Nov 21, 2024  
2024-2025 Graduate Catalog 
    
2024-2025 Graduate Catalog

Geography (PhD)


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Students who successfully graduate with a PhD in Geography will be able to:

  1. Conduct cutting-edge research in a variety of subfields, including physical geography, human geography, and geospatial technologies and make an original contribution to their area of study through rigorous dissertation research that demonstrates their expertise in geographical theory, methods, and techniques.
  2. Evaluate, synthesize, and interpret complex geographical information and develop original and innovative solutions to geographical problems in the lab, the field, or through GIS technologies that demonstrate their critical thinking and analytical skills.
  3. Contribute to solving real-world challenges by engaging in interdisciplinary collaboration and leveraging their geographical knowledge and skills.
  4. Communicate geographical knowledge and research findings to both academic and non-academic audiences in a clear, concise, and engaging manner.
  5. Articulate the role of geography in shaping global patterns of inequality and social justice, as informed and responsible global citizens who can contribute to the creation of a more sustainable and equitable world.

Requirements for the PhD Degree


The Geography Ph.D. degree is a research degree and focuses on specialization and independent scholarship built upon a foundation of geographic knowledge and training. Ph.D. students are expected to obtain an in-depth knowledge of two areas consistent with their emphasis in physical geography, human geography, or human-environmental systems. One of these must be a recognized topical sub-field in the discipline; the other area is methodological, such as statistical methods, mathematical modeling, geographic information science, archival research, or qualitative analysis.

The Doctor of Philosophy degree is awarded chiefly in recognition of high attainment and ability in a specific subfield of geography. This attainment and ability are demonstrated by passing the required examinations covering both a candidate’s general and special subfields, and by preparing and successfully defending a dissertation based on original research that makes a significant contribution to knowledge in the student’s field.

More description of the Ph.D. program can be obtained online at Geography’s website or by contacting the Geography Department.

Last Revised 2024-2025 Academic Year


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