POST GRADUATE PROGRAMS IN DISASTER MANAGEMENT

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

Preparatory Courses

ENG 091 Foundation Course in English Language
Provides an introduction to English vocabulary, language, writing and verbal skills. Contents: Anatomy and construction of sentences, Spelling, Summarizing, Comprehension, Common vocabulary, Elements of good writing, Speaking. 3 credits.
References:
Greenberg, K. I. and Rondmone, P. The Advancing Writer (Book 2). New York, Harper Collins.
Langan, J. College Writing. London, McGraw-Hill. 
Murphy, R. Intermediate English Grammar. Cambridge, Cambridge University Press.

CSC 093 Basic Course in Computing
Introduces students to the nature, operation, uses and potential of computer in organizations. Learning by practice is emphasized. Contents: Introduction to hardware and software technology, Word processing, Database management, Spreadsheets, Electronic communication. 1.5 credits.
References:
Norton, P. Introduction to Computers.
Rajaraman, V. Fundamentals of Computers. Prentice-Hall.

Foundation Courses

DMG 501 Introduction to Hazards and Disasters
Provides a basic overview of the various types of natural, human-induced and industrial hazards and their potential for causing disasters. The purpose is to familiarize students with the basic concepts of hazards, disasters and vulnerability. Contents: Natural hazards, Human-induced hazards, Industrial hazards, Distinction between hazard and disaster, Hazard vulnerability. 2 credits.
References: 
Hall, G. and Snedden, R. (1996) Natural Disasters: Factfinders. Bristol, Parragon.
Nizamuddin, K. (ed) (2001) Disaster in Bangladesh. Dhaka, DRTMC.
Pramanik, M.A.H. (1994) “Natural Disasters” in Rahman, A.A. et al (eds) Environment and Development in Bangladesh, Vol. 1. Dhaka, UPL.
Reazuddin, M. (1994) “Industry and Pollution Related Issues” in Rahman, A.A. et al (eds) Environment and Development in Bangladesh, Vol. 2. Dhaka, UPL.
Withers, J. (1988) Major Industrial Hazards: The Appraisal and Control. Aldershot (UK), Gower Technical Press.

DMG 502 Fundamentals of Disaster Management
Provides understanding of the general principles of management and their specific applications in the field of disaster management. The objective is to identify and examine the essential and fundamental elements of disaster preparedness, response and recovery within an inclusive management policy framework. Contents: General principles of management, Conceptual framework of disaster management, Basic concepts of preparedness, rescue, relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction, Inclusive approach to disaster management. 2 credits.
References:
ADB (1992) Disaster Mitigation in Asia and the Pacific. Manila, ADB.
Blakie, P. et al (1994) At Risk: Natural Hazards, People’s Vulnerability and Disasters. London, Routledge.
Carter, W.N. (1991) Disaster Management: A Disaster Manager’s Handbook. Manila, ADB.
IDNDR (2000a) Natural Disasters: Strategies for Mitigation and Disaster Response. Germany, IDNDR.
Rahman, M.S. (1993) Disaster Management Handbook for Bangladesh, Parts I-IV. Dhaka, BDPC and PACT.
Stoner, J.A.F. and Freeman, R.E. (2000) Management. New Delhi, Prentice-Hall.
Weihrich, H. and Koontz, H. (1993) Management: A Global Perspective. New York, McGraw Hill.

DMG 503 Organizational and Policy Context of Disaster Management
Reviews the roles of different actors such as the government, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and international funding agencies involved in disaster management. The purpose is to provide understanding of the organizational framework for defining policy and practice in this field. Contents: Role of the government, Role of NGOs, Role of international funding agencies, Cross-sectoral linkages, Policy formulation, Program and project implementation. 2 credits.
References:
Action Against Hunger UK (2001) NGO Initiative in Risk Reduction Case Study No. 14: Preparation for Flood-Related Disasters. London, Red Cross. 
InterWorks (1998) Model for National Disaster Management Structure, Preparedness Plan and Supporting Legislation. Madison, InterWorks.
Islam, S. (2003) Disaster Management Bureau: Vision and Activities towards National Preparation. Dhaka, DMB.
Matin, N. and Taher, M. (2001) “The Changing Emphasis of Disasters in Bangladesh NGOs”. Disasters, Vol. 25, No. 3.
DMB (2000) Disaster Management Standing Orders. Dhaka, DMB.

