PhD in Geography Admission 2024-25, NIRF Ranking, Faculties, Learn More About Courses

PhD in Geography About

PhD Geography is a research based doctoral course in Geography which is devoted to the study of lands, features, inhabitants and phenomena of the earth & planets. The minimum duration of a PhD Geography course is 3 years, but can be extended depending on research duration. The basic eligibility for this course is completing Post Graduation in Geography from a recognized university. Though minimum marks required vary from college to college, most of the reputed colleges demand minimum 55% marks in their masters’ degree and a minimum of 60% marks in their graduation.

The coursework for a Ph.D. in Geography typically includes advanced courses in topics such as geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, spatial analysis, and research methods. Students will also be expected to complete original research and write a dissertation that contributes new knowledge to the field.

A Ph.D. in Geography can lead to a variety of career paths, including academic positions in universities and research institutions, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private industry. Graduates may work as geographers, cartographers, urban planners, environmental consultants, GIS analysts, or data scientists.

PhD in Geography Course Highlights

PhD in Geography Entrance Exam

• Many universities require applicants for a PhD in Geography to take a standardized entrance exam such as the GRE (Graduate Record Examination).
• The exam assesses a student's aptitude in verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing.
• However, the entrance exam requirements vary by institution, so students should check the specific requirements of the university they are interested in.

PhD in Geography Admission Process

Admission to a PhD program in Geography is typically highly competitive, and students must meet several requirements to be considered. These requirements may include a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher, a strong statement of purpose outlining their research interests, a research proposal, letters of recommendation, and an interview.

PhD in Geography Eligibility Criteria

PhD in Geography Course Duration

• A PhD program in Geography usually takes between four and six years to complete.
• The exact duration of the program depends on the research project's scope, the time it takes to collect data, and the time it takes to write and defend the dissertation.

PhD in Geography Selection Criteria

Selection criteria for a PhD program in Geography may vary by institution. However, some common factors that universities consider include undergraduate and graduate coursework, research experience, the quality of the research proposal, and the student's academic achievements.

PhD in Geography How to Apply

PhD in Geography Application Form

• The application form for a PhD program in Geography is typically available on the university's website or through an online application portal.
• Students must complete the application form, submit supporting documents and pay the application fee.

PhD in Geography Application Process

The application process for a PhD program in Geography involves several steps. These include:

1. Researching potential programs and universities
2. Checking the eligibility requirements and application criteria of the university
3. Preparing a strong statement of purpose and research proposal
4. Gathering letters of recommendation and transcripts
5. Taking the entrance exam, if required
6. Submitting the application form and supporting documents
7. Following up with the university to ensure the application is complete

PhD in Geography Fee Structure

The application fee for a PhD program in Geography varies by institution.the fee Structure will be coming soon.

PhD in Geography Syllabus

The syllabus for a PhD program in Geography varies by institution and area of specialization. However, common topics covered in the program include:

PhD in Geography Salary and Jobs

The salary and job prospects for graduates with a PhD in Geography are varied and dependent on the field of specialization. Graduates can find employment in academia, government, research institutions, NGOs, and private sector organizations. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for geographers in 2020 was $82,220. However, salaries vary by industry, location, and experience.

PhD in Geography Career Opportunities

PhD Doctor of Philosophy in Geography Top Colleges

Some of the top colleges for a PhD in Geography include:

• University of California-Berkeley
• University of Colorado-Boulder
• University of Wisconsin-Madison
• University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill
• Pennsylvania State University
• University of Oregon
• University of Arizona
• University of Washington
• University of Texas-Austin
• Michigan State University.

PH.D. ADMISSION PROCEDURE

1. Application for the entrance exam 
2.  Result declaration
3. Entrance pass scholar calling for the interview and document verification
4. Provisional registration for pre Ph.D. course work classes
5. Coursework classes shall be attended as scheduled by University
6. Course work examination
7. Result declaration of coursework
8. Submission of synopsis ( 2 spiral bound copies with soft copy of synopsis)
9. Departmental research committee meeting scheduled by University
10. A registration letter shall be issued
11. Research work started by scholar
12. 6 progress reports shall be submitted
13. Soft copy thesis submit
14. plagiarism report check by the university
15. Final after the plagiarism report soft copy thesis shall be sent to experts for evaluation
16. After the consent of experts pre-submission, one set spiral binding shall be submitted
17. After the successful presentation of the pre-submission thesis 3 copies of hard bound thesis shall be  submitted
18. Viva shall be conducted as scheduled by University, Degree Awarded.

DOCUMENTS CHECKLIST

1.  Documents (10th onwards)
2. Aadhar Card/Pan Card, Caste Certificate
3. Migration Certificate (Original)
4. NOC (From Organization/ Institute/ University)
5. Affidavit (undertaking)
6. Guide Willing
7. Assignments
8. Synopsis (3 copies), Progress Report
9. Library No Dues
10. Lab Letter
11. Thesis Hard copy (Spiral binding)
12. No Dues, Thesis (6 hard copies)
13. Affidavit -Submission (on Rs 100 Stamp and Notary Attested)
14. C.D Soft copies (Thesis & Synopsis)
15. Conference Certificate - 2
16. Research Papers -2 (with ISSN No.)
17. summary (page limit 20-30) -3 Copies 
18. Plagiarism Report Below 10%

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.