A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Geography and Environment is a research-based doctoral degree program that focuses on the interdisciplinary study of human and natural systems and the relationships between them. The program aims to prepare students for careers in academia, government, non-profit organizations, and private sector industries that involve environmental management, sustainable development, and geospatial analysis.
The coursework in a PhD program in Geography and Environment is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in research methods, geospatial analysis, environmental science, and social science theory. Students typically complete core courses in areas such as quantitative and qualitative research methods, geographic information systems (GIS), environmental policy, and sustainable development.
In addition to completing coursework, students in a PhD program in Geography and Environment must conduct original research and write a dissertation based on their research findings. The research may focus on a variety of topics, such as environmental sustainability, natural resource management, climate change, urbanization, land use, and spatial analysis. Students work closely with faculty advisors and research collaborators to design and implement their research projects.
Graduates of a PhD program in Geography and Environment are well-equipped to pursue careers in academia, research institutions, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private sector industries that require advanced expertise in geographic information systems, environmental science, and sustainable development. They may also work as consultants, policy analysts, or environmental managers, or go on to pursue postdoctoral research or further academic study.
Stream | Doctor of Philosophy |
Course Name | PhD in Geography and Environment |
Course Full Name | Doctor of Philosophy in Geography and Environment |
Eligibility Criteria | Master in relevant Subject with 55 % marks |
Course Duration | 3 Years |
Course Fee | Notified Soon |
Course Type | Degree |
Mode | Year |
Researching Programs: Prospective students should thoroughly research universities and programs offering PhD degrees in Geography and Environment. They should consider factors such as faculty expertise, research opportunities, funding options, and program reputation.
Meeting Admission Requirements: Applicants must ensure they meet the minimum admission criteria set by the university and the specific PhD program. This often includes holding a master's degree in geography, environmental science, or a related field, along with a strong academic record.
Preparing Application Materials: Applicants need to compile and submit various documents as part of their application package, including:
Interview (if required): Certain programs may conduct interviews with shortlisted candidates as part of the admissions process. These interviews, which can be conducted in person or via video conference, allow the admissions committee to assess the applicant's fit for the program and research potential.
Notification of Admission Decision: After reviewing all applications, the admissions committee will notify applicants of their admission status. Successful candidates will receive an offer of admission, while others may be placed on a waitlist or notified of rejection.
Acceptance and Enrollment: Accepted applicants must inform the university of their decision to accept or decline the admission offer by the specified deadline. They may also need to provide additional documentation, such as proof of English language proficiency for international students.
Orientation and Enrollment in the Program: Upon accepting the admission offer, students will receive information about orientation sessions, program requirements, and course registration. They will also have the opportunity to meet with faculty advisors to discuss their research interests and create a plan of study for their PhD program.
The candidate should have done their MSc/MA/MPhil in Geography with specialization and should have secured a minimum of 60%. |
1 | The duration of a PhD program in Geography and Environment typically ranges from 4-5 years, depending on the program and the student's research interests and progress. |
2 | The program involves coursework, independent research, and the writing of a dissertation. |
The selection criteria for a PhD program in Geography and Environment may include academic record, research experience and potential, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and performance on standardized tests (if required).
Applicants must typically submit an online application through the university's graduate admissions office.
The application will typically include transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, a writing sample, and test scores (if required).
Some programs may also require an interview or a research proposal.
It is important to review the specific application requirements and deadlines for each program before applying.
Candidates can typically apply to a PhD program in Geography and Environment online through the university's graduate admissions website.
The application process may involve submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, a writing sample, and test scores (if required).
Some programs may require an interview or a research proposal.
Semester 1 | Climatology Cartographic Techniques Geomorphology Geography of Population |
Semester 2 | Oceanography Thematic Cartography Geography of Settlements Physical Geography |
Semester 3 | Remote Sensing Economic Geography Environmental Geography Urban Geography |
Semester 4 | Geography of Natural Resource Geography of India Spatial Dimensions of Development |
Semester 5 | Biogeography Evolution of Geographical Thought Field Techniques Agricultural Geography |
Semester 6 | Disaster Management Geographical Information System Regional Planning Geography of Tourism |
CHINTAN | Clean Air Asia, India | NAVDANYA |
Greenpeace India | The Wildlife Protection Society of India | Hara Jeevan |
Help Delhi Breathe | Environics Trust | Institute for Sustainable Communities (ISC) |
The top colleges for a PhD program in Geography and Environment include:
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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.