applied a range of analytical and problem-solving skills to deal with issues in the practice of disaster risk reduction and management, accommodating the precepts of the United Nations Frameworks including the UN Declaration of Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
2. Analysed legislative, policy and procedural influences upon disaster risk reduction actions in the context of public, private and not-for-profit sector organisations, accommodating the precepts of the United Nations Frameworks.
3. Developed resilient organisational strategies in the context of disaster risk reduction and management, accommodating the precepts of the United Nations Frameworks. Critically reviewed the level of participation of Indigenous peoples, how Indigenous-led initiatives have contributed, and what more needs to be done.
4. Critically analysed the level of engagement with Indigenous peoples and cultures, in accordance with Australian standards, legislative requirements, and best practices.

Study a Graduate Certificate in Disaster Risk and Resilience at the University of Newcastle and equip yourself with essential skills and knowledge to excel in the dynamic field of disaster risk reduction and management.

Emerge as a practitioner who can navigate the intricacies of disaster risk reduction. Focus on disaster management and pre-disaster preparedness, while upholding the principles outlined by current international frameworks.

This specialised program is certified by CIFAL Newcastle and aligned to United Nations Institute for Training in Research (UNITAR) designed for graduates who wish to specialise in one key learning area only. Graduates will be prepared to make a difference across a range of industries to shape and inspire future generations.

Recommended study pattern

Students will complete the following core courses to fulfil the requirements of the program.

Core Courses:

• Disaster Risk and Resilience Principles
• Community-led Resilience and Leadership
• Disaster Resilience Economics and Business Resilience
• Disaster Governance and International Frameworks.

Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.

Indicative total fee $17,445

The amount shown here is indicative for an Australian citizen studying full-time, which is typically 8 subjects per year.

Fees may vary depending on:

• the subjects you choose
• credit from previous work experience
• your eligibility for government funding loans or subsidies such as HECS-HELP or a Commonwealth supported place.

To learn more, go to Fees or contact a student advisor.

The University of Newcastle is dedicated to outstanding education and research. Their degrees are shaped around global learning, work placements and entrepreneurial opportunities. The university is known as a champion of innovative approaches, striving for a dynamic teaching culture that delivers world-class outcomes. Welcoming students from diverse backgrounds, they focus on equity and developing the next generation of socially-oriented leaders.

Learn more about Newcastle University.

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QS World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

17

Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

18

Admission to the program is open to those who have successfully completed an:

• AQF 6 (Associate Degree or Advanced Diploma) or higher, or
• AQF 5 (Diploma) award with at least five years of full time equivalent relevant industry experience.

*Work experience is evidenced by a detailed CV and Statements of Service.

All Applicants must demonstrate that they meet the University’s English proficiency requirement:

• IELTS overall minimum - 6.5
• IELTS section minimum - 6.0.

If you wish to apply for credit for studies completed at another institution, or if you are changing programs within the University and wish to transfer your credit to the new program, visit the University's credit website for more information on applying for credit.