Every year in the TCI, we face the hurricane season, become at risk of many different natural disasters and various acts of arson. If you are interested in a job which would assist in mitigating these factors or working in an emergency, a career in Crisis and Disaster Management has your name on it.
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Academic Routes Technical RoutesAcademic Routes
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Further Education Higher EducationWhat do I need?
Crisis and Disaster Management is a sector that is rich with jobs ranging from firefighters to Policy Makers. While every career within it is unique, each requires the basic knowledge of how to stop and prevent an emergency or disaster efficiently. To work in at a managerial level, you more than likely need a related postgraduate qualification. However, there are impactful and essential levels in the field you can immerse in. We explain further below.
Further Education
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A-Levels BTEC Diploma and City & Guilds Access to Higher EducationFurther Education is considered Level 3 education in the UK (England, Northern Ireland, and Wales). The most common further education route is A-Levels, but it’s not the only option. There are coursework based courses like BTEC. To pursue a Bachelors degree (Level 4), you must complete this level of education first.
A-Levels
A-Levels are exam based courses taken post-secondary education. Usually, people take from 3 A-Level subjects as most university courses require at least 3. For Crisis and Disaster Management, you would need knowledge of the earth and its systems. Hence an A-Level in Geography would be a wise decision.
Other A-Level subjects you choose can be varied. However, when choosing, you should assess your main interest and the sectors you want to work, so that you enjoy what you are studying and are establishing a solid knowledge base. Nonetheless, it would be useful to take up additional A-Levels in Biology or Business.
While A-Levels are a ticket to a university degree, it does not certify employment in managerial jobs within the Crisis and Disaster Management sector. Do note that A-Levels are not practical. Which means if you do not intend on pursuing further study, you should be building experience in your field while studying.
What qualifications do I need?
A-level courses will usually require at least 5 IGCSEs (A*-C)/CSECs (Grades 1-3). Mathematics and English Language passes are mandatory to possess. Qualifications like CSEC/IGCSE Science or Geography may be required. It is best to check the specific requirements of the university or college you intend to go to as the entry requirements may differ.
To find A-Level courses search online or Contact us for help.
BTEC Diploma and City & Guilds
The process of obtaining these qualifications are more practical in comparison to the more theory-based academic A-Level. You are assessed solely with coursework.
These qualifications are available at different levels from Levels 1-3. At Level 3, the diploma can be equivalent to up to three (3) A-Levels. BTECs can be taken alongside other qualifications (such as an A-Level) and can permit entry to university.
For Crisis and Disaster Management, universities typically are interested in students who know Geography and Science. Therefore a BTEC in Science, Biomedical Science, Applied Science, Public Services e.t.c is viable options.
City & Guilds, offers qualifications in Environmental Conservation and Environmental Services.
What qualifications do I need?
It depends on the BTEC diploma you’re pursuing. Level 3 BTEC diplomas will usually require at least 5 IGCSEs (A*-C)/CSECs (Grades 1-3). Mathematics and English Language passes are mandatory to possess as well. It is best to check the specific requirements of the university you intend to go to as the entry requirements may differ.
To find BTEC or City & Guilds courses search online or Contact Us for assistance.
But what if I’m over 18 and I have no Level 3 qualifications? We got you below.
Access to Higher Education
Access to Higher Education aka Access to HE is tailored for students aged 19+ who intend to apply for an undergraduate course. These courses take one year, performing as a fast track to higher education.
Universities will typically be looking for students with a science-based background. Access to Higher Education courses in Science, Social Sciences, Humanities, International Relations, etc. are among good options for subjects related to Crisis and Disaster Management.
What qualifications do I need?
Access to HE diplomas will usually require at least 5 IGCSEs (A*-C)/CSECs (Grades 1-3). Mathematics and English Language passes are customarily mandatory to possess as well. It is best to check the specific requirements of the school you intend to go to as the entry requirements may differ.
To find Access to Higher Education courses search online or Contact Us for assistance.
Higher Education
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Foundation Degrees Undergraduate Degrees Postgraduate DegreesFoundation Degrees & Foundation Years
Foundation courses can be taken if your results/tariff points accumulated in a Level 3 qualification were not high enough to allow entry to a standard three-year Bachelors course.
There are two foundation options:
- Foundation Degree – a standalone qualification (1-2 years) equivalent to one or two years of a Bachelors degree.
- Foundation Year – this is the first year of a four year degree consisting of = 1 foundation year + 3 years of a standard Bachelors degree. At the end of the four-year course, you will receive the same qualification as a three-year Bachelors degree student.
For example, Kingston University offers BSc. Environmental Science with Hazards and Disasters including a Foundation Year which lasts for four years. Taking the foundation version would require at least 32 tariff points (Grades CCC at A-Level) while the standard three-degree route would require at least 96 tariff points.
What qualifications do I need?
It varies often per university but usually, universities require at least 60 tariff points. Check the entry requirements per course on UCAS.
