MA/MSc Programmes in Risk (taught)
These unique taught Masters programmes have been designed to provide critical training in core methodologies and to offer in-depth analysis in one element of contemporary risk. Delivered by world-leading experts and led jointly out of Durham’s Geography Department and the Institute of Hazard, Risk and Resilience, the Masters Programmes in Risk are targeted at a wide range of potential students, including professionals seeking training for career advancement and those wishing to pursue research degrees. Students take three core modules, a suite of specialised modules determined by the route they are following and a research dissertation aimed at providing an in-depth understanding of a single topic in risk. It is possible that the dissertation may be undertaken as a vocational project in an industrial or public sector setting. In addition to standard course teaching the Institute organises a series of seminars, given by both Durham and external staff, exposing students to current thinking in risk research as a means of training students in the generic skills of interpreting, criticising and synthesising emerging research.
One of the ironies of the 20th Century is that despite phenomenal technological progress most people still live with the acute and chronic consequences of hazard and risk. From age-old hazards such as floods, earthquakes or volcanoes, to newer and more pervasive risks of security, technology and finance, this new portfolio of risk requires that we pioneer new ways of learning about risk, risk sharing and risk forecasting. These are the challenges being addressed by the Institute of Hazard, Risk and Resilience and researchers in the Department of Geography and across the University. We have one core philosophy: to make a difference. In doing this we must move beyond what we currently do, challenging the core assumptions – scientific, economic and social – about how we live with hazard and risk.
For more information on the course and how to apply please see its website.