Planning and Management of Natural Hazards

The Bachelor of Planning and Management of Natural Hazards at the University of New England (UNE) offers students a comprehensive education in understanding, assessing, and managing natural hazards and disasters. This program is designed to equip graduates with the essential knowledge and practical skills necessary to address the increasing challenges posed by natural hazards such as floods, bushfires, earthquakes, and storms. Throughout the course, students will explore core concepts in environmental planning, disaster management, risk assessment, and sustainable development, all within the context of safeguarding communities and mitigating the impacts of natural disasters. The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with hands-on practical experiences, including case studies, fieldwork, and simulation exercises, enabling students to develop operational capabilities in emergency preparedness, response coordination, and recovery planning. Students will learn to analyze hazard data, evaluate vulnerabilities, and design strategies for resilient infrastructure and community planning. The program emphasizes the importance of integrated approaches, considering social, economic, and environmental dimensions to effectively manage natural risks in a changing climate. Specializations may include disaster risk reduction, urban planning for resilience, and environmental management. Graduates of this program will be well-prepared for careers in government agencies, environmental consultancy firms, emergency services, and non-governmental organizations involved in disaster management, urban planning, and environmental conservation. The University of New England’s emphasis on practical skills, research, and community engagement ensures that students graduate with a thorough understanding of how to make communities safer and more sustainable in the face of natural hazards. This program fosters a multidisciplinary perspective essential for addressing complex natural hazards and contributing to resilient, sustainable development across regions.

The Planning and Management of Natural Hazards program at the University of New England is designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills to assess, prepare for, and respond to natural hazards such as floods, bushfires, cyclones, and earthquakes. This interdisciplinary program integrates principles from environmental science, urban planning, disaster management, and public policy to provide a holistic understanding of how natural hazards impact communities and the environment. Students will explore the scientific basis of natural hazards, including their causes, dynamics, and potential impacts, while also learning about risk assessment, mitigation strategies, and emergency response planning. The curriculum emphasizes sustainable and resilient development, encouraging students to evaluate land-use planning, infrastructure design, and community engagement to reduce vulnerability and enhance adaptive capacity. Through a combination of theoretical coursework, case studies, and practical projects, students will develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities essential for careers in government agencies, non-governmental organizations, consulting firms, and research institutions involved in disaster risk management. The program also focuses on the role of policy, governance, and communication in shaping effective hazard management strategies. Students will have opportunities to participate in fieldwork and internships, gaining real-world experience in developing and implementing hazard management plans. The program aims to produce graduates who are capable of designing innovative solutions for minimizing risks and building safer, more resilient communities in the face of a changing climate and increasing natural threats. Graduates will be well-prepared to contribute to multidisciplinary teams working at local, national, and international levels to enhance disaster preparedness and response efforts.

• An AQF Level 7 Bachelor degree from a Recognized university in a related field of Analysis
• Or Entry through an articulation Application
• Meet Englishlanguage requirements

Funding options for the Planning and Management of Natural Hazards program at the University of New England (UNE) include a range of scholarships, government loans, and financial aid opportunities tailored to support domestic and international students. Students are encouraged to explore federal and state government loan schemes, such as the Australian Government's Higher Education Loan Program (HELP), which provides financial assistance by allowing eligible students to defer their tuition fees until after graduation. Additionally, UNE offers several scholarships targeted towards students undertaking degrees related to environmental science, disaster management, and planning disciplines, including merit-based and need-based awards. For example, the UNE Scholarships Program includes various grants specifically designed to support students enrolled in planning and environmental management courses, which may help offset tuition costs and related expenses. International students can look into UNE's international scholarship options, which often aim to promote diversity and support students from diverse backgrounds. Students are also encouraged to seek external funding opportunities through government agencies, industry bodies, and philanthropic foundations that support research and projects in natural hazards and disaster resilience. Payment plans allowing deferred tuition fees or installment payments may also be available through UNE's student financial services, providing flexible options for managing education costs. Furthermore, students involved in research components of their studies might be eligible for research grants and stipends that support fieldwork and project-related expenses. International students should consider student exchange or partnership programs that may offer financial benefits or specific bursaries. UNE’s commitment to accessible education ensures that numerous financial resources are available to reduce economic barriers for students pursuing expertise in natural hazard planning and management. Overall, prospective students are advised to consult the UNE Financial Services and Scholarships Offices for personalized guidance and application procedures to maximize available funding opportunities.

The Bachelor of Planning and Management of Natural Hazards at the University of New England (UNE) is designed to provide students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills necessary for addressing the complex challenges posed by natural hazards. This program emphasizes understanding the science behind natural disasters, including earthquakes, floods, cyclones, and bushfires, and explores effective management strategies to mitigate their impacts on communities and the environment. The curriculum integrates a multidisciplinary approach, combining elements of geography, environmental science, urban planning, disaster risk management, and public policy, aiming to equip graduates with the ability to develop resilient and sustainable solutions.

Students will engage with core subjects such as hazard assessment, risk analysis, emergency planning, community engagement, and disaster response coordination. The program also covers policy development, land use planning, and the social and economic aspects of natural hazard mitigation. Through practical workshops, fieldwork, case studies, and industry placements, students gain hands-on experience and a realistic understanding of the complexities involved in managing natural disasters. UNE's strong connections with government agencies, emergency services, environmental organizations, and planning authorities offer valuable networking and employment opportunities after graduation.

The program is suitable for individuals aiming to pursue careers in emergency management, urban and regional planning, environmental consultancy, government agencies, or non-governmental organizations involved in disaster mitigation. Graduates will be prepared to work in roles that require expert knowledge of hazard management, policy development, and community resilience building. The degree also serves as a pathway to further postgraduate study in disaster management, environmental planning, or related fields. Overall, the program combines academic excellence with practical application, addressing the pressing need for skilled professionals dedicated to managing natural hazards and protecting society from their impacts.