Preamble
Regulations for the Master of Science (MSc) in Disaster Risk and Livelihood Studies shall apply subject to provisions for both the University and Faculty General Academic Regulations. Generally, Faculty Regulations shall normally take precedence over specific degree or diploma special regulations where both are read together.

This programme offers a wide range of courses based on current issues in Disaster Risk Reduction and Livelihoods, which are critical in managing hazards and various forms of vulnerability which, if not addressed, would result in reversal of gains made in development. It reflects the contemporary proactive approach to disaster risk management that focuses on prevention, mitigation and preparedness, as opposed to the outdated reactive approach of focusing solely on emergency response. The modules of this programme range from Disaster Management Theories to some practical approaches on how to manage disaster risk for community resilience, and sustainable human development.

Programme Justification
The magnitude, frequency and intensity of hazards has been increasing in the last two decades, and this is compounded by the risk drivers like climate change, environmental degradation, urbanization, conflict, etc. Such hazards affect all sectors of the economy and every aspect of human development. In order to address the myriad challenges that are brought about by shocks and other events that disrupt normal functioning of society, there is need to develop a critical mass of experts who can steer disaster management initiatives at all relevant levels to work towards increased community resilience. The programme also offers an opportunity for past and existing WUA students who pursued or are pursuing the Bachelors Degree in Sociology and Gender Development Studies to advance their studies in higher level studies (see attached the Needs Assessment Report).

Programme Aim
To provide students with practical and theoretical skills, knowledge and management expertise to deal with, as well as inform policy and strategies on managing disaster risk to humans, the environment and livelihoods emanating from current and future natural, technological, biological and human-made crises, emergencies and disasters locally and internationally.

Programme Objectives
The overall objectives of the programme are to:

• Provide participants with opportunities to acquire extended and specialised knowledge in disaster risk and livelihoods in their theoretical as well as in their practical dimensions;
• Enhance participants’ knowledge of disaster risk in relation to cross-cultural issues raised by an appreciation of the relationship between disasters, race and class in various contexts;
• Facilitate learning and personal educational development for livelihood centred disaster research, policy and programme design and implementation; and institution management;
• Foster both an international and an interdisciplinary approach to the study of disasters and livelihoods; and
• Promote critical thinking on the effective practical application of concepts and principles underlying international and national policies on disaster risk management and livelihoods.

Intended Learning Outcomes
At the end of the programme, students should be able to:

• utilize skills gained in a wide range of sectors that are affected by disasters which will enhance their employability
• demonstrate knowledge and new approaches to risk management and humanitarian action which will enhance their performance in the ever-changing operational environment of disaster risk
• Demonstrate knowledge and skills to take up higher level responsibilities as they critically evaluate and apply key elements of disaster mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery, including the ability to conduct assessments of hazards, risks, vulnerability and capacity.
• demonstrate knowledge on approaches that are used locally, regionally and internationally to reduce and manage hazard risk; and pursue PhD studies.

Career Opportunities
Almost all sectors are affected by hazards risk in varying degrees, and this makes students studying towards the MSc in Disaster Risk Management get opportunities in sectors like Agriculture, Public Health, Mining, Development sector (NGOs, UN agencies, Local Authorities), the private sector (e.g. Business Continuity), Integrated Water Resources Management, Security (Police, Defence, etc), Medical field (e.g. Epidemiology). Students who successfully complete this programme can also join the growing pool of academicians and researchers in Disaster Management Studies

Entry Requirements
Subject to provisions of the University and Faculty General Academic Regulations for admission, the following entry requirements shall apply:

• A Bachelors’ degree in Geography, Sociology, Economics, Law, Political Science, Education, Social Work, Psychology, Development Studies from a recognised University or any other relevant field with a minimum aggregate of 2.2.
• Employment in the government, Non-Governmental Organisations, or any other civil society organisation in the area of gender policy and women’s rights is an added advantage.
• At least two years of professional experience relevant to the programme.
• Applicants must have a good written command of English – the working language of the course.
• A high competence and comfort with computer and Internet use.

Duration of the Programme
This programme will be offered through weekend classes, evening classes, and open distance learning. It shall take one and a half years to complete. The entire Master’s degree shall consist of 8 core courses (offered in two batches of 4 courses each semester) and a dissertation.

Coursework Assessment
Students will be assessed using assignments (both group and individual) which may be presented in written or class presentation form. The coursework assessment will contribute 30% of the student’s overall mark, while the examination makes up the remaining 70%.

Admission to Examinations
For admission to the examinations, a candidate must:

• Have registered as a student of Women’s University in Africa in accordance with the General Academic Regulations for diplomas and certificates.
• Have successfully completed the approved courses of study to the satisfaction of` the university, including submission and attaining a pass (50% and above) in coursework for individual courses.

Teaching and Learning Strategies
The Msc.DRM degree programme shall be taught using the conventional and innovative methods including lecture and tutorial sessions, educational tours, simulations, individual and group research, seminar presentations and application of e-learning tools. As much as possible, the teaching of the courses shall be student-centred, where candidates shall play a major role in their learning process. The overall aim shall be to roll out a group of autonomous, employable, competent industrial employees, entrepreneurs, academicians and researchers.