You'll explore the science behind natural disasters like earthquakes, volcanoes, tsunamis, and hurricanes. The course covers how these events form, their impacts on society, and ways to mitigate their effects. You'll also delve into human-caused disasters like climate change, pollution, and deforestation, examining their geological and environmental consequences.

Is Natural and Human Disasters hard?

It's not typically considered a super tough class, but it does involve some scientific concepts that might be new to you. The difficulty often depends on your background in geology and environmental science. Most students find the content interesting, which makes it easier to engage with. The real challenge is often remembering all the different types of disasters and their characteristics.

Tips for taking Natural and Human Disasters in college

Use Fiveable Study Guides to help you cram 🌶️
Create a disaster "cheat sheet" with key info about each type of disaster
Watch documentaries on recent natural disasters to see real-world applications
Practice drawing diagrams of disaster processes (like plate tectonics for earthquakes)
Join a study group to discuss case studies and share notes
Check out "Disasters: Natural and Man-Made Catastrophes Through the Centuries" by Brenda Z. Guiberson for extra reading
Use online resources like USGS and NOAA websites for current data and examples

Common pre-requisites for Natural and Human Disasters

Introduction to Geology: This course covers the basics of Earth's structure, rocks, and geological processes. It's a great foundation for understanding the forces behind natural disasters.
Environmental Science 101: This class introduces you to Earth's systems and how humans interact with the environment. It provides context for both natural and human-caused disasters.

Classes similar to Natural and Human Disasters

Climate Change and Society: Explores the science of climate change and its impacts on human communities. You'll learn about global warming, extreme weather events, and potential solutions.
Environmental Hazards: Focuses on various environmental risks and their management. This course often includes topics like air and water pollution, waste management, and industrial accidents.
Meteorology: Dives into the study of weather patterns and atmospheric phenomena. It's great for understanding the science behind hurricanes, tornadoes, and other weather-related disasters.
Oceanography: Examines the physical and biological aspects of the world's oceans. You'll learn about tsunamis, sea-level rise, and marine ecosystem disruptions.

Geology: Focuses on the study of Earth's structure, composition, and processes. Students learn about rocks, minerals, plate tectonics, and the forces shaping our planet.
Environmental Science: Combines natural sciences with social sciences to understand environmental issues. Students study ecosystems, pollution, conservation, and sustainable development.
Geography: Examines the Earth's landscapes, peoples, places, and environments. Students learn about both physical and human geography, including natural hazards and their impacts on societies.
Emergency Management: Prepares students to handle crisis situations and disasters. The major covers risk assessment, disaster response planning, and recovery strategies.

What can you do with a degree in Natural and Human Disasters?

Emergency Management Specialist: Develops and implements plans for responding to natural disasters and other emergencies. They work with government agencies, non-profits, or private companies to minimize the impact of disasters on communities.
Environmental Consultant: Advises organizations on environmental issues and helps them comply with regulations. They might assess the environmental impact of projects or help companies develop sustainable practices.
Hazard Mitigation Officer: Works to reduce the long-term risk of disasters in communities. They analyze potential hazards, develop mitigation strategies, and help implement projects to increase community resilience.
Geohazard Analyst: Studies geological hazards like earthquakes, landslides, and volcanoes. They assess risks, create hazard maps, and provide recommendations for land use planning and infrastructure development.