

M-A in Geography at BABU JAI SHANKER GAYAPRASAD MAHAVIDYALAYA, SUMERPUR, UNNAO


Unnao, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Geography at BABU JAI SHANKER GAYAPRASAD MAHAVIDYALAYA, SUMERPUR, UNNAO Unnao?
This M.A. Geography program at BABU JAI SHANKER GAYAPRASAD MAHAVIDYALAYA, affiliated with CSJM University, focuses on developing advanced understanding of Earth''''s physical and human landscapes. With a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, it equips students for diverse roles in environmental management, urban planning, and resource analysis, catering to the growing demand for spatial intelligence in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for Bachelor''''s graduates in Geography or allied disciplines seeking to deepen their expertise in spatial analysis and environmental studies. It also suits government job aspirants, researchers, and educators aiming for advanced qualifications. Individuals passionate about understanding human-environment interactions and contributing to sustainable development in India will find this program rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates can pursue careers in urban planning, disaster management, environmental consulting, demography, and teaching in India. Entry-level salaries range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience in government sectors, NGOs, and research institutions. The program aligns with competitive exams like UPSC, State PSCs, and UGC NET, offering robust growth trajectories.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Concepts & Terminology- (Semester 1)
Focus on building a strong theoretical foundation in Geomorphology, Climatology, Economic Geography, and Population Geography. Regularly review fundamental concepts and build a robust vocabulary for geographical discourse to excel in examinations.
Tools & Resources
Standard textbooks (e.g., Savindra Singh, R.D. Dikshit), NPTEL lectures for core subjects, University library databases
Career Connection
A solid theoretical base is critical for cracking competitive exams (UPSC, UGC NET) and for analytical roles requiring deep domain knowledge in geography-related fields.
Develop Foundational Practical Cartography Skills- (Semester 1)
Actively engage in practical sessions covering map projections, topographical map interpretation, and basic thematic mapping. Practice data visualization and interpretation using manual techniques to understand spatial relationships.
Tools & Resources
Drawing instruments and graph sheets, Topographical and weather maps, Basic cartography software (if available in labs)
Career Connection
These foundational practical skills are essential for entry-level roles in data collection, mapping, and basic spatial analysis in government departments and non-governmental organizations.
Cultivate Effective Study Habits & Peer Learning- (Semester 1)
Establish a consistent study routine, actively participate in class, and form study groups to discuss complex topics. Engage in active recall and spaced repetition for better retention of geographical theories and concepts.
Tools & Resources
College library and reading rooms, Online academic forums and discussion groups, Peer study groups for collaborative learning
Career Connection
Enhances collaborative skills, critical thinking, and time management, which are highly valued in any professional setting within India''''s dynamic job market.
Intermediate Stage
Acquire Statistical & Basic Digital Mapping Proficiency- (Semester 2-3)
Enhance practical skills by learning statistical methods for geographical data analysis (correlation, regression) and applying basic computer applications. Get introduced to basic Remote Sensing and GIS principles for data visualization.
Tools & Resources
MS Excel for data analysis, SPSS (if available in labs), Introductory QGIS/ArcGIS software, Google Earth Engine, ISRO''''s Bhuvan portal
Career Connection
These skills are crucial for roles in data analysis, research assistance, and contribute to a strong profile for government and private sector jobs requiring spatial data handling in India.
Engage in Focused Research and Field Studies- (Semester 2-3)
Undertake small research assignments or mini-projects applying concepts from Environmental Geography, Urban Geography, or Rural Development. Conduct basic fieldwork, data collection, and preliminary analysis in local areas.
Tools & Resources
Field survey forms and interview guides, GPS devices (smartphone apps), Local government reports and statistics, Academic journals for literature review
Career Connection
Develops research aptitude, problem-solving capabilities, and practical exposure to real-world geographical issues, preparing for research-oriented careers or higher studies in Indian institutions.
Network and Participate in Academic Events- (Semester 2-3)
Actively attend workshops, seminars, and guest lectures organized by the department or university. Engage with faculty and visiting experts to broaden perspectives and build professional connections within the geography community.
Tools & Resources
University and department events calendar, Professional geography associations (e.g., NGI), Online webinars and academic conferences
Career Connection
Expands professional network, provides insights into career opportunities, and fosters a deeper engagement with the academic community, beneficial for future collaborations or mentorship in India.
Advanced Stage
Master Advanced GIS, Remote Sensing & Project Execution- (Semester 4)
Focus on practical mastery of advanced GIS and Remote Sensing techniques, including image interpretation, spatial analysis, and advanced mapping. Apply these skills comprehensively in the final project/dissertation.
Tools & Resources
Advanced features of QGIS/ArcGIS software, ERDAS Imagine (if available), Specialized geospatial datasets, Academic mentorship from faculty
Career Connection
Directly prepares for high-demand roles in spatial data analysis, urban planning, disaster management, and environmental management across Indian public and private sectors.
Excel in Research Methodology & Dissertation Writing- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant effort to the Research Methodology paper and the culminating Project/Dissertation. Focus on rigorous data collection, analytical techniques, scientific writing, and effective presentation of findings.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases (JSTOR, Google Scholar), Citation management tools (e.g., Zotero), Statistical software and faculty advisors
Career Connection
Crucial for pursuing M.Phil/Ph.D. or for research and policy-making roles in government, NGOs, and think tanks within the Indian research ecosystem.