DMG 504 Research and Analytical Methods
Introduces the basic elements, processes and techniques of research utilized for description and analysis with special reference to disaster management. The aim is to develop research skills that can be applied in subsequent practice, independent study projects and dissertation writing. Contents: Research typologies, Basic statistical and sampling techniques, Survey techniques, Qualitative and quantitative research, Data analysis, PRA methods. 2 credits.
References:
Fink, A. (1995) How to Analyze Survey Data. London, Sage.
Moser, S.R. and Kalton, G. (1975) Survey Methods in Social Investigation. London, Heinemann.
Palm, R.I. (1990) Natural Hazards: An Integrative Framework for Research and Planning. Maryland, John Hopkins University Press.
Pratt, B. and Loizos, P. (1992) Choosing Research Methods. Oxford, Oxfam.
Robson, C. (1997) Real World Research: A Resource for Social Scientists and Practitioner-Researchers. Oxford, Blackwell.
Theis, J. and Grady, H. (1991) Participatory Rapid Appraisal (PRA) for Community Development. London, IIED

Core Courses

DMG 601 Disaster Response and Recovery Strategies
Provides knowledge on immediate and long-term aspects of management of the post-impact phase of a disaster. The aim is to generate understanding of specific actions that should be taken during the post-impact stage of a disaster to facilitate its effective management. Contents: Post-impact phase, Immediate rescue and relief needs, Long-term recovery, rehabilitation and reconstruction, Post-disaster trauma management. 3 credits.
References:
Auf der Heide, E. (1990) Disaster Response: Principles of Preparation and Co-ordination. St. Louis, CV Mosby.
Baker, J. and Zetter, R. (1995) Studies on Emergencies and Disaster Relief: Report no. 2. Uppsala, Nordiska Afrikainstitutet.
Friesema, P. (1979) Aftermath Communities after Natural Disasters. Beverly Hills, Sage.
Hodgson, R. and Whaites, A. (1993) “The Rehabilitation of Housing after Natural Disasters in Bangladesh” in Merriman, P.A. and Browitt C.W.A. (eds) Natural Disasters: Protecting Vulnerable Communities. London, Thomas Telford. 
Schreider, Tari (1998) Encyclopedia of Disaster Recovery, Security and Risk Management. New York, Crucible.

DMG 602 Disaster Preparedness and Vulnerability Reduction
Gives an overview of the range of strategies for preparedness in the pre-impact stage in disaster-prone areas and correspondingly reducing vulnerability of communities. The purpose is to instill awareness of the importance of disaster preparedness for damage prevention and vulnerability reduction, and associated risk reduction strategies such as insurance. Contents: Disaster preparedness planning, Specifications of preparedness requirements, Risk management strategies, Preventive and/or mitigating actions, Risk insurance. 3 credits.
References:
Cuny, F. (1988) Disaster Preparedness Recommendations for Bangladesh. Dhaka, UNDP.
Medina, J.C. (1992) “Community Awareness and Participation Programme in Disaster Preparedness and Rural Development” in Integrated Approach to Rural Development and Disaster Management in Bangladesh, Vol. II. Nagoya, UNCRD.
Nakabayashi, I. (1993) “Urban Planning Based on Disaster Risk Assessment” in Disaster Management in Metropolitan Areas for the 21st Century. Nagoya, UNCRD. 
Nirapad (1997) Network for Information, Response and Preparedness Activities on Disaster. Dhaka, Nirapad.
Office of the United Nations Disaster Relief Coordinator (1984) Preparedness Aspects: Disaster Prevention and Mitigation. New York, United Nations.
Shah, H.C. (2002) “Beyond Earthquake Loss Estimation Technologies: Strategies for Risk Reduction” in International Conference on Earthquake Loss Estimation and Risk Reduction, Bucharest. 

