PhD in Geography and Earth Science (Doctor of Philosophy in Geography and Earth Science)
PhD in Geography and Earth Science About
PhD Geography stands for Doctor in Philosophy and is a 3-6 year doctoral program focused on the study of geography. Careers for a Geography PhD after graduation include geomorphologist, geoanalyst, water conservation specialist, hydrologist, geographer, professor, oceanographer, teacher, and more. This degree program combines the study of physical geography, earth science, and environmental science to understand the relationships between human society and the natural environment.
During your PhD program, you will conduct original research in your area of interest and contribute new knowledge to the field. This may involve fieldwork, data collection, laboratory analysis, or modeling, depending on your research focus. You will work closely with a faculty advisor and committee to design and execute your research project, analyze your findings, and write up your results in a thesis or dissertation.
Some common areas of research within Geography and Earth Science include:
| Climate change and its impacts on ecosystems, societies, and economies |
| Environmental hazards, such as earthquakes, floods, and landslides, and how to mitigate their effects |
| Geospatial analysis, including the use of remote sensing, GIS, and spatial statistics to understand patterns and processes in the natural world |
| Hydrology and water resources management, including issues related to water quality, availability, and distribution |
| Natural resource management, including the sustainable use of forests, fisheries, and other resources |
| Urbanization and its impact on the environment, including issues related to land use, transportation, and air quality. |
PhD Geography and Earth Science Highlights
Here are some highlights of a PhD program in Geography and Earth Science:
| Research Focus | A PhD in Geography and Earth Science provides an opportunity to specialize in a specific research area that aligns with your interests and career goals. You will have the opportunity to conduct original research that contributes to the advancement of knowledge in your field. |
| Interdisciplinary Nature | Geography and Earth Science is an interdisciplinary field that combines aspects of physical sciences, social sciences, and humanities. As a result, a PhD program in this field provides a unique opportunity to work on research projects that integrate different perspectives and methodologies. |
| Fieldwork Opportunities | Many research projects in Geography and Earth Science involve fieldwork, providing opportunities to work in a variety of environments and locations around the world. This can be an exciting and rewarding experience that allows you to develop new skills and gain a broader understanding of the world. |
| Career Opportunities | A PhD in Geography and Earth Science can lead to a variety of career opportunities in academia, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and industry. Graduates may pursue careers as researchers, professors, environmental consultants, geospatial analysts, or policy analysts, among other roles. |
PhD Geography and Earth Science Entrance Exam
Most universities and colleges require candidates to take a qualifying entrance exam to be considered for admission. The entrance exam may test candidates' knowledge in areas such as physical geography, earth science, environmental science, and other relevant subjects.
Why Should You Study PhD Geography and Earth Science Course
Geography has been shown to be one of the most employable subjects, as geography students enjoy a wide range of employment opportunities in both the public and private sectors.
Geographers trained in geographic information systems are probably in greatest demand today.
If you are interested in geography education and want it to be strengthened and supported at all levels, learning geography creates a sense of place.
More importantly, understanding geography helps us understand current and historical events, whether of economic, political, or social significance.
Knowing this information can help us become better critical thinkers. Geography permeates almost every aspect of our lives.
PhD Geography and Earth Science Admission
Admission to a PhD program in Geography and Earth Science is highly competitive. Candidates are typically evaluated based on their academic credentials, research experience, and potential for success in the program. Admission decisions may also be based on the availability of faculty advisors who share research interests with the candidate.
Eligibility Criteria For PhD Geography and Earth Science
Candidates for a PhD program in Geography and Earth Science must typically hold a Master's degree in a related field. Some programs may also consider candidates with a Bachelor's degree in a related field and significant research experience. Other eligibility criteria may include a minimum GPA requirement and proficiency in English.
PhD Geography and Earth Science Course Duration
A PhD program in Geography and Earth Science typically takes 4-6 years to complete, although the exact duration may vary depending on the candidate's research focus, progress, and other factors.
PhD Geography and Earth Science Selection Criteria
The selection criteria for a PhD program in Geography and Earth Science typically include academic credentials, research experience, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and performance on the entrance exam (if required). Some programs may also consider additional factors such as relevant work experience and extracurricular activities.
PhD Geography and Earth Science How to Apply
To apply for a PhD program in Geography and Earth Science, candidates should typically submit an online application form along with supporting documents such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. Some programs may also require candidates to submit GRE scores and a writing sample. Candidates should check the specific requirements of each program they are interested in and follow the application instructions carefully.
PhD Geography and Earth Science Application Form
The application form for a PhD program in Geography and Earth Science is typically available on the website of the university or college offering the program. Candidates should fill out the form online and submit it along with the required documents and application fee.