To find Foundation courses, enter your area of study and search Foundation degrees here. In the filters select Foundation to only view Foundation courses.
Undergraduate Degrees
All applications to undergraduate courses are accessible via UCAS. Undergraduate courses can come in the form of foundation degrees, HND or Bachelors level.
If you are unsure which sector of Crisis and Disaster Management, you would like to get into; you may benefit from doing a standard Geography or Environmentally based degree. For more varied choice, Combined/Joint Honours courses or courses with a variety mix of subjects may be better suited to you.
Examples include BSc. Geography and Environmental Hazards, Environmental Science with Hazards and Disasters, International Disaster Management and Humanitarian Response and Chinese etc.
Searching Geography or Disaster-related courses on UCAS throws a wealthy bunch of universities for you to choose from.
How do I choose which degree?
With the copious choices given, it may make it difficult to decipher which is best for you.
To start narrowing it down, we suggest you first look at the entry requirements to the course and assess your existing or prospective exam/coursework results.
Next, have a look at the modules done by the university and assess if those are relevant to your career if you’ve already chosen. Also view the teaching quality at the university.
Finally, use comparative websites like Discover Uni or the Complete University Guide to compare course satisfaction and other statistics to make informed decisions.
Tip: Some university courses offer an integrated placement year where you get the option to work in your industry (most times paid, depending on the job you secure). This provides you with at least one year of experience in your field prior to graduation.
To view all higher education options and courses, enter your area of study and search courses here.
What qualifications do I need?
It varies per university but largely universities require at least 90 tariff points. Grades in A-Level tend to be at least BCC-ABB for Crisis/Disaster courses. BTEC diploma grades required tend to be at least MMM. Check the entry requirements per course on UCAS. Some courses have foundation entry options which allows you to gain the qualification and continue the course with lower entry requirements.
Postgraduate Degree
If you already have an undergraduate degree and would like to make a career swap, or you would like to pursue further education we’ve got options for you.
To progress in your career specialisation is key and a good method of doing this is through postgraduate study. Crisis and Disaster Management is also offered at Postgraduate level so that can be your avenue to specialisation.
If you have never done an Geography or Crisis and Disaster related degree, volunteering or any means to generate experience while pursuing the postgraduate qualification would be essential.
Similar to applying for an undergraduate degree, click here to view options and courses, enter your area of study and search courses. Filter options to Postgraduate. (Some postgraduate courses may not be listed on UCAS so do independent searches online).
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Technical Routes
Possible technical routes into Crisis/Disaster Management sector jobs can be found as a firefighter or as an EMT.
Familiarise yourself with different aspects of crises and environmental struggles the world is facing to build your mental area of interest. Building relationships with professionals in the industry can build your network and knowledge base.
The following are technical developments to improve your chances within a career.
Apprenticeships
On an apprenticeship, you’re employed to do a real job while studying for a formal qualification, usually for one day a week either at a college or training centre. By the end of your apprenticeship, you’ll hopefully have gained the skills and knowledge needed to either succeed in your chosen career or progress onto the next apprenticeship level. – Prospects
For Protective Services Apprenticeships click here >>
To find an apprenticeship through Gov.uk in the UK click here >>
Internships
Clinical Exploration Program (TCI CEP)
The Clinical Exploration Program can be a great avenue for you to get experience within the Crisis and Disaster Management industry. The program takes place right in the TCI.
TCI CEP provides you with the opportunity to shadow professionals in their work environment and they place you in rotation sites relevant to your interests. Some of their rotation sites relevant to Disasters and Crises include:
- TCI Government Ministry of Health, Agriculture, Sports and Human Services
- Department of Environment and Maritime Affairs
Apply or learn more about it here >>
United Nations
The United Nations offers lots of internships, some being in relation to Environmental Affairs. These internships are offered internationally, giving you an opportunity to work in a different environment.
IFRC (International Federation of Red Cross)
The IFRC also offers opportunities to intern and volunteer in disaster and risk management. These internships are offered internationally, giving you an opportunity to work in a different environment.
Apply or learn more about it here >>
Volunteering
We encourage you to seek internships or volunteering work within the humanitarian and emergency services sectors.
Do not decline unpaid opportunities especially if you have no experience. Eventually, you may become a paid worker. Additionally, remember you are building a network which is invaluable and you will gain a head start due to on the job learning.
For volunteering and working with the Disasters, Emergency Committee click here >> | For volunteering and working with Emergency UK click here >>.
Currently, at university pursuing Crisis and Disaster-related studies? Volunteer with your lecturers to assist with their research to gain ongoing experience.
Independent Research
Use online resources to build knowledge in your field. Keep abreast with the news, and listen to podcasts or books about your field.
YouTube is your best friend. There are many videos available teaching you more about disasters, international relations, impending crises and geography. Find your niche and the information will be easier to research.
To find out what immigration hurdles you must pass to pursue education in the UK click here. For financial 411s click here.
Unsure about what Crisis and Disaster Management is? Read our explanatory post here.
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