Whereas, the proposed MS (both thesis and non-thesis) and PhD in Disaster Science and Management (DISA) program is a unique interdisciplinary graduate course of study covering the theories, research methodologies, and policies informing efforts focused on emergency preparedness, mitigation, management, and response, and

Whereas, there has been much interest over several years from individuals with diverse backgrounds and interest in pursuing interdisciplinary graduate studies in disaster science and management, and

Whereas, the experience of the Disaster Research Center with graduate level research and training, and collaboration with the School of Urban Affairs and Public Policy provide existing courses and a foundation for the program, and

Whereas, the proposed program contributes to three milestones on the University’s “path to prominence”: to become a premier research and graduate university; to achieve excellence in professional education; and the engaged university, be it therefore

Resolved, that the Faculty Senate recommends approval provisionally, for five years, the establishment of a new major leading to the MS, and seven years provisionally, for the PhD degrees in Disaster Science and Management, effective September 1, 2009.