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B-A-HONS in Geography at Patna Women's College
Patna, Bihar
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About the Specialization
What is Geography at Patna Women's College Patna?
This Geography Honours program at Patna Women''''s College focuses on understanding the Earth''''s physical features, human societies, and their complex interactions. Emphasizing analytical and spatial reasoning, it prepares students for careers addressing India''''s critical challenges like urban planning, disaster management, and sustainable resource use. The curriculum integrates traditional geographical concepts with modern techniques like GIS and remote sensing, crucial for real-world applications in the Indian context.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates seeking entry into government services, environmental consulting, or research. It also suits individuals passionate about environmental conservation, urban development, or those aspiring for higher studies in regional planning and social sciences. Students with a strong interest in interdisciplinary studies and data analysis will find this specialization highly rewarding, preparing them for diverse career paths in India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as urban planners, environmental consultants, GIS analysts, demographers, or researchers in government bodies and NGOs. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Opportunities also exist in civil services, teaching, and journalism, aligning with the growing demand for spatial analysis and environmental expertise in Indian companies.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Geographical Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand fundamental concepts in geomorphology, climatology, and cartography. Actively participate in practical sessions to build foundational skills in map interpretation and basic surveying, which are essential for all subsequent studies in Geography.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks, Topographical Maps, Surveying Equipment, Peer Study Groups
Career Connection
A strong conceptual base is critical for cracking competitive exams like UPSC (Civil Services) and state PSCs, and for further specialized studies or research in any geographical domain.
Develop Academic Writing and Communication Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on improving essay writing, report preparation, and presentation skills through regular practice. Utilize the AECC courses to refine English communication and critically analyze geographical texts and data. Seek feedback from professors to enhance clarity and coherence.
Tools & Resources
College Writing Center, Grammarly, Academic Journals, Public Speaking Clubs
Career Connection
Effective communication is vital for presenting research findings, writing reports for government bodies or NGOs, and excelling in interviews for various roles in India.
Cultivate Environmental Awareness and Field Observation- (Semester 1-2)
Engage with environmental studies by participating in college environmental clubs, attending workshops, and conducting local field observations. This builds a practical understanding of human-environment interactions crucial for many geographical careers. Document observations through journaling or photography.
Tools & Resources
Local NGOs, Environmental documentaries, Field Visit Reports, Nature Clubs
Career Connection
This practice fosters a foundational understanding for careers in environmental management, conservation, and sustainable development, which are growing fields in India.
Intermediate Stage
Proficiency in Statistical and Geospatial Tools- (Semester 3-5)
Actively engage with courses like Statistical Methods and Remote Sensing & GIS Fundamentals. Practice data analysis using software like MS Excel and explore open-source GIS platforms (e.g., QGIS). Apply these skills to analyze real geographical data sets, enhancing your quantitative abilities.
Tools & Resources
QGIS, MS Excel, Geospatial Data Portals (e.g., Bhuvan, ISRO), Online GIS Tutorials
Career Connection
These technical skills are highly sought after by employers in urban planning, disaster management, environmental consulting, and data analytics firms across India.
Undertake Mini-Projects and Internships- (Semester 3-5)
Seek opportunities for short-term internships with local government departments (e.g., municipal corporations, planning boards), NGOs working on environmental issues, or research institutions. Even small projects or voluntary roles can provide invaluable practical exposure to real-world geographical applications.
Tools & Resources
College Placement Cell, Internship Portals (Internshala), Faculty Mentors
Career Connection
Internships provide hands-on experience, build a professional network, and significantly boost your resume for placements in India''''s diverse geographical sectors.
Participate in Academic Competitions and Seminars- (Semester 3-5)
Engage in inter-college quizzes, debate competitions, and student seminars focusing on geographical themes. Present your ideas and research findings to a wider audience. This enhances critical thinking, public speaking, and confidence, vital for future academic and professional pursuits.
Tools & Resources
Departmental Notices, University Events, Online Academic Forums
Career Connection
Such participation hones soft skills and showcases your expertise, making you a more competitive candidate for scholarships, higher education, and competitive job roles.
Advanced Stage
Specialize and Conduct Independent Research- (Semester 6)
Choose Discipline Specific Electives (DSEs) that align with your career interests (e.g., Urban Geography, Disaster Management, Population Geography). Undertake a comprehensive project report or dissertation in your final semester, applying all learned skills to a specific geographical problem. Focus on original data collection and analysis.
