Risk and Disaster Science MSc

In this science-led programme, you will learn how to assess and quantify risk, reduce disaster risks and manage emergencies.

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Application deadline

If you're considering applying for September 2025 entry, please make sure your application is received by 4 April (for students who require visas) and 29 August (for students who do not need a visa).

Apply now

Teaching and Learning

Learn from world-class researchers and professionals delivering the programme through lectures, class discussions, problem-solving exercises, practicals, field trips, directed reading, student-led dialogue and a practitioner-led real-time disaster scenario event.
Assessment involves individual and group presentations, coursework, written examinations, and a research project.

Get in touch

UCL RDR Risk and Disaster Science MSc Programme Leader
Dr Bayes Ahmed

UCL RDR postgraduate admissions enquiries
email: rdr-education@ucl.ac.uk

Programme themes

Science of Earth and Space Hazards

Analyse different hazard risks: seismicity, epidemics, conflict and climate
Scenarios and case studies drawn globally provide a breadth of experience

Statistical and Modelling Tools

Statistical treatment of risk
Bring together data and theory

Understanding Vulnerability

From fragility curves describing damage to buildings to social vulnerability of individuals and society

Quantifying Risk

What is risk and how do we measure it?
Components of risk: exposure, hazard, vulnerability

Multidisciplinary Holistic Approaches

Integrating scientific knowledge into disaster risk reduction research, policy and practice
Communicating with stakeholders

Managing Disaster

How to apply plans to manage real emergencies

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More information

For more details about this programme, including entry requirements, fees and how to apply, visit the UCL prospectus page.

Careers

Whether you wish to start a new career in risk and disaster reduction or you already have experience we are here to support you. With the Risk and Disaster Science MSc, you will have excellent academic credibility coupled with practical and analytical skills. We run an annual Careers Discovery Fair which offers expert and targeted advice, and hosts stalls from a range of employers and headhunters in the field of risk and disaster reduction. Our alumni are highly sought-after in the following sectors: insurance, catastrophe modelling, risk management, public policy, humanitarian development, NGOs, business continuity, government, emergency services, consultancy, and academia.

Where do our graduates go?

Willis Towers Watson
Start Network
Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust
RenaissanceRe Syndicate Management
OdysseyRe
Convex Insurance
The World Bank

Meet our students

Ben chose the Risk and Disaster Science MSc after a degree in sociology and politics. Find out why he chose to study at UCL RDR.