DMG 603 Assessment of Risk, Vulnerability and Capacity
Provides knowledge on methods of risk identification and hazard analysis and the development of disaster management capacity of a community or region. The objective is to develop skills to assess the risk associated with a variety of scenarios and resultant vulnerability. Contents: Risk identification, Risk perception, Hazard analysis and mapping, Vulnerability assessment. 3 credits.
References:
Aysan, Y. (1993) “Vulnerability Assessment” in Merriman, P. and Browitt, C.W.A. (eds) Natural Disasters: Protecting Vulnerable Communities. London, Thomas Telford.
Blakie, P. et al (1994) At Risk: Natural Hazards, People’s Vulnerability and Disasters. London, Routledge.
Organization of American States (1990) Disaster, Planning and Development: Managing Natural Hazards to Reduce Loss. Washington DC, USAID.
Petak, W.J. and Atkisson, A.A. (1982) Natural Hazard Risk Assessment and Public Policy: Anticipating the Unexpected. New York, Springer-Verlag.
Smith, K. (1992) Environmental Hazards: Assessing Risk and Reducing Disaster. London, Routledge.

DMG 604 Independent Study in Disaster Management I
This course is compulsory in Semester 01 of the diploma program. After mid-term examinations, each student will present a proposal for an independent study project in a subject area of disaster management and approved by relevant faculty. Students will utilize their knowledge gained from the various course deliberations at this program, supplemented by previous experience (if any) and future career and academic interests of the student. The study will be carried out independently outside class and supported by personal tutorials with faculty. Assessment will be based on an end of semester seminar presentation and written paper. 3 credits.
References:
Main Bibliography and independent literature review.

DMG 605 Independent Study in Disaster Management II
This course is compulsory in Semester 02 of the diploma program. After mid-term examinations, each student will present a proposal for an independent study project in a subject area of disaster management and approved by relevant faculty. Students will utilize their knowledge gained from the various course deliberations at this program, supplemented by previous experience (if any) and future career and academic interests of the student. The study will be carried out independently outside class and supported by personal tutorials with faculty. Assessment will be based on an end of semester seminar presentation and written paper. This study should build upon the previous independent study undertaken (DMG 604) at the certificate level and should therefore be more in-depth and reflect increased complexity of knowledge. 3 credits.
References:
Main Bibliography and independent literature review.

DMG 606 Dissertation Seminars
Offered only at the master’s level, consisting of a series of seminars on dissertation writing where students will discuss ideas, problems and research directions relating to their dissertation, supported by faculty lectures. The purpose is to supplement dissertation writing skills and techniques. Contents: Research methods, Literature review, Academic writing, Understanding and presenting arguments.
References:
Cash, P. (1977) How to Write a Research Paper Step by Step. New York, Monarch.
Preece, R. (1994) Starting Research: A Systematic Approach. Oxford, Bookmarque.
Robson, C. (1997) Real World Research: A Resource for Social Scientists and Practitioner-Researchers. Oxford, Blackwell.
Schenck, M.J. (1988) Read, Write, Revise: A Guide to Academic Writing. New York, St. Martin’s.
Walliman, N. (2001) Your Research Project: A Step-by-Step Guide for the First Time Researcher. Delhi, Sage.

Elective Courses

DMG 607 Riverine Disaster Management
Provides detailed knowledge on the effects of riverine disasters such as floods and riverbank erosion, and organizational and local efforts to manage them, with emphasis on the Bangladeshi context. The purpose is to develop knowledge and understanding of these widespread and serious hazards in Bangladesh, with a view towards developing expertise in their management. Contents: Causes and effects of riverine disasters, Distinction between floods, flooding and riverbank erosion, Indigenous coping mechanisms, Organizational initiatives, Structural and non-structural vulnerability reduction methods. 3 credits.
References:
Ali, M.A. (2002) Engineering Concerns of Flood. Dhaka, BUET.
Elahi, K.M. and Rogge, J.R. (1990) Riverbank Erosion, Flood and Population Displacement in Bangladesh. Dhaka, Jahangirnagar University.
Hughes, Ross et al (1994) Floodplains or Flood Plans? A Review of Approaches to Water Management in Bangladesh. London, IIED and Dhaka, RAS.
Mirza, M.M.Q. (2003) Flood Problem and Management in South Asia. London, Kluwer Academic Publishers.
Nishat, A. et al (2000) The 1998 Flood: Impact on Environment of Dhaka City. Dhaka, IUCN.
Thompson, P. and Tod, I. (1998) “Mitigating Flood Losses in the Active Floodplains of Bangladesh”. Disaster Prevention and Management, Vol. 7, No. 2.

