Tohoku University Launches World-first Disaster Science Course on 15th Anniversary of Great East Japan Earthquake

To mark the 15th anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake, Tohoku University has announced the launch of a new Disaster Science Course aimed at strengthening preparedness for future disasters. Believed to be the first academic program of its kind in the world, the initiative reflects the university's strategy as a University for International Research Excellence. Student enrollment is expected to begin in October 2026.

The course will be established within the Graduate School of Environmental Studies in April and will consolidate the expertise of the International Research Institute of Disaster Science (IRIDeS). Its curriculum will focus on the full spectrum of disaster management, from preparedness and emergency response to recovery and reconstruction.

"This is a very multidisciplinary course, so many backgrounds are relevant," said Fumihiko Imamura, the former director of IRIDeS and current vice president for social outreach, alumni associations and the Tohoku University Fund. "We expect students to include recent Tohoku University graduates, graduates from universities worldwide who are interested in disaster science, and professionals from the public and private sectors who could become future leaders in disaster management."

The program combines interdisciplinary coursework with specialized subjects and guided research. It aims to cultivate experts familiar with the principles of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030, including concepts such as investment in disaster risk reduction and the"Build Back Better"approach to reconstruction. For the first time, Tohoku University will award Master of Science (Disaster Science) and Doctor of Science (Disaster Science) degrees.

A key feature of the course will be problem-solving Project-Based Learning, developed through collaboration among industry, government and academia. Students will also learn from leading Japanese and international experts who have contributed to global disaster risk reduction strategies.

"As a University for International Research Excellence, we focus on impact, talent and change," said Imamura. "This program will cultivate important talent and create lasting impact, not only scientifically and technologically, but also through effective policy and management. We have knowledge and valuable experience from 2011 to share."

As part of the 15th-anniversary commemorations, Tohoku University also co-hosted a symposium in Tokyo in February titled "From Someone Else's Problem to My Own: What I Can Do About the Impending Mega-Earthquake - 15 Years After the Great East Japan Earthquake."

Keynote speakers included Tohoku University Executive Vice President for Disaster Reconstruction and Regeneration Hiroo Yugami and Yomiuri Shimbun President Toshikazu Yamaguchi.

While disaster science experts - including Imamura and current IRIDeS Director Shinichi Kuriyama - presented research and case studies on recovery and reconstruction efforts.

A recurring theme throughout the symposium was the importance of youth engagement. A panel coordinated by IRIDeS Associate Professor Yo Fukushima featured students from Tohoku University, Fukushima University, Musashino University and Kochi University who are active in volunteer work.

Associate Professor Julia Gerster, who experienced the 2011 earthquake as a student in Japan, also joined the discussion. Panelists examined the current state of disaster preparedness, ongoing initiatives and possible solutions to remaining challenges.

"One key takeaway was the important role university students can play in promoting behavioral change," Fukushima said. Students described activities aimed at different groups in society, including children and older adults, demonstrating how young people can act as communicators across communities.

Fukushima noted that effective disaster preparedness requires diverse perspectives. "While generations have different experiences with disasters, the fundamental approach to risk reduction doesn't differ. Engaging multiple generations enriches the discussion and helps create inclusive solutions. University students can bridge these gaps with their energy and communication skills, fostering broader social engagement in disaster preparedness."

The success of the symposium - and the launch of the Disaster Science Course - highlight Tohoku University's ongoing commitment to transforming the lessons of past disasters into greater preparedness and resilience in the future.