The MA in Disaster and Emergency Management (MADEM) program is a two-year interdisciplinary degree dedicated to educating both aspiring and existing disaster and emergency management professionals. The program explores the theoretical foundations of disaster and emergency management as a growing field of practice and study. Integral to the design of the MA in Disaster and Emergency Management program is the understanding that disasters are more than hazards: rather they are a product of the inter-relationship and mutual construction of the environmental, social, economic, and political spheres. This approach supports the notion that disaster and emergency management processes and practices can and should contribute to risk reduction, community resilience and sustainable communities. The program design incorporates both individual and team-based learning strategies, and in the first year, offers students an applied skills course. In the second year of studies students conduct an applied research project on a topic of personal interest.
The MA in Disaster and Emergency Management program also offers a one year Graduate Diploma in Disaster and Emergency Management.
Who it’s for
The MA in Disaster and Emergency Management is designed for existing and aspiring disaster management and emergency services professionals. Students taking this program can select from one of two options - the Practitioner Stream (offered in the Spring), and the General Stream (offered in the Fall). Students require a degree and/or experience in disaster and emergency management. All applications are assessed based on an integrated and consolidated examination of academic credentials, work experience and personal experience. Applicants who do not have the formal academic education to qualify for admission may be assessed on the basis of both their formal education and their informal learning, in accordance with the Flexible Admission Policy. Applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis.
MA in Disaster and Emergency Management program streams:
Practitioner Stream (Spring start date)
This stream is for those applicants who have at least five or more years of management experience in the disaster and emergency management field. Students without an undergraduate degree will be assessed under the flexible admission policy. Such individuals include local, provincial or federal government emergency response program planners and managers, Canadian military personnel, RCMP and municipal police officers, ambulance, paramedic and health sector professionals, firefighters, risk management and business continuity professionals, insurance and disaster recovery professionals, and international humanitarian assistance professionals.
General Stream (Fall start date)
This stream is geared to those with a relevant undergraduate degree who aspire to work in the field, but who have less than five years of relevant disaster or emergency management experience.