DMG 608 Cyclone and Tornado Preparedness and Rehabilitation
Provides detailed knowledge on the effects and management aspects of cyclones and tornadoes including preparedness measures such as forecasting, warning and shelter provision and post-cyclone/tornado organizational relief and rehabilitation. The purpose is to develop knowledge and understanding of this frequent and serious hazard in Bangladesh, with a view towards developing expertise in its management. Causes and effects of cyclones and tornadoes, Preparedness, forecasting and warning mechanisms, Post-cyclone/tornado rehabilitation, Structural and non-structural vulnerability reduction methods. 3 credits.
References:
BRAC (1991) Cyclone ‘91: A Study of Shelters. Dhaka, BRAC.
Choudhury, J.R. et al (1993) Multipurpose Cyclone Shelter Study. Dhaka, BIDS.
Kalsi, S.R. (2001) “Role of Meteorological & Scientific Methods for Prediction of Cyclones and Advance Warning System” in Natural Disaster Mitigation & Safety of Human Settlements. Delhi, ISE-Vastu Kala Academy.
Palmer-Jones, R. et al (1992) Chittagong Post-Cyclone Rehabilitation Programme, World Vision Bangladesh. Northampton, World Vision.
Schmidlin, T. and Ono, Y. (1996) Tornadoes in Districts of Jamalpur and Tangail in Bangladesh. Boulder, University of Colorado.
UNCRD (1991) Cyclone Damage in Bangladesh. Paris, UATI and Dhaka, BUET.

DMG 609 Earthquake Vulnerability Reduction 
Provides knowledge on the causes and effects of earthquakes and understanding of strategies for reducing potential damage and loss of life due to this destructive hazard. The objective is to extend skills and know-how to be able to contribute to the development of organized approaches for earthquake vulnerability reduction. Contents: Vulnerability and risk assessment, Preparedness and awareness building, Rehabilitation issues, Structural and non-structural vulnerability reduction methods. 3 credits.
References:
ADPC (2003) Earthquake Vulnerability Reduction in Cities (EVRC-3): Reader and Participants Manual. Bangkok, ADPC.
Ali, M.H. and Choudhury, J.R. (2001) “Assessment of Seismic Hazard in Bangladesh” in Nizamuddin, K. (ed) (2001) Disaster in Bangladesh: Selected Readings. Dhaka, DRTMC.
Choudhury, J.R. (1997) Seismic Hazards and Bangladesh Scenario. Dhaka, DMB.
DDC (1993) Seismic Zoning and Earthquake Risk Analysis of Bangladesh. Dhaka, BNBC.
FEMA (2000) Earthquake Hazard Mitigation Handbook. Washington DC, FEMA.

DMG 610 Community Based Approaches to Disaster Management
Provides an overview of approaches for facilitating communities to develop disaster preparedness and recovery plans. The objective is to develop appreciation of the importance of the role of the community in managing disasters that it faces and the function of organizations in facilitating this management. Contents: Participatory methods, Community mobilization, Facilitating self-help initiatives, Sustaining long-term community based disaster management. 3 credits.
References:
Ahmed, K.I. (2001) Participatory Action Research on Building-for-Safety Options for Low-Income Rural Housing in Flood-Prone Areas. Research report. Dhaka, BUET and UK, University of Exeter.
Ara, S. (1998) “Participatory Monitoring and Evaluation of Flood-Proofing Pilot Project, CARE-Bangladesh”. PLA Notes, Issue 31. London, IIED.
Dixit, A. (1999) “Community-Based Initiatives in Earthquake Risk Management Process in Nepal” in NSET-2, The Kathmandu Valley Earthquake Risk Management Action Plan. Kathmandu, NSET.
Maskrey, A. (1989) “Disaster Mitigation: A Community Based Approach” in Mata, F. and MacDonald, M. (eds) Human Settlements: People Making a Difference. San Jose (Costa Rica), Earth Council.
UNCRD (2003) International Workshop on People, Communities and Disasters. Proceedings. Hyoga, UNCRD.