PhD Geography and Earth Science Application Process
The application process for a PhD program in Geography and Earth Science typically involves the following steps:
| Research Programs | Candidates should research different programs and universities to identify those that match their research interests and career goals. |
| Gather Required Documents | Candidates should gather all the required documents such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, statements of purpose, GRE scores, and writing samples. |
| Fill Out the Application Form | Candidates should fill out the online application form, upload the required documents, and pay the application fee. |
| Entrance Exam (if required) | Candidates may be required to take an entrance exam and submit their scores as part of the application process. |
| Interview (if required) | Some programs may require candidates to attend an interview with faculty members as part of the application process. |
| Admission Decision | The university or college will evaluate the application and make an admission decision. Successful candidates will receive an admission offer, while others may be waitlisted or denied admission. |
PhD Geography and Earth Science Fee Structure
The application fee for a PhD program in Geography and Earth Science varies depending on the university or college offering the program. The fee can range from $50 to $100, although some programs may waive the fee for eligible candidates.
PhD Geography and Earth Science Syllabus
The syllabus for a PhD program in Geography and Earth Science varies depending on the university or college offering the program and the candidate's research focus. However, some common topics covered in the program include:
Physical Geography and Earth Science Geospatial Analysis and Remote Sensing Environmental Science and Sustainability Natural Resource Management and Conservation Climate Change and its Impacts Hazards and Disaster Management Urbanization and Land Use Water Resources Management |
Job Profiles After Completed PhD Geography and Earth Science
Graduates of a PhD program in Geography and Earth Science can pursue a variety of career paths, including academia, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and industry. Some common job titles and average salaries in the US include:
| Jobs | Description |
| Geographical Information System Officer | As a GIS officer, you'll be involved in the collection of geographical and spatial information and its storage, analysis and presentation. You'll need to: use a range of GPS tools in the field to capture the location of 'assets' such as bridges, street lights, road barriers and flood defenses. |
| Environmental Consultant | Environmental consultants provide expert assessment and advisory services for their clients on matters pertaining to the management of environmental issues. Furthermore, you'll be responsible for making sure that revised environmental policies and procedures comply with environmental laws and regulations. |
| Cartographer | Cartographers are concerned with all aspects of map-making (scientific, technological and artistic). They are responsible for: researching, collecting, storing, retrieving, evaluating and manipulating data, designing maps. |
| Nature Conservation Officer | As a nature conservation officer you'll work to protect, manage and enhance the local environment. This can include grassland, woodland, forests, coastal areas, moorland, mountains and rivers. Depending on the region, you might also work in marine habitats. |
| Human Resources Specialist | The role of a Human Resource (HR) Specialist is to recruit, support, train, and place employees of a company. Depending on the company's size, a human resource department may have multiple specialists to perform specific tasks including overseeing performance reviews and maintaining employee records. |
PhD Geography and Earth Science Career Opportunities
A PhD in Geography and Earth Science can lead to a variety of career opportunities in academia, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and industry. Some common job titles include:
| Environmental Scientist |
| Geospatial Analyst |
| Research Scientist |
| Professor |
| Natural Resource Manager |
| Policy Analyst |
| Environmental Consultant |
| Urban Planner |
PhD Geography and Earth Science Top Colleges
Some top universities offering PhD programs in Geography and Earth Science include:
| University of California, Berkeley |
| University of Cambridge |
| University of Oxford |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) |
| University of Colorado Boulder |
| University of Michigan Ann Arbor |
| University of Washington |
| University of Bristol |
| University of Edinburgh |
| University of Toronto |
PhD in Admission Process
- Application for the entrance exam
- Result declaration
- Entrance pass scholar calling for the interview and document verification
- Provisional registration for pre Ph.D. course work classes
- Coursework classes shall be attended as scheduled by University
- Course work examination
- Result declaration of coursework
- Submission of synopsis ( 2 spiral bound copies with soft copy of synopsis)
- Departmental research committee meeting scheduled by University
- A registration letter shall be issued
- Research work started by scholar
- 6 progress reports shall be submitted
- Soft copy thesis submit
- plagiarism report check by the university
- Final after the plagiarism report soft copy thesis shall be sent to experts for evaluation
- After the consent of experts pre-submission, one set spiral binding shall be submitted
- After the successful presentation of the pre-submission thesis 3 copies of hard bound thesis shall be submitted
- Viva shall be conducted as scheduled by University, Degree Awarded.
Documents Required
|
FAQs About Ph.D. Program
Q.1 - What is the procedure for Ph.D.? Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - The Ph.D. and M.Phil. programs of prestigious Universities are conducted and guided strictly as per the provisions and regulations dictated by the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Ph.D./M.Phil. Degrees) (1st Amendment) Regulations, 2018 and subsequent amendments. The entire procedure for admission to the research programs encompasses a Research Entrance Exam (RET) and then an Interview/Viva Voce. The performance of a candidate in the RET is given 70% weightage, and the remaining 30% weightage is given to his/her performance at the Interview.
Q.2 - What are the modes of pursuing M.Phil. & Ph.D. programs at the University?
