What is geography ?

Geography is the study of the organization of space by social groups and individuals (towns, borders, distances, etc.) and, conversely, the role of space in the organization of society.

What are the main themes of geography?

The themes currently at the centre of geographical research include: globalization, migration, social exclusion and integration, sustainable development, culture-nature relations, North-South relations, urban development and urban planning. In terms of academic study, there is also of course a focus on theoretical, methodological and epistemological issues.

Physical geography and human geography…

One of the main interests for geographers is in combining research on physical space (soil properties, relief, resources, geology, etc.) with research on human space (population, economy, culture, etc.). Whilst the IGG places emphasis on the human aspects of Geography, this is by no means to the neglect of the fundamentals of physical geography and of the relationships between human society and the environment. If students wish, they may reinforce their knowledge of physical geography by taking additional modules with the Faculty of Sciences.

Research methods

In addition to its own research methods (such as landscape analysis or the study of maps), geography also makes use of those known to the human and social sciences in general. Research in geography often combines a qualitative approach (including interviews and text or image analysis, for example) with a quantitative approach (cartography, statistics, surveys, etc.).

Course content

In order that students may be best prepared for the professional workplace, the IGG places importance on taught modules, but also, and especially, on interactive and practical forms of learning and teaching (seminars, reading groups, practical training, etc) and on fieldwork oriented learning (excursions, etc.).

Opportunities for graduates

Geography is taught at secondary school level. About a third of our students choose this path, whilst other graduates have gone on to a range of careers, including:

• public administration;
• independent offices (environmental or urban planning, for example);
• international and/or non-governmental organizations (NGOs);
• private companies.

Post-study employment: a survey by the CFSO (2007).