DMG 611 GIS and Remote Sensing Techniques in Disaster Management
Imparts knowledge on the basic concepts of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing Techniques and their potential for application in disaster management. Objective is to instill understanding of the basic GIS models and operations, and the potential and usefulness of GIS and remote sensing to support decision-making about the spatial dimension of disaster management. Contents: Constituents of vector and raster models, Data analysis, Spatial information assembling for disaster management, Utilization for decision-making, Remote Sensing Techniques. 3 credits.
References:
Burrough, P.A. (1986) Principles of Geographical Information Systems for Land Resources Assessment. Oxford, Clarendon.
Carrara and Guzetti (eds) (1995) Geographical Information Systems in Assessing Natural Hazards. Dordrecht, Kluwer.
Heywood, I. et al (1998) An Introduction to Geographical Information Systems. Delhi, Pearson Education Asia.
Organization of American States (1990) “Tools and Techniques for Natural Hazard Assessment” in Disaster, Planning and Development: Managing Natural Hazards to Reduce Loss. Washington DC, USAID.
Rosenfeld, C. (1994) “Flood Hazard Reduction: GIS Maps Survival Strategies in Bangladesh”. Geo Info Systems, May 1994.

DMG 612 Building Design and Construction in Disaster-Prone Areas
Provides knowledge on methods of building safer buildings in disaster-prone areas, construction of disaster shelters and provision of post-disaster emergency housing. The purpose is to develop awareness of the key aspects of building design and construction that can contribute to creation of hazard-resistant habitats before, during and after disasters. Contents: Building-for-safety, Retrofitting, Disaster shelters, Emergency housing, Building codes. 3 credits.
References:
Aysan, Y. et al (1995) Developing Building for Safety Programmes: Guidelines for Organizing Safe Building Improvement Programmes in Disaster-Prone Areas. London, IT Publications.
Clayton, et al (1993-1995) Building for Safety (series of 4 books). London, IT Publications. 
Davis, I. (1978) Shelter after Disaster. Oxford, Oxford Polytechnic Press.
HBRI and BSTI (1993) Bangladesh National Building Code. Dhaka, HBRI and BSTI.
Seraj, S.M. and Ahmed, K.I. (in press) Building Safer Houses in Rural Bangladesh. Dhaka, BUET and UK, University of Exeter.

DMG 613 Urbanization and Disasters
Provides knowledge on rapid urbanization in developing countries and the management of urban disasters. The aim is to create understanding of the link between uncontrolled urban growth and its potential for resulting in disasters and strategies to manage such disasters. Contents: Rapid urbanization, Urban bias in development, Planning regulations, Urban services and infrastructure, Urban disaster management. 3 credits.
References:
ADPC (undated) Asian Urban Disaster Management Program (BUDMP). Various project reports. Bangkok, ADPC.
CARE-Bangladesh (undated) Bangladesh Urban Disaster Management Program (BUDMP). Various project reports. Dhaka, CARE-Bangladesh.
Islam, N. (1994) “Urbanization and the Urban Environment in Bangladesh” in Rahman, A.A. et al (eds) Environment and Development in Bangladesh, Vol. 1. Dhaka, UPL.
UNCHS (2001) Cities in a Globalizing World. London, Earthscan.
UNCRD (1993) Disaster Management in Metropolitan Areas for the 21st Century. Nagoya, UNCRD. 

