Master of 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 with Indigenous peoples and how Indigenous-led collaboration and initiatives can contribute to disaster resilience.
4. Critically analysed relevant national and international standards, and legislative requirements around engagement with Indigenous peoples and cultures, with the aim of embodying best cultural practices.
5. Conducted and employed research skills appropriate to a disaster risk and resilience context.

Organisations worldwide value championing disaster resilience. They save lives and revenue while gaining a competitive advantage. By becoming more resilient, disaster risks can be mitigated and reduced. 

The Master of Disaster Risk and Resilience from the University of Newcastle equips graduates from diverse backgrounds with resilience and sustainable development skills. You'll learn to prevent disasters and handle extreme events. By applying these principles, you will emerge stronger and better prepared for the future. If your role involves identifying, mitigating, and managing business, safety, community, or environmental risks, this program is for you. It will put you at the forefront of your field, preparing you for challenging situations. 

Receive UN co-certification through courses certified by CIFAL Newcastle, in accordance with the requirements of the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR). Benefit from flexible study options with our advanced online learning system. Study anytime, anywhere, balancing work, life, and study. 

Recommended study pattern

Program requirements and the volume of learning for the Master of Disaster Risk and Resilience are dependent on the student's prior academic qualifications.

For entry with a 3 year Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7) or with an AQF 6 (Associate degree) award with at least one year of relevant industry experience, the volume of learning is 160 units:

• 60 units of Core courses
• 90 units of Directed courses
• 10 units of Electives.

For entry with an AQF Level 8 level Qualification (Honours degree, Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma) or with an AQF 7 award with at least one year of relevant industry experience, the volume of learning is 120 units:

• 60 units of Core courses
• 50 units of Directed courses
• 10 units of Electives.

For entry with an AQF Level 9 level Qualification (Masters), or higher level award, or with an AQF 8 award with at least one year of relevant industry experience, or with an AQF 7 award with at least five years of relevant industry experience, the volume of learning is 80 units:

• 60 units of Core courses
• 10 units of Directed courses
• 10 units of Electives.

Award requirements

Program requirements and the volume of learning for the Master of Disaster Risk and Resilience are dependent on the student's prior academic qualifications.

For entry with a 3 year Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7) or with an AQF 6 (Associate degree) award with at least one year of relevant industry experience, the volume of learning is 160 units:

• 60 units of Core courses
• 90 units of Directed courses
• 10 units of Electives.

For entry with an AQF Level 8 level Qualification (Honours degree, Graduate Certificate or Graduate Diploma) or with an AQF 7 award with at least one year of relevant industry experience, the volume of learning is 120 units:

• 60 units of Core courses
• 50 units of Directed courses
• 10 units of Electives.

For entry with an AQF Level 9 level Qualification (Masters), or higher level award, or with an AQF 8 award with at least one year of relevant industry experience, or with an AQF 7 award with at least five years of relevant industry experience, the volume of learning is 80 units:

• 60 units of Core courses
• 10 units of Directed courses
• 10 units of Electives.

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

Indicative total fee $61,620

The amounts shown here are 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 2026, within Australia:

16

Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2026, within Australia:

19

Entry and structural progression within the Master of Disaster Risk and Resilience is outlined below.

Students who have completed an:

• AQF 7 (Bachelors) or have an AQF 6 (Associate degree or Advanced Diploma) award with at least one year of relevant industry experience, will be required to complete 160 units of courses.
• AQF 8 (Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma or Honours degree) or have an AQF 7 award with at least one year of relevant industry experience, can complete the 120 unit pathway.
• AQF 9 (Masters) or higher award, or have an AQF 8 award with at least one year of relevant industry experience, or have an AQF 7 award with at least five years of relevant industry experience can complete the 80 unit pathway.

Students who have commenced the Graduate Certificate of Disaster Risk and Resilience are eligible to transfer to the Master of Disaster Risk and Resilience upon successful completion of 75% of their Graduate Certificate coursework.

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.