Tools & Resources
Research Databases, Statistical Software (R, SPSS), Field Survey Tools, Academic Advisers
Career Connection
A strong research project is a testament to your analytical capabilities, crucial for postgraduate studies, research positions, and specialized roles in policy-making or NGOs.
Network with Industry Professionals and Alumni- (Semester 6)
Attend industry conferences, workshops, and alumni meet-ups. Connect with professionals working in urban planning, environmental science, GIS, and civil services. Learn about current industry trends and potential career opportunities, seeking mentorship and guidance for your career path.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional Associations (e.g., IGES), Alumni Association, Career Fairs
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to job opportunities, informational interviews, and mentorship, providing a significant advantage in the competitive Indian job market.
Prepare for Higher Education and Career Placement- (Semester 6)
Start preparing early for competitive entrance exams for Master''''s programs (e.g., MA Geography, M.Sc. GIS) or civil services examinations. Polish your resume, practice interview skills, and actively participate in campus placement drives. Seek career counseling for tailored guidance.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/State PSC Coaching, GRE/CAT Study Materials, Mock Interview Sessions, College Career Cell
Career Connection
Proactive preparation ensures a smooth transition from college to a successful career or higher academic pursuit, maximizing your potential in diverse sectors of the Indian economy.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Pass in Intermediate (10+2) or equivalent examination recognized by Patna University
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 148 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGEG101 | Geomorphology | Core Course (CC 1) | 6 | Nature and Scope of Geomorphology, Earth''''s Interior and Continental Drift, Plate Tectonics and Orogenesis, Folding, Faulting and Volcanism, Weathering, Erosion and Denudation |
| PGEG102 | Cartographic Techniques I | Core Course (CC 2) | 6 | Fundamentals of Cartography, Scales: Types and Conversion, Map Projections: Classification and Properties, Topographical Maps of India, Weather Maps and Data Representation |
| PGEN103 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (AECC 1) | 4 | Multidisciplinary Nature of Environmental Studies, Natural Resources: Renewable and Non-renewable, Ecosystems: Structure and Function, Biodiversity and Conservation, Environmental Pollution: Causes and Control |
| GE1 | Generic Elective Course | Generic Elective (GE 1) | 6 | Students choose one generic elective from other disciplines, Interdisciplinary subject relevant to broad academic interest |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGEG201 | Climatology | Core Course (CC 3) | 6 | Nature and Scope of Climatology, Composition and Structure of Atmosphere, Insolation, Temperature and Heat Budget, Atmospheric Pressure, Winds and Monsoons, Humidity, Precipitation and Cloud Formation, Air Masses, Fronts and Cyclones |
| PGEG202 | Cartographic Techniques II | Core Course (CC 4) | 6 | Surveying Techniques: Principles and Classification, Prismatic Compass Surveying, Plane Table Surveying, Dumpy Level and Contouring, Theodolite Surveying |
| AECC2 | English Communication / MIL Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (AECC 2) | 4 | Fundamentals of Communication, Reading Comprehension and Writing Skills, Grammar and Vocabulary, Oral Communication and Presentation Skills, Interpersonal Communication |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGEG301 | Oceanography | Core Course (CC 5) | 6 | Nature and Scope of Oceanography, Ocean Bottom Relief, Ocean Salinity and Temperature, Ocean Currents: Causes and Types, Tides, Waves and Tsunamis, Marine Deposits and Resources |
| PGEG302 | Economic Geography | Core Course (CC 6) | 6 | Nature and Scope of Economic Geography, Classification of Economic Activities, Primary Activities: Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing, Secondary Activities: Manufacturing Industries, Tertiary and Quaternary Activities, Theories of Industrial Location |
| PGEG303 | Statistical Methods in Geography | Core Course (CC 7) | 6 | Nature of Geographical Data and Sources, Sampling Techniques, Measures of Central Tendency, Measures of Dispersion, Correlation and Regression Analysis |
| PGEG304 | Remote Sensing & GIS Fundamentals | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC 1) | 4 | Introduction to Remote Sensing, Electromagnetic Radiation and Spectral Signatures, Remote Sensing Platforms and Sensors, Introduction to Geographical Information System (GIS), GIS Data Models and Database |
| GE2 | Generic Elective Course | Generic Elective (GE 2) | 6 | Students choose one generic elective from other disciplines, Interdisciplinary subject relevant to broad academic interest |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGEG401 | Human Geography | Core Course (CC 8) | 6 | Nature and Scope of Human Geography, Human Races and Culture, Population Distribution, Growth and Density, Population Composition and Migration, Rural and Urban Settlement Patterns |
