Humanitarian, Emergency and Risk Communication

Undergraduate | 2026

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Mode icon
Mode
Mode
Your studies will be on-campus, and may include some online delivery
On campus
area/catalogue icon
Area/Catalogue
MDIA 2019
Course ID icon
Course ID
204213
Campus icon
Campus
Adelaide City Campus
Level of study
Level of study
Undergraduate
Unit value icon
Unit value
6
Course owner
Course owner
Adelaide University
Course level icon
Course level
2
Work Integrated Learning course
Work Integrated Learning course
No
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Inbound study abroad and exchange
Inbound study abroad and exchange
The fee you pay will depend on the number and type of courses you study.
Yes
University-wide elective icon
University-wide elective course
Yes
Single course enrollment
Single course enrolment
Yes

Course overview

Communication is an integral part of any emergency or humanitarian response. The importance of effective and timely communication is particularly high where the situation may be rapidly evolving and the need for information is high. Effective communication enables vulnerable populations to take informed decisions to mitigate the effects of threats and take protective and preventive action. This intensive practical course will guide students through the development of a country specific communication strategy designed to address a humanitarian or emergency situation. It encourages practical skills development in the areas of humanitarian and emergency communication design including: the risk communication cycle, risk research, communication planning, implementation, situational awareness, message design, accountability to disaster affected populations, humanitarian journalism, advocacy and evaluation.

Course learning outcomes

  • In-depth knowledge of humanitarian, emergency and risk communication practice
  • Build practical experience of applying core communication tools and methods to real-world problems
  • Develop knowledge of humanitarian, emergency and risk communication design and management processes;
  • Develop and apply critical thinking skills to communication problems;
  • Develop skills in communication, collaborative enquiry and problem solving
  • Foster an awareness of ethical, social, and cultural issues within a global context and their importance in the exercise of professional skills and responsibilities

Prerequisite(s)

N/A

Corequisite(s)

N/A

Antirequisite(s)

N/A

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The Student Contribution amount displayed below is for students commencing a new program from 2021 onwards. If you are continuing in a program you commenced prior to 1 January 2021, or are commencing an Honours degree relating to an undergraduate degree you commenced prior to 1 January 2021, you may be charged a different Student Contribution amount from the amount displayed below. Please check the Student Contribution bands for continuing students here. If you are an international student, or a domestic student studying in a full fee paying place, and are continuing study that you commenced in 2025 or earlier, your fees will be available here before enrolments open for 2026.