Master of Science in Physical Geography

Program Overview

The Postgraduate Physical Geography program at Victoria University of Wellington focuses on research in Earth's processes and their interactions with the environment. Through fieldwork, laboratory work, and GIS expertise, students gain knowledge and skills in areas such as climate change, water resources, and natural hazards. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in environmental consultancies, government agencies, and research institutions. The program emphasizes hands-on learning and international connections, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of New Zealand's physical landscape and resources.

Program Outline

• The program focuses on research in Physical Geography, studying the Earth's processes and their interaction with the atmosphere, oceans, and human activities.
• The curriculum emphasizes gaining research skills and knowledge through fieldwork and laboratory work.
• Students will acquire expertise in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for mapping and analyzing Earth's features and changes.
However, we can identify some areas of study based on the information presented.
• Land and water resources
• Contemporary Earth surface processes (e.g., landslides, hydrology)
• Climate change
• Landscape stability
• Water resource management

Teaching

• Teaching methods: The program likely involves a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, fieldwork, and laboratory work.
• Faculty: The program is led by researchers internationally recognized for their work in geography and earth sciences.
Students will have opportunities to engage with members of the wider Wellington geoscience community.
• Unique approaches: The program emphasizes hands-on learning through fieldwork and laboratory work, allowing students to directly engage with the Earth's processes they are studying.

Careers

• Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in various sectors, including:
• Crown research institutes like GNS Science and NIWA
• Local, regional, or central government agencies
• Private environmental consultancies like Opus or Tonkin and Taylor
• Geospatial science
• Engineering geology
• The program equips graduates with a strong understanding of New Zealand's physical landscape and resources, making them highly sought-after by employers.

Other

• International connections: Students may have opportunities to collaborate with the University's Antarctic Research Centre or Climate Change Research Institute, renowned for their contributions to global environmental and climate research.
• Scholarships: Scholarships are available for students based on their level of study, subject area, and background.
• Community: Students will benefit from participating in events, seminars, workshops, and social functions organized by the Postgraduate Students' Association.
• Location: Wellington's proximity to various natural features like the South Island's glacial landscapes and the North Island's Volcanic Plateau provides additional learning opportunities.