Advanced Threat and Hazard Assessment

Catalog description

It is impossible to prevent, mitigate or prepare for harm if one does not adequately understand the sources of that harm. This course will introduce students to the theory, tools and techniques of threat and hazard assessment (THA) in the context of security studies and emergency response. Through both formal instruction and practical exercises, the course will provide a theoretical background to threats and hazards and the distinction between them, as well as situating THA within the larger field of risk management. A selection of specific threat and hazard assessment tools will be presented and practical projects distributed to students in order to practice the use of these tools. No specific mathematical knowledge beyond high-school level is needed, although students with more advanced quantitative skills will be directed towards additional material for extra credit. Prerequisite(s): junior or senior standing or permission of instructor.