University of Leicester

What you'll study

This distance-learning MSc covers the conceptual foundations, applied techniques and managerial skills required to understand and respond to risk, crises and disasters. Teaching combines social science perspectives on risk and vulnerability with practical modules on assessment, planning and operational response.

• Core topics typically include risk theory and governance; crisis and emergency management; disaster risk reduction; and resilience planning.
• Methods and analysis modules cover qualitative and quantitative research methods, risk assessment tools, hazard mapping and scenario-based planning.
• Professional skills focus on leadership and decision-making in high-pressure environments, business continuity, communication in crises, and multi-agency coordination.
• Applied project / dissertation allows you to undertake a piece of independent applied research or a workplace-based project that integrates learning across the programme.

Delivery is fully online and designed for part-time study: learning is through recorded lectures, reading packs, interactive seminars/webinars, tutor-led discussion forums and assessed coursework. Assessment methods commonly include essays, policy-style reports, risk assessments, scenario exercises and a final project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a UK upper second-class honours degree (2:1) or an international equivalent in a relevant subject such as geography, environmental science, social science, engineering, public policy or a related discipline. Applicants with a lower second-class degree (2:2) may be considered where they can demonstrate substantial relevant professional experience.

Professional experience in emergency management, civil protection, humanitarian work, security, business continuity, local government or related fields is valued and can strengthen an application. All applicants whose first language is not English must meet the University’s English language requirements; a commonly accepted profile is an IELTS overall score of 6.5 with no component lower than 6.0 (or an approved equivalent).

Career prospects

Graduates of this MSc move into a wide range of careers where risk, resilience and crisis management are central. Typical roles include emergency planner, business continuity manager, resilience officer, disaster risk reduction advisor, humanitarian programme manager, policy analyst, risk consultant and roles in law enforcement or public safety agencies.

Alumni work across the public sector (local and national government), international organisations and NGOs, utilities and infrastructure companies, private-sector consultancy, insurance and reinsurance, and community resilience organisations. The distance-learning format is designed to enable professionals to apply learning directly to their workplace and to progress in their current careers while studying.

Why study at University of Leicester

The University of Leicester offers an established distance-learning environment that combines academic research strengths in risk, security and disaster studies with practical, career-focused teaching. The programme is delivered by staff with interdisciplinary expertise and professional experience, and it provides flexibility for part-time learners balancing work and study.

Students benefit from online academic support, access to digital library resources, and a network of peers drawn from diverse sectors and countries, which enriches applied learning and professional networking opportunities. The course emphasises transferable skills—critical analysis, research methods, leadership and communication—valued by employers in resilience, emergency management and related fields.