Geography is the dynamic study of Earth’s landscapes, environments, and the complex relationships between people and their surroundings.
At UKZN, our Geography programme equips students with the knowledge and skills to tackle pressing global challenges—from climate change and urban development to food security and sustainable resource management.
Through a blend of classroom learning, cutting-edge geospatial technologies (GIS/remote sensing), and hands-on fieldwork in South Africa’s diverse ecosystems, you’ll gain practical experience in analyzing spatial patterns and solving real-world problems. Our graduates emerge as skilled professionals ready for careers in environmental consulting, urban planning, disaster management, and geospatial analysis—prepared to make meaningful contributions to both local communities and global sustainability efforts.
Geography bridges the physical and social sciences to address critical global challenges like climate change, urbanization, and sustainable development.
At UKZN, you’ll explore dynamic interactions between humans and the environment through cutting-edge GIS technology, fieldwork in Africa’s diverse landscapes, and research on pressing issues like water scarcity or spatial inequality.
This degree opens doors to careers in environmental management, urban planning, disaster risk reduction, and geospatial analysis—equipping you to solve real-world problems while shaping policies for a more resilient future.
Hydrology studies the complex water systems of the planet, the occurrence, distribution, movement, quality and properties of the waters of the Earth and their relationship with the environment.
At UKZN, our Environmental Science programme offers a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, preparing graduates to become leaders in environmental conservation, resource management, and policy development.
The three-year undergraduate, focussed programme leading to the degree of Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Geography is offered on the Pietermaritzburg, Howard and Westville Campuses.
A one-year specialist programme leading to the degree of Bachelor of Science (Honours). A minimum of 50% must be achieved at BSc level to gain admittance to Honours.
Honours programmes in Geography (PMB, WVL & Howard) are offered.
A Master of Science programme is offered, whereby students engage in research under the supervision of an academic staff member. A minimum of a BSc Honours degree or equivalent must be achieved to be considered for this programme. This is typically two years of full time study.
A Doctor of Philosophy programme is offered where students engage in novel research supervised by academic members of staff. This is typically three years of full-time study and normally follows on from a Master of Science Degree.
To apply, please visit our School’s Undergraduate or Postgraduate page for step-by-step instructions, downloadable application forms, and the online application link.
The Centre for the Advancement of Science and Engineering (CASSE) provides alternative access to students, predominantly from disadvantaged educational backgrounds, who do not meet the standard entry requirements for science and engineering qualifications.
This structured approach provides academic support while ensuring students graduate with the same qualification as their mainstream peers.
For detailed information about the augmented programmes in the College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, please visit:
The Discipline of Geography offers Bachelor’s, Honours, Postgraduate Diploma, Master’s, and PhD programmes, providing students with opportunities to advance from foundational studies to specialised research.
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