ANSWER: -Both the full-time and part-time modes are available at University for pursuing its Ph.D. programs and only the full-time mode is available for M.Phil. program in the desired subjects/fields. These highly-qualitative and prolific research programs are available in a rather broad range of fields/subjects. At University, the minimum time duration of the M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs is 1.5 Years and 3 Years, respectively, in general.
Q.3 - Are the Ph.D. and M.Phil. Degrees granted by any University valid abroad?
ANSWER: -Yes, of course. If the University is properly recognized under section 2(f) of the UGC Act of 1956 and is a prestigious member of the AIU (the Association of Indian Universities). It is an M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees granted in various fields/subjects are duly valid across India and the world.
Q.4 - What are the main eligibility criteria for participating in the University Research Entrance Exam (RET)?
ANSWER: -The following are the main eligibility conditions for participating in the RET: - A rigorous Master’s Degree in the proposed subject/field obtained from any recognized university/institution located in India or abroad, with a minimum 55% marks in aggregate or an equivalent grade. Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled categories are given a 5% relaxation in respect of this eligibility criterion. Candidates with an M.Phil. degree in the proposed field/subject, or have qualified for the UGC (JRF) Examinations/ NET/ SET/ SELT, etc., will be allowed to appear directly for the interview, without appearing in the RET. Impressive academic records, and any prior experience in research work, will be given additional advantages.
Q.5 - What relaxations are granted to the reserved categories for Ph.D.? Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - Candidates belonging to the categories of SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy layer)/Differently-Abled, and so on, are given all relaxations prescribed by the Govt. of India and the UGC. These relaxations are provided in form of 5% reduced marks for them at post-graduation, and also in the minimum qualifying marks at RET. Thus, candidates belonging to these categories only need to score a minimum of 45% marks at RET, to qualify for the final interview.
Q.6 - How will be the pattern of RET?
ANSWER: - The syllabus or pattern of RET consists of subject-specific matters, research methodology, and aptitude (covering logical reasoning, numerical ability, analytical reasoning, statistics, etc.).Thus, RET will contain a total of 70 multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
Q.7 - Are M.Phil. Holders/UGC- NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE exempted from appearing at RET?
ANSWER: - Yes. The holders of M.Phil. degrees in their respective fields/subjects are made exempt from appearing in RET. The same is the situation in cases of aspiring candidates who have qualified exams like UGC-NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE, etc.
Q.8 - How is the application fee paid?
ANSWER: - The Application Fee (i.e. the fee for getting participated in RET) can be paid online or offline, like the Application Form. Payment Modes: DD (in Favor of the University) / NEFT/ Cash Deposit.
Q.9 - Do working candidates require to obtain NOC from employers for pursuing research at any University?
ANSWER: - Yes, necessarily. Working Professionals who are interested in research at any University are required to obtain the NOC (No Objection Certificate) from their respective employers, in order to avert any intrusion ever during the entire doctoral course.
Q.10 - Does an M.Phil. holder require to undergo Ph.D. coursework?
ANSWER: - Yes. M.Phil. holders are again required to undergo the coursework in Ph.D. at some Universities. However, their prior knowledge in the field/subject will be very supportive to them for learning and performing efficiently during the Ph.D. program.
Q.11 - Can I pay the yearly program/course fee in installments?
ANSWER: - Yes, you can pay the yearly course fee as many as in two installments, but well within the yearly session.
Q.12 - Does Any University provide any scholarship or stipend to pursuing scholars?
ANSWER: - Yes, of course. Many Universities offer scholarships as well as stipends to meritorious and talented candidates who undertake research studies at the University. Scholarships are granted to those candidates who come under the top 21 by scoring higher marks in RET and interviews. And, stipends are provided to those scholars who also give lectures to UG or PG students at the University, in addition to doing their Ph.D. coursework. The amount of the monthly stipend will be commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and capabilities and may go up to Rs. 20,000.
Q.13 - What other many facilities are provided to research scholars at the University Campus?
ANSWER: - All necessary and constructive resources, amenities, and facilities are offered by well-established and prestigious universities to research scholars in various streams/subjects. These facilities include the following - spacious and peaceful study rooms, erudite and well-experienced academicians and research experts, Wi-Fi and diverse IT devices, state-of-the-art laboratories, well-stocked libraries, lavish R&D amenities, separate amenities for lodging and foods for male and female candidates, peaceful and constructive environment within the university campus, and many other comforting and convenient facilities and services.
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN GEOGRAPHY AND EARTH SCIENCE (PHD IN GEOGRAPHY AND EARTH SCIENCE)
Doctor of Philosophy in Geography and Earth Science (PhD in Geography and Earth Science) is a 3 Years Doctorate Degree Courses program that focuses on Doctor of Philosophy. The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills to prepare students for a career in Doctor of Philosophy.
Syllabus & Subjects
Quick Links
Get Course Details
Fill the form to receive complete course information