Master of Arts in Geography and Geographical Information System
Program Overview
Through coursework and a thesis, graduates develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills for careers in environmental planning, urban and regional planning, and other fields related to geography and GIS. The program emphasizes the role of technology in solving contemporary issues and fostering sustainable development.
Program Outline
The program emphasizes the importance of technological advancements in the field and their role in solving problems related to economy, population, society, the physical environment, and development. The program's objectives include:
- Providing students with a comprehensive understanding of geographical concepts and theories.
- Developing students' skills in geographical research methods and techniques.
- Equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to apply geographical principles to real-world problems.
- Fostering students' critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
- Preparing students for careers in various fields related to geography and GIS.
Outline:
The program is structured around a combination of coursework and a thesis. Students are required to complete 28 credit hours of coursework and 6 credit hours for the thesis, totaling 34 credit hours for graduation. The program is designed to be completed within two academic years (four semesters).
Course Schedule:
First Year:
- Semester One:
- Geo 529: Geographical Methods and Approaches (2 credit hours)
- Geo 530: Seminar in Geography (1) (2 credit hours)
- Geo 531: Advanced Methods of Geographical Analysis (2 credit hours)
- Geo 532: Geographical Texts in a Foreign Language (2 credit hours)
- Specialized Course (1) (2 credit hours)
- Specialized Course (2) (2 credit hours)
- Optional Course (1) (2 credit hours)
- Semester Two:
- Geo 534: Implementation and Research Design (2 credit hours)
- Geo 535: Seminar in Geography (2) (2 credit hours)
- Geo 536: GIS and Remote Sensing Applications (2 credit hours)
- GEOG 401: Field Training (2 credit hours)
- Specialized Course (3) (2 credit hours)
- Specialized Course (4) (2 credit hours)
- Optional Course (2) (2 credit hours)
Second Year:
- Semester One:
- Thesis (6 credit hours)
- Semester Two:
- Thesis (6 credit hours)
Individual Modules:
- Specialized Courses: Students can choose from a variety of specialized courses within six tracks:
- Economic Geography & Development
- Demographic Studies and Sustainable Development
- Urbanization and Urban Planning
- Climatic Studies
- Biological Geography
- Geomorphology
- Optional Courses: Students can select from a range of elective courses, including:
- Geo 539: Development Plans and National Strategies in Saudi Arabia: Areas of Geographic Research (2 credit hours)
- Geo 540: Geology and Geomorphology of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (2 credit hours)
- Geo 541: Climatic Changing (Ancient & Modern) (2 credit hours)
- Geo 542: The Geography of Housing (2 credit hours)
- Geo 543: Behavioral Geography (2 credit hours)
- Geo 544: World Reports (2 credit hours)
Assessment:
- Coursework: Students are assessed through a combination of exams, assignments, and presentations.
- Thesis: The thesis is a major research project that requires students to conduct original research and write a comprehensive dissertation. The thesis is defended before a panel of referees.
Teaching:
- Teaching Methods: The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, workshops, field trips, and independent research.
- Faculty: The program is taught by experienced faculty members with expertise in various areas of geography and GIS.
Careers:
- Potential Career Paths: Graduates of the program are prepared for careers in a variety of fields, including:
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- Environmental Planning and Management
- Urban and Regional Planning
- Remote Sensing
- Cartography
- Geographic Education
- Research and Development
Other:
- Program System: The program is conducted through courses and a thesis.
- Graduation Requirements:
- Passing all subjects with a minimum grade of good (B) and a minimum GPA of very good (3.75).
- Successful defense of the thesis before a panel of referees and the completion of corrections (if any) as per the instructions of the panel referees.
Imam Abdul Rahman Bin Faisal University
Overview:
Imam Abdul Rahman Bin Faisal University (IAU) is a public university located in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. It is known for its commitment to academic excellence, research, and community service. IAU has been recognized for its achievements in various rankings, including the Times Higher Education World University Rankings and the QS Arab Region University Rankings.
Services Offered:
IAU offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Student Affairs:
The Deanship of Student Affairs provides support and guidance to students in various aspects of their academic and personal lives.Human Resources:
The General Directorate of Human Resources manages the university's workforce and ensures the well-being of its employees.Alumni and Career Development:
The Alumni and Career Development Center provides support to graduates in their career pursuits and fosters connections between alumni and the university.Library:
The Directorate of Library Affairs offers access to a vast collection of resources, including books, journals, and online databases.Admissions and Registration:
The Deanship of Admissions and Registration handles the admission process for new students and manages student records.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Key Reasons to Study There:
Academic Excellence:
IAU is recognized for its high-quality academic programs and its commitment to research.International Recognition:
IAU has achieved high rankings in various international university rankings, demonstrating its commitment to academic excellence.Community Service:
IAU encourages students to engage in community service and make a positive impact on society.State-of-the-Art Facilities:
IAU provides students with access to modern facilities, including libraries, laboratories, and research centers.Academic Programs:
IAU offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:
Medicine:
IAU is home to King Fahd Hospital, a renowned medical facility that provides students with hands-on clinical experience.Engineering:
IAU has a strong engineering program, with a focus on research and innovation.Business and Economics:
IAU offers programs in business administration, economics, and finance, preparing students for successful careers in the business world.Arts and Humanities:
IAU offers programs in literature, languages, history, and other humanities disciplines.Other:
IAU is committed to sustainability and has implemented various initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. The university also has a strong focus on research and has established several research centers dedicated to various fields of study.
Entry Requirements:
- To obtain a BA in Geography from a Saudi university or a university recognized by the Ministry of Education.
- To pass a written exam with a score of at least 70%.
- To pass an interview with a score of at least 70%.
