Master of Geography (GMAG)

The Master of Geography programme is a strategic initiative aimed at transforming Uganda’s peasantry economy into a modern, sustainable, and high-standard living economy. Aligned with Uganda Vision 2040 and NDP III, the program focuses on sectoral transformations in water and environment, agriculture, ICT, and transport to enhance service delivery and economic development.

Geography, as the study of places and their relationships, plays a crucial role in understanding the physical and human aspects of Earth’s surface. The program seeks to address the deficiencies in the previous Master of Arts in Geography, ensuring inclusivity for disabled students and responding to the evolving demands of the market. Renamed as the Master of Geography, the program now encompasses a broader range of geography disciplines and attracts students from both arts and science backgrounds.

The program’s foundation lies in meeting international, regional, and national commitments, including Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Continental Education Strategy for Africa. It addresses the shortcomings of the outdated program, offering a more comprehensive curriculum to meet market needs and attract a diverse student body. The restructuring aligns with the new university framework implemented by Kyambogo University.

Programme Objectives: General Objective: Produce high-caliber graduates with analytical and problem-solving skills.

Specific Objectives:

1. Strengthen candidates’ knowledge and skills in contemporary geography.
2. Impart research and publication skills to students.
3. Empower students to drive social, economic, political, and environmental transformations.

Target Group

The strategy of this programme is to attract prospective students who intend to specialise in the domain of geography (human geography, biogeography, geoinformatics, and physical geography) to meet their professional needs with the aim of improving service delivery. This programme targets student graduates from universities and those serving in the private and public sectors. 

The specific requirements relating to admission into this program are:

1. Applicants of this programme should hold a first degree of at least lower second or its equivalent from a university or institution recognised at the national level by NCHE. Applicants with a 1^st class or upper second-degree class may not require working experience to be admitted.
2. The relevant admissible disciplines include a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree in geography and related fields such as Agriculture, Forestry, Soil Science, Meteorology, Hydrology/ or Water resources, Geology, Environmental Science, Social Sciences, Economics, Tourism, information technology, Environmental management, Urban planning, Population studies, Gender, Botany, Zoology, Civil Engineering and Surveying from a recognized University or Institution.

On completion of this programme, the graduates shall be able to:

1. Have authority or specialise in any field of geography
2. Develop fundable proposals to steer research, innovation, and development
3. Promote sustainable development
4. Publish research findings in credible publication houses

1. Geospatial Analyst: Utilize advanced skills in geographical information systems (GIS) and geoinformatics to analyze spatial data for industries such as urban planning, environmental management, and disaster response.
2. Environmental Consultant: Guide organizations in navigating environmental regulations and sustainability practices, ensuring compliance, and promoting eco-friendly solutions.
3. Researcher in Sustainable Development: Contribute to academic institutions or research organizations, focusing on sustainable development initiatives and solutions, aligning with international commitments and goals.
4. Urban Planner: Shape the future of cities by applying geographic knowledge to plan and design sustainable urban spaces, considering factors such as infrastructure, transportation, and environmental impact.
5. Climate Change Analyst: Work on understanding and mitigating the impact of climate change, collaborating with government agencies, NGOs, or research institutions to develop strategies for adaptation.
6. Policy Analyst: Influence public policies related to geography, sustainability, and environmental issues, providing valuable insights for governmental bodies, NGOs, or international organizations.
7. International Development Specialist: Contribute to global development initiatives, working on projects that address socio-economic and environmental challenges in developing countries.
8. GIS Software Developer: Combine programming skills with geographic expertise to develop innovative GIS applications and tools, meeting the increasing demand for technology-driven solutions.
9. Natural Resource Manager: Oversee the sustainable management of natural resources, balancing ecological conservation with economic development, in roles within government agencies or environmental organizations.
10. Academic and Educator Roles: Pursue a career in academia as a lecturer or researcher, sharing knowledge and shaping the next generation of geographers.
11. Spatial Data Scientist: Analyze and interpret spatial data, applying statistical and computational methods to derive meaningful insights for various industries, including business and healthcare.
12. International Relations Specialist: Navigate the intersection of geography and global affairs, contributing to diplomatic efforts, international cooperation, and cross-cultural understanding.

The Master of Geography program prepares graduates for diverse and dynamic career paths, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to address contemporary challenges and contribute to sustainable development at local, national, and global levels.