The Postgraduate Diploma in Disaster Risk Management and Development is an NZQF Level 8 postgraduate qualification worth 120 points. It is designed for graduates and professionals who want to build specialist expertise in emergency management, disaster risk reduction, humanitarian response, climate adaptation, and community resilience.

The programme aligns with international and national best practices and integrates disaster risk management with sustainable development principles. It also provides an excellent pathway to the Master of Disaster Risk Management and Development.

Why Study the Postgraduate Diploma in Disaster Risk Management and Development at AUT?

• Gain specialist expertise in disaster risk reduction and emergency management.
• Study a programme aligned with international disaster risk management frameworks.
• Develop practical knowledge in humanitarian response, disaster recovery, and resilience building.
• Learn from experienced academics and professionals in disaster management.
• Flexible learning format designed for working professionals.
• Build expertise in climate change adaptation and sustainable development.
• Prepare for leadership roles in government agencies, NGOs, humanitarian organisations, and international development.
• Progress directly to the Master of Disaster Risk Management and Development.

Programme Structure

Students complete 120 points comprising core and elective courses.

Core Courses

• EMGT806 – Emergency and Disaster Risk Communication (15 points)
• EMGT807 – Environmental Change and Humanitarian Action (15 points)
• EMGT808 – Disasters and Development (15 points)
• EMGT809 – Building Community Resilience (15 points)

Elective Courses

Students complete approved elective courses to reach the required 120 points. Elective options may include areas such as:

• Public Health
• Global Health
• Advanced Epidemiology
• Leadership and Management
• M?ori Development
• Digital Transformation
• Environment, Hazards and Society
• Public Health Programme Management
• Trauma and Community Recovery

Subjects / Topics Covered

Students study topics including:

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

Disciplines / Specialisations Offered

Students develop expertise in:

• Disaster Risk Management
• Emergency Management
• Humanitarian Assistance
• Community Resilience
• Climate Change Adaptation
• Sustainable Development
• Environmental Risk Management
• Public Health and Resilience
• Disaster Recovery
• Risk Communication

Programme Highlights

• NZQF Level 8 postgraduate qualification.
• 120-point professional programme.
• Flexible blended-learning delivery.
• Strong emphasis on disaster risk reduction and sustainable development.
• Internationally relevant curriculum.
• Practical learning using real-world disaster case studies.
• Pathway to the Master of Disaster Risk Management and Development.
• Suitable for professionals working in emergency management and humanitarian sectors.

Career Outcomes

Graduates may pursue careers as:

• Disaster Risk Management Advisor
• Emergency Management Officer
• Humanitarian Programme Coordinator
• Community Resilience Advisor
• Disaster Recovery Manager
• Emergency Planning Officer
• Climate Resilience Specialist
• Civil Defence Advisor
• NGO Programme Manager
• International Development Officer
• Government Policy Advisor
• Risk Reduction Consultant

Graduates commonly work in:

• Emergency management agencies
• Government ministries
• Civil defence organisations
• International organisations
• Humanitarian NGOs
• Community development agencies
• Climate resilience programmes

Visa Requirements

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

Typical requirements include:

• Offer of Place from AUT.
• Valid passport.
• Payment of tuition fees (where applicable).
• Evidence of sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses.
• Proof of English language proficiency.
• Medical examination and chest X-ray (if required).
• Police clearance certificate (if applicable).
• Approved medical and travel insurance.
• Compliance with Immigration New Zealand student visa conditions.

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• Programme Code: AK1015.
• Qualification Level: NZQF Level 8.
• Credits: 120 points.
• Duration: 1 year full-time (part-time available).
• Intakes: 22 February 2027 and 12 July 2027.
• Delivered through Flexible Learning, combining block teaching on campus with online learning.
• Applicants must provide evidence of postgraduate study capability and current professional practice.
• Additional prerequisite courses may be required for some applicants.
• The programme provides a direct academic pathway to the Master of Disaster Risk Management and Development.