Master of Geography

Master of Geography

On a rapidly changing planet, geography integrates the study of physical and human environments to solve real-world problems at all spatial scales. This master provides the tools to grapple with these problems, including a deeper understanding of geographical problems and methods, knowledge of theoretical debates within the discipline, and practical training in the use of geographical techniques.

About the programme

The Master of Geography is a two-year advanced study programme jointly organised by KU Leuven and the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) with joint degree awarded upon the successful completion of the programme. Within the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences at KU Leuven, geographical research activities are focused on Earth surface processes and climate, human-environ ment interactions, society and space, tourism, and education in the geosciences. Research in the Department of Geography at VUB is focused on the dynamics of glacial systems, the study of hazardous geomorphological and volcanological processes, small-scale carto graphy and map projections, remote sensing, and the geography of world cities.

The full programme comprises 120 ECTS. In addition to core courses on human-environment interactions and research methods in geography (27 ECTS), you will take the compulsory courses within your chosen specialisation (36 ECTS) as well as a number of specialised electives in your field (27 ECTS), including the option of taking an internship (15 ECTS). The remaining 30 ECTS are allocated to the master’s thesis.

For your specialisation, you select a combination of two out of the four modules (18 ECTS each):

• Earth and Climate: this specialisation focuses on terrestrial ecosystems and environmental changes, emphasising timely and relevant research topics in the geosciences like global warming, ice-climate interaction, soil and water conservation, long-term landscape development, natural hazards and risk assessment.
• Society and Space: in a strongly urbanised world there is a growing need to understand social, economic, cultural, and political dynamics of urban areas better. This specialisation focuses on the social and political issues of the current era of globalisation.
• Geo-information Sciences: within this specialisation you become acquainted with new approaches and techniques for acquiring, managing, analysing and mapping spatial data.
• Mixed Methods: you explore the latest research methods in geography, both quantitative and qualitative. You’re trained to be a critical methodologist who can choose the right method for every research question.

Graduates are highly sought after by surveying companies, mapping agencies, service and utility providers and public entities, as well as by national and international administrations dealing with urban and rural land-use planning, disaster management, environmental conservation and  management. Graduates considering a career in research or education can pursue a PhD upon completion of the programme.