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FAQ's - Fequently Asked Questions

Why an interdisciplinary program?

The study of disasters is inherently interdisciplinary. While is perfectly acceptable to seek a graduate degree in a specific discipline with a concentration in disasters wherein the student’s research might focus on disasters and courses on disasters are either electives or part of the breadth requirements. In the interdisciplinary program the core courses are focused on disasters and discipline specific classes serve as electives. Research and internships are all related to disasters.

What degrees are offered?

Master of Science (MS), both with and without a thesis, and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).

What are the advantages and disadvantages of an interdisciplinary degree?

The advantage of an interdisciplinary program is that your classes and research will focus on disasters. The disadvantage of an interdisciplinary program is that you will not develop in depth knowledge in a specific discipline.
How long will the degree take?

The MS degree can be completed in one or two years of full-time graduate study depending on how much time is devoted to research and the course load taken. The PhD degree can take from three to five years of graduate study depending on your background.

Can I complete the degree part-time?

MS degrees can be completed part-time. Some courses are offered as distance learning courses. The PhD degree requires at least one-year of full-time residency.

What background do I need to have?

Students come from very different backgrounds. All students are expected to demonstrate competence in oral and written communication. Knowledge of mathematics and statistics is strongly encouraged.

What types of internships are available?

Internships will vary from working with an agency to developing a disaster plan to conducting field studies following a disaster. We will try to match student’s expertise and interests to the available internships.

What types of jobs can I get with this degree?

Positions in federal, state and local government, non-governmental organizations and consultants require a master’s degree. Academic positions require a PhD.

Are there opportunities to study abroad?

The University of Delaware has an active study abroad program and the Disaster Research Center has affiliations with research organizations on every continent. Opportunities abroad for internships, practicums and research experiences are available.

What are the opportunities for field work?

Field work is a hall mark of disaster research at the University of Delaware. All students will be strongly encouraged to participate in field work.

What does it mean to be a research assistant?

Research assistants receive tuition and a modest stipend. They are expected to work up to 20 hours per week on faculty projects and maintain full-time status in terms of courses and participation in academic activities.

What other opportunities are there for funding?

A variety of fellowships offered by federal agencies and foundations are available for graduate study. A list is available on the DRC website.

Why the University of Delaware?

The Disaster Research Center at University of Delaware is the oldest research center focused on the social science of disasters. The DRC also has a long history of interdisciplinary research. This research combined with the unique features of the proposed program -- field experience, international experience, interdisciplinary focus, strong advising and committed faculty, and the central location of University of Delaware make UD the perfect place to study disasters!

What is the relationship between the Disaster Research Center (DRC) and the Disaster Science and Management Program?

Many of the faculty involved in the DISA program are also affiliated with DRC. DRC provides an intellectual home for interdisciplinary disaster related research at UD.

How do I find an advisor?

Review the faculty pages on our website, read about the projects, read the published papers, listen to the podcasts of recent presentations, talk to former and current graduate students, talk to faculty members, come and visit, or do all of the above!

What is a plan of study?

A plan of study is a document outlining which courses you will take when, and the milestone involved in completing your degree requirements. The plan of study is developed in consultation with your faculty advisor and serves as a guide throughout the program.