The study programme in Geography, which is integrated and developed in a progressive way, revolves around three main subject areas. Firstly, Physical Geography which includes the study of the functioning and changes of the climate,the forms of relief and vegetation. Secondly, Human Geography which analyses how and why human activities are developed in certain places and how these decisions collectively lead to spatial structures. Thirdly, the Geographical Analysis Techniques which include cartography, geographical information and the methods used for processing and interpreting spatial data, notably via satellites.
The courses include practical work, field trips and a project which will help the student to witness concrete problems first hand and to gain experience in finding appropriate solutions.
In accordance with his personal ambitions and in concertation with the Study Advisor, the student may envisage completing his training in Geography by choosing additional options, for a total of 180 credits, or by opting for a minor to be chosen from the University programme.
Principal Subjects
Foundation courses (57 credits)
- Mathematics, Statistics (16 credits)
- Physics (20 credits)
- Chemistry (10 credits)
- Biology (11 credits)
Related subjects (25 credits)
- Earth Sciences (17 credits)
- Economics (8 credits)
Geography (57 credits)
- Human Geography (16 credits)
- Physical Geography (17 credits)
- Techniques (20 credits)
- Project (4 credits)
Languages
- English (6 credits)
Philosophy (2 credits)
Free Options (3 credits)
The first quadrimester of the first year is similar to the bachelor programmes in Chemistry, Biology and Bio-Engineering to facilitate study re-orientation from these programmes at the end of this first quadrimester. Re-orientation may also be possible upon completion of the first year, subject to complementary sessions.
This first year of studies is composed, in essence, of basic subjects. The student will also choose an extra optional activity. The project is based on team work and initiates the students to the main problems of contemporary geography. The opportunity to do the course on Organic Chemistry is in line with the polyvalence of the first year of the bachelor programmes in Biology and in Chemistry.
The second year includes basic course complements (Physics, Statistics), related subject areas (Geology, Meteorology,...) and introductions to the different branches of geography and geographical techniques. The course on Political Economics may be substituted by a course on Microeconomics and Macroeconomics for those students who enrol on a minor in Economics.
The third year is specifically dedicated to the study of geography. A minimal core of knowledge is provided in the major via part of the courses in Human Geography and in Physical Geography. On the other hand, it is essential for all the students to have followed the three courses on Geographical Techniques. The reinforcing minor implies following these courses in their entirety. The programme may possibly be completed by choosing extra options, subject to the approval of the study advisor.