LOG904-151 Disaster Relief Operations and Supply Chain (Autumn 2026)
- ECTS Credits:
- 2.5
- Responsible faculty:
- Avdeling for logistikk
- Campus:
- Molde
- Course Leader:
- Arild Hoff
- Teaching language:
- English
- Study level:
- {code=HN, name=Second degree level}
- Duration:
- ½ year
Table of contents
Contents
Disaster relief supply chain and operations has attracted increasing academic attention since the early 2000s, with research articles emerging over a quarter century that has witnessed some of the most catastrophic humanitarian disasters in modern times bringing about unique challenges for organisations, actors, and communities.
Humanitarian aid is a complex and thorny subject, yet the public’s understanding of the humanitarian system is often oversimplified. With increased demand for assistance augmented on the humanitarian system, pressure is heaped on supply chain systems. And, for every call to assist with aid, there are many more ongoing projects related to disaster that don’t gain our attention.
Understanding the challenges and enhancing the effectiveness of disaster relief and humanitarian work is regarded as vital to enhancing the efficacy of future relief efforts.
The course is connected to the following study programs
- Master in Logistics
- Experience-based Master in Logistics
- Master in Sustainable Energy Logistics
- Exchange programme - Master's level
Recommended knowledge
No previous knowledge of humanitarianism or disaster relief is required for this seminar.
The student's learning outcomes after passing the exam
This module uses real-world cases to examine disaster relief operations and humanitarian supply chains. You will explore how the humanitarian sector has evolved, the nature of different disasters, the principles that guide humanitarian action, and the operational risks and challenges facing relief organisations.
Drawing on operations and supply chain management theory, you will analyse how organisations respond to resource constraints, uncertainty, and rapidly changing environments. Attention is given to resource-based challenges and emerging capabilities in humanitarian operations.
You will apply your learning through engagement with an industry practitioner, developing and communicating evidence-based insights through both discussion and assessment.
Seminars will take place Monday to Thursday, 09.15 – 12.00. Friday morning is reserved for Assignment 1.
No previous knowledge of humanitarianism or disaster relief is required for this seminar.
Forms of teaching and learning
- Lectures and discussion seminars introducing the humanitarian system.
- Case study on the MSF response to the Ebola outbreak in 2014.
- ‘Medicines, Materials, and Mobilisation: A practitioner seminar with MSF Supply’
Seminars will take place Monday to Friday, 09.15 – 12.00. Friday is reserved for assignment support.
Exam
- 50% group presentation (10 minutes)
- 50% individual report (1250 words)