The programme is suitable for graduates, emergency management professionals, humanitarian workers, development practitioners, public health professionals, local government staff, and others seeking advanced expertise in disaster risk reduction, resilience building, emergency management, and sustainable development.

Students combine coursework with an independent research project, enabling them to investigate a disaster management issue relevant to their professional interests.

Why Study the Master of Disaster Risk Management and Development at AUT?

• Study one of New Zealand's specialist master's programmes in disaster risk management.
• Learn contemporary approaches to disaster preparedness, mitigation, response and recovery.
• Develop expertise in climate change adaptation and community resilience.
• Gain multidisciplinary knowledge combining public health, environmental science, emergency management and sustainable development.
• Undertake an independent research project addressing real-world disaster challenges.
• Flexible learning designed for working professionals.
• Learn from experienced academics and emergency management practitioners.
• Prepare for leadership positions within government, NGOs, humanitarian organisations and international agencies.

Programme Structure

Students complete 180 points, consisting of core papers, research methodology, electives, and a research project.

Core Courses

Students complete:

• EMGT806 – Emergency and Disaster Risk Communication
• EMGT808 – Disasters and Development
• EMGT807 – Environmental Change and Humanitarian Action
• EMGT809 – Building Community Resilience

Research Methodology

Students complete one approved research methods course, such as:

• HEAL811 – Research Design and Methods
• PUBH810 – Pacific Health Research and Design
• MAOH801 – M?ori Health Research Practice
• Or another approved methodology paper.

Elective Courses

Students complete one to three approved electives, including options such as:

• Social Epidemiology
• Digital Transformation and Change Management
• Leadership and Management
• M?ori Development
• Principles of Public Health
• Holistic Healing from Trauma
• Advanced Epidemiology
• Public Health Programme Management
• Global Health
• Public Health Policy and Systems

Research Project

Students complete an independent research project focused on a disaster risk management or development issue relevant to their interests.

Subjects / Topics Covered

Students develop expertise in:

• Disaster Risk Reduction
• Emergency Management
• Disaster Communication
• Community Resilience
• Sustainable Development
• Climate Change Adaptation
• Humanitarian Action
• Disaster Recovery
• Emergency Planning
• Public Health
• Environmental Change
• Leadership
• Research Methods
• Risk Assessment
• Policy Development

Disciplines / Areas of Specialisation

The programme is multidisciplinary and integrates:

• Disaster Risk Management
• Emergency Management
• Sustainable Development
• Humanitarian Assistance
• Community Development
• Climate Change Adaptation
• Public Health
• Environmental Management
• Policy and Governance
• Research

Programme Highlights

• NZQF Level 9 Master's qualification.
• 180-point postgraduate programme.
• Flexible blended learning delivery.
• Designed for both recent graduates and experienced professionals.
• Strong emphasis on sustainable development and disaster resilience.
• Research-focused curriculum addressing real-world disaster management challenges.
• Industry relevance with links to emergency management agencies and humanitarian organisations.
• Opportunity to tailor learning through electives and an applied research project.

Career Outcomes

Graduates may pursue careers including:

• Disaster Risk Management Advisor
• Emergency Management Officer
• Humanitarian Programme Manager
• Disaster Recovery Coordinator
• Community Resilience Advisor
• Climate Change Adaptation Specialist
• Emergency Planning Consultant
• Risk and Resilience Manager
• Policy Advisor
• Civil Defence Planner
• Development Programme Manager
• Researcher

Graduates work with organisations such as:

• National and local government agencies
• Emergency management agencies
• Civil defence organisations
• International humanitarian organisations
• United Nations agencies
• Non-government organisations (NGOs)
• Community development organisations
• Research institutions
• International development agencies

Visa Requirements

International students studying full-time generally require a New Zealand Student Visa.

Applicants typically need:

• An Offer of Place from AUT.
• A valid passport.
• Evidence of sufficient funds for tuition fees and living expenses.
• Proof of English language proficiency.
• Medical examination and chest X-ray (if required).
• Police clearance certificate (where applicable).
• Approved medical and travel insurance.

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• Programme Code: AK3930.
• Qualification Level: NZQF Level 9.
• Credits: 180 points.
• Duration: 1.5 years full-time.
• Campus: AUT South Campus.
• Delivery: Flexible learning with block courses and online study.
• Intakes: 22 February 2027 and 12 July 2027.
• Includes a substantial independent research project.
• Designed to align with international disaster risk reduction and sustainable development frameworks.