DMG 614 Risk Communication, Training and Public Awareness
Provides an overview of the different methods for communicating disaster risk and preparedness measures and building public awareness, of which training programs is an essential part. The objective is to enable students to gain the necessary knowledge and skills to develop their own disaster risk and vulnerability reduction training and public awareness programs and/or to contribute to such programs. Contents: Communication and dissemination techniques, Public awareness campaigns, Training programs, Role of media, internet and telecommunications. 3 credits.
References:
Bratschi, G. (1998) “Programming Risk Awareness Raising Campaigns: A Collective Need” in UN-IDNDR and QUIPNET Internet Conference: Prevention Begins with Information.
CARE-Bangladesh (2002) Disasters in Bangladesh and Public Awareness (in Bangla). Dhaka, CARE-Bangladesh.
Carmen, R. (1990) Communication, Education and Empowerment. Manchester, University of Manchester Press.
Gandelsona, C. (ed) (2002) Communicating for Development. London, ITDG.
Linney, B. (1995) Pictures, People and Power: People-Centred Visual Aids for Development. London, Macmillan. 

DMG 615 Gender Issues in Disaster Management
Provides knowledge and understanding about the importance of addressing gender issues and incorporating appropriate gender-sensitive measures in disaster management programs. The objective is to sensitize students about the need to approach disaster risk reduction from a gender-disaggregated perspective, and to provide them with tools to address the issue in disaster response and preparedness activities. Contents: Women’s status, Gender-based vulnerability and capacity, Gender-oriented special needs in disaster situations, Development of gender-sensitive disaster management programs. 3 credits.
References:
Ariyabandu, M.M. and Wickremasinghe, M. (2003) Gender Dimensions in Disaster Management. Sri Lanka, ITDG.
Enarson, E. (2000) Gender and Natural Disasters. IDCRR Working Paper no. 1, Geneva, ILO.
Enarson, E. and Morrow, B.H. (eds) (1999) The Gendered Terrain of Disaster: Through Women’s Eyes. Westport (CT), Greenwood Publishing.
Fothergill, Alice (1996) “Gender, Risk and Disasters”. Mass Emergencies and Disasters, Vol. 14, No. 4.
Morrow, B.H. and Phillips, B.D. (eds) (1999) Special Issue: “Women and Disasters”. Mass Emergencies and Disasters, Vol. 17, No. 1. 

DMG 616 Disaster Risk Reduction and Development Planning
Provides knowledge to appreciate the need for integrating disaster risk reduction aspects in development policy, planning and implementation. The purpose is to equip students with the skills to identify the linkages between disasters and development, and understand the formulation and application of appropriate development planning policies integrating disaster risk reduction. Methods for advocacy of this integrated approach forms an important constituent. Contents: Linkages between disasters and development, Impact of disasters on development, Disaster-Development continuum, Cause-Effect relationship between development planning and disasters. 3 credits
References:
Bartle, P. (2003) From Disaster to Development. Seattle, CDS. www.scu.org/ip/cds/cmp/modules/dis-int.htm
Hossain, H., Dodge, C.P., and Abed F.H. (1992) From Crisis to Development: Coping with Disasters in Bangladesh. Dhaka, UPL.
PRSP & MDG, WSSD Declaration, UNDP RDR report, MDMR (and other relevant NGO projects).
UNCRD (1992) Integrated Approach to Rural Development and Disaster Management in Bangladesh (proceedings). Nagoya, UNCRD.
UNDP (2004) Reducing Disaster Risk: A Challenge for Development. New York, UNDP.

DMG 617 Field Study I 
This course is compulsory in Semester 01 of the diploma program. Field visits made to disaster management projects and case studies of various organizations to provide understanding of the actual challenges and constraints to disaster management in real conditions on the ground. Visits to sites supplemented by presentations by field-based personnel and experts. The students will evaluate the projects visited and their findings and comments will be presented in reports and class seminars. 2 credits.
References:
Project documents and program literature of organizations to be visited. 

DMG 618 Field Study II 
This course is compulsory in Semester 02 of the diploma program. Field visits will be made to disaster-risk areas and students will document relevant local data. This data will be utilized to simulate disaster scenarios with respect to actual local conditions and correspondingly students will prepare appropriate disaster management plans. Training in relevant computer software packages will be provided. The field study will be presented as a report and in a class seminar. 2 credits. 
References:
Region-specific documents, literature and baseline reports.
IDNDR (2000b) RADIUS (Risk Assessment Tools for Diagnosis of Urban Areas against Seismic Disasters). New York, United Nations. 

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