Prepare for Career & Higher Education Opportunities- (Semester 4)
Actively prepare for competitive examinations like UGC NET, UPSC, and State PSCs, or for placement interviews. Refine your resume, practice mock interviews, and identify potential employers or academic programs for further studies.
Tools & Resources
Career counseling services (if available), Online job portals (Naukri.com, LinkedIn), Previous year question papers and interview guides
Career Connection
Directly translates into successful placements, admissions to advanced degree programs, or securing coveted government positions within the Indian context, ensuring career progression.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree in Geography or an equivalent relevant discipline from a recognized university.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 72 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GEOG-101 | Geomorphology | Core | 4 | Fundamental Concepts of Geomorphology, Theories of Geomorphology, Denudation Chronology, Fluvial and Aeolian Processes, Coastal and Glacial Geomorphology |
| GEOG-102 | Climatology & Oceanography | Core | 4 | Composition & Structure of Atmosphere, Climatic Classifications, Atmospheric Pressure and Winds, Monsoons in India, Ocean Bottom Relief and Currents, Marine Resources |
| GEOG-103 | Economic Geography | Core | 4 | Concepts & Approaches in Economic Geography, World Agricultural Systems, Major Industries and their Location Theories, Industrial Regions of the World, Transport and International Trade |
| GEOG-104 | Geography of Population and Settlement | Core | 4 | Distribution & Growth of Population, Population Composition and Structure, Migration Theories and Patterns, Rural Settlement Patterns, Urbanization and City Systems |
| GEOG-105 | Practical - Cartography & Thematic Mapping | Practical | 2 | Map Projections, Topographical Map Interpretation, Weather Map Analysis, Thematic Mapping Techniques, Introduction to GIS and GPS |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GEOG-201 | Advanced Regional Geography | Core | 4 | Concepts of Region and Regionalization, Regionalization in India, Planning Regions and their Delimitation, Regional Imbalances and Development, Case Studies of Major World Regions |
| GEOG-202 | Agricultural Geography | Core | 4 | Approaches to Agricultural Geography, Determinants of Agriculture, Agricultural Systems of the World, Green Revolution and its Impact, Agricultural Regions of India |
| GEOG-203 | Social & Cultural Geography | Core | 4 | Concepts of Social Geography, Social Well-being and Inequality, Rural-Urban Fringe Dynamics, Cultural Regions and Diffusion, Indigenous People and their Geographies |
| GEOG-204 | Political Geography | Core | 4 | Nature & Scope of Political Geography, Theories of Political Geography, Geopolitics and World Order, Boundaries, Frontiers and Electoral Geography, India''''s Geopolitical Role and Challenges |
| GEOG-205 | Practical - Statistical Methods & Computer Application | Practical | 2 | Data Collection & Representation, Measures of Central Tendency & Dispersion, Correlation and Regression Analysis, Introduction to SPSS/GIS Software, Basic Remote Sensing Applications |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GEOG-301 | History of Geographical Thought | Core | 4 | Ancient & Medieval Geographical Thought, Contribution of Arab Geographers, Modern Geographical Thought and Paradigms, Quantitative Revolution and Behaviouralism, Radical, Humanistic, and Post-modern Approaches |
| GEOG-302 | Environmental Geography | Core | 4 | Concepts of Environment and Ecosystems, Environmental Degradation and Pollution, Climate Change and its Impacts, Environmental Policies and Laws in India, Sustainable Development and Conservation |
| GEOG-303 | Urban Geography | Core | 4 | Origin & Growth of Cities, Theories of Urban Structure and Morphology, Urban Hierarchy and Classification, Urbanization in India and its Problems, Urban Planning and Smart Cities |
| GEOG-304 | Rural Development & Planning | Core | 4 | Concepts of Rural Development, Rural-Urban Linkages and Migration, Rural Poverty and Livelihood Strategies, Watershed Development and Micro-Planning, Integrated Rural Development Programs in India |
| GEOG-305 | Practical - Remote Sensing & GIS | Practical | 2 | Principles of Remote Sensing, Aerial Photography and Satellite Imagery, Image Interpretation and Classification, GIS Data Models and Data Input, Geo-referencing and Spatial Analysis |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GEOG-401 | Regional Planning & Development | Core | 4 | Concept and Objectives of Planning, Types of Planning and Planning Models, Regional Imbalances and Disparities, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Planning Strategies and Policies in India |
| GEOG-402 | Disaster Management | Core | 4 | Concept and Classification of Disasters, Natural and Anthropogenic Disasters, Disaster Risk Reduction Strategies, Disaster Management Cycle, Case Studies of Disasters in India |
| GEOG-403 | Research Methodology in Geography | Core | 4 | Research Design and Problem Formulation, Data Collection Methods (Primary & Secondary), Sampling Techniques and Hypothesis Testing, Qualitative and Quantitative Research, Report Writing and Presentation Techniques |
| GEOG-404 | Geography of India | Core | 4 | Physical Divisions and Drainage System, Climate, Soils and Natural Vegetation, Mineral & Energy Resources of India, Major Industries and their Distribution, Population Characteristics and Problems |
| GEOG-405 | Project/Dissertation & Viva Voce | Project | 2 | Research Problem Identification, Literature Review and Data Collection, Methodology Design and Application, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Viva Voce Preparation |




