Disaster and Emergency Management York University

Overview

The Disaster and Emergency Management programme at York University provides students with the advanced competencies required to manage local, national, and international emergencies. This master level degree is the only graduate programme of its kind in Ontario, offering a unique academic environment for aspiring crisis leaders. Students engage with complex theoretical frameworks and practical applications to reduce the negative impacts of disasters.

The curriculum is designed to be flexible, catering to both full-time and part-time learners who wish to pursue specific areas of interest within the field. By synthesising large amounts of complex information, participants learn to make sound decisions in challenging and high-pressure circumstances.

Why Disaster and Emergency Management at York University?

York University offers one of only two such graduate programmes in Canada, providing a rare opportunity for specialised study. Students learn from an impressive group of academics with diverse expertise in environmental risks, natural hazards, and business continuity planning. The faculty includes experts in public health, humanitarian law, crisis management, and complex war emergencies.

The institution provides a robust support network through the Faculty of Graduate Studies, ensuring students have access to necessary academic resources. With a focus on both domestic and international contexts, the university prepares graduates to handle multifaceted risks in an increasingly volatile world. The programme's reputation for excellence makes it a premier choice for professionals in the field.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: CAD 6275 per semester
• National fee: CAD 1436 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The programme offers two distinct pathways: a major research paper or a course-work only option. Modules may include:

• Environmental Risks and Management
• Natural Hazards
• Business Continuity Planning
• Public Health
• Humanitarian Law
• Crisis Management
• War and Complex Emergencies
• Disaster and Emergency Management

Careers with Disaster and Emergency Management

Graduates are equipped for leadership roles in various sectors dedicated to public safety and disaster resilience. The skills acquired during the programme are highly applicable to positions in government agencies, non-governmental organisations, and private sector business continuity departments. Professionals often find opportunities in emergency planning, policy development, and international humanitarian aid.

The programme focuses on developing the ability to respond to and recover from emergencies, making graduates valuable assets to organisations involved in risk mitigation. By mastering the complexities of disaster management, alumni are prepared to contribute to the development of theory and practice that helps communities worldwide. The degree provides a strong foundation for those seeking to advance their careers in crisis response and strategic planning.