About the Department

The Centre for Natural Hazards and Disaster Studies (CNHDS) at University of Madras was born of a major initiative on the part of the University in response to Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR).

The idea of setting up of Centre for Natural Hazards and Disaster Studies subsequently got a big stimulus by the patronage received from former Vice Chancellor Dr.Thandavan University of Madras. The idea eventually turned into ground reality with the seal of approval of the syndicate of Madras University on 2015. 

The activities of the centre got a further boost when the Government of Tamil Nadu also accorded its approval for setting of integrated course for Disaster Management. Ever since, the Centre has moved forward from strength to strength, with the passage of time. Today, its main strength lies in its vision for Disaster Free India, its multidisciplinary expertise, its International and National linkages and its vibrant work programme driven by Innovation and Ideas.  Being located in the campus of a highly progressive and reputed University, it also has the gift of continuous association with fertile young minds.

Objective

Natural Hazards and Disaster Management Studies (NHDMS) is a multidisciplinary area which includes geography, geology and other geo-science disciplines keeping this in view, it is proposed to have a two year Masters programme in Disaster Management. 

The main objective of the course is to train students in the fundamental and applied aspects of Natural Hazards and Disaster Studies. 

It also aims at making the students to specialize in advanced areas to understand the concept, theory, model and scientific explanation of consequences and mitigation process of any unfortunate incidents like disaster and calamities.

The course also aims to encourage and nurture high creativity and innovative idea among the students.  Special emphasis will be given on translational research and training in Disaster studies which are considered to be productive technologies and have direct relevance to our country.

Mission

Spreading the in-depth awareness among the community and sensitizing them for disaster management which reduces the Loss Prevention and Disaster Free India 

Vision

The Centre envisages imparting and gaining knowledge for holistic understanding of the disaster and help to develop the leadership skill to build a sustainable, environment-friendly world.

Target Groups and Careers

The M.Sc. is mainly intended for those who are involved in the geospatial data inventory, hazard mapping, emergency planning and response management in different sectors.

• Commercial sector, environmental agencies, local and national government, research, and academia
• National survey and mapping organizations, International organizations, United Nations etc.
• Disaster Management Authorities
• Application oriented organizations (cadastre, local authorities, utilities companies, natural resources surveys,
• environment, private geoinformation production organizations),
• Private sector,(examples: Information technology industry, GIS consulting firms, Environmental management
• agencies, Tourist industry, Utility companies, E-commerce, Mineral exploration, environmental consultancy,
• project officers, programmers and sales managers
• Emergency services, Public health and epidemiology, Planning and urban development, Crime mapping,
• Transportation and infrastructure