Graduate-Level Academics


When we consider the word disaster, most conjure images they see in movies, the news, or social media feeds. Additionally, we think of disasters as abstract events that only affect others and have a low likelihood of occurring in our geographic footprint. COVID-19 has changed that notion. It is hard to say that COVID-19 introduced many positives to the world’s population. However, the field of disaster management has benefitted because the misconception that “it can’t happen to me” no longer exists. There is likely not a person alive that has not been affected by COVID-19, either directly or indirectly. The question we have to ask ourselves is, “How prepared were you for the pandemic?” Many will tell you they were not adequately prepared because they did not know how to prepare. If this was your answer, then the graduate programs at the University of Georgia’s Institute for Disaster Management are the place for you!

The MPH and graduate certificate programs in disaster management at the University of Georgia are unique educational opportunities that blend theoretical and conceptual frameworks with real-world, experiential learning opportunities. Our core teaching philosophy is to provide students with the skills to think critically and make immediate decisions in disasters, given available resources and needs. In addition to obtaining your graduate certificate or degree, students also receive certifications from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, National Disaster Life Support Foundation, and others to increase knowledge, skills, and abilities and increase overall marketability when searching for jobs.

You can find out more information about all of our programs and how to apply here on our website. We hope to see you at IDM soon!

Feel free to reach out with any questions.

Curt Harris, PhD
Director of Institute for Disaster Management
Associate Professor


Graduate Information

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Prepared For Whatever Tomorrow Brings

Elizabeth Hardister had her eyes set on getting a master’s degree from the University of Georgia Institute for Disaster Management (IDM) before she had even declared an undergraduate major. Her

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You Don’t Have to be a Disaster Management Minor to Make a Difference

It’s a common misconception: disaster management is a one-minded field. A branch of public health, disaster management is nothing if not multidisciplinary. It is everywhere and in everything. Its principles

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It’s a No-Regrets Decision to study at the University of Georgia Institute for Disaster Management

Ansu Karim, MPH ’23 In February 2021, I was awarded a Fulbright scholarship through the U.S. Department of State to study for a master’s degree in the United States. It