| PGEG402 | Regional Planning and Development | Core Course (CC 9) | 6 | Concept of Region and Regionalization, Theories of Regional Development, Approaches to Regional Planning, Backward Regions and Disparities in India, Planning for Sustainable Regional Development |
| PGEG403 | Environmental Geography | Core Course (CC 10) | 6 | Nature and Scope of Environmental Geography, Man-Environment Relationship, Environmental Hazards and Disasters, Environmental Pollution and Degradation, Environmental Management and Policies, Sustainable Development Goals |
| PGEG404 | Computer Application in Geography | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC 2) | 4 | Introduction to Computer Hardware and Software, Operating Systems and MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Internet and World Wide Web, Geographical Data Processing and Analysis, Digital Mapping Concepts |
| GE3 | Generic Elective Course | Generic Elective (GE 3) | 6 | Students choose one generic elective from other disciplines, Interdisciplinary subject relevant to broad academic interest |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGEG501 | Geography of India | Core Course (CC 11) | 6 | Location, Extent and Frontiers of India, Physiographic Divisions of India, Drainage System and Climate of India, Soils, Natural Vegetation and Wildlife, Agricultural Regions and Major Crops, Mineral and Energy Resources of India |
| PGEG502 | Biogeography | Core Course (CC 12) | 6 | Nature and Scope of Biogeography, Ecosystem: Components and Function, Biogeochemical Cycles, Major Biomes of the World, Biodiversity and its Hotspots, Conservation of Biodiversity |
| PGEG503A | Urban Geography | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE 1A) | 6 | Nature and Scope of Urban Geography, Origin and Growth of Cities, Urbanization and its Trends, Functional Classification of Towns, Urban Problems and Planning in India |
| PGEG503B | Agricultural Geography | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE 1B) | 6 | Nature and Scope of Agricultural Geography, Agricultural Systems of the World, Factors Affecting Agriculture, Major Crops and their Distribution, Green Revolution and Food Security, Agricultural Regions of India |
| PGEG504A | Disaster Management | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE 2A) | 6 | Concept of Disaster and Hazard, Natural and Man-Made Disasters, Disaster Management Cycle, Disaster Mitigation and Preparedness, Case Studies of Disasters in India |
| PGEG504B | Social and Cultural Geography | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE 2B) | 6 | Nature and Scope of Social and Cultural Geography, Society and Culture: Concepts and Interrelationships, Social Groups and Social Well-being, Cultural Regions of the World, Religion, Language and Ethnicity in Geography |
| GE4 | Generic Elective Course | Generic Elective (GE 4) | 6 | Students choose one generic elective from other disciplines, Interdisciplinary subject relevant to broad academic interest |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGEG601 | Political Geography | Core Course (CC 13) | 6 | Nature and Scope of Political Geography, State, Nation and Nation-State Concepts, Frontiers, Boundaries and Geopolitics, Electoral Geography and Spatial Politics, International Organizations and Global Governance |
| PGEG602 | Geography of Resources | Core Course (CC 14) | 6 | Nature and Concept of Resources, Classification and Distribution of Resources, Land Resources and their Utilization, Water Resources and Management, Mineral and Energy Resources, Resource Conservation and Sustainable Use |
| PGEG603A | Population Geography | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE 3A) | 6 | Nature and Scope of Population Geography, Sources of Population Data, Population Theories and Dynamics, Population Distribution and Density, Population Composition and Structure, Migration: Types, Causes and Consequences |
| PGEG603B | Geography of Tourism | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE 3B) | 6 | Nature and Scope of Tourism Geography, Types and Forms of Tourism, Tourist Resources and Attractions, Impacts of Tourism: Economic, Social, Environmental, Sustainable Tourism Development, Tourism in India: Potential and Challenges |
| PGEG604A | Urban and Regional Planning in India | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE 4A) | 6 | Evolution of Urban Planning in India, Planning Organizations and Agencies, Urban Development Policies and Programs, Smart Cities Mission and Urban Governance, Rural Planning and Development Initiatives |
| PGEG604B | Project Report / Dissertation | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE 4B) | 6 | Research Methodology and Problem Formulation, Data Collection Techniques (Primary and Secondary), Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Academic Presentation, Case Study/Fieldwork based Project |
