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Department

Geography

Introduction to Geography

History of Geography Department

Department of Geography was created in 2011. The programme started with 14 students for the 2012/2013 academic session. This number subsequently increased to 20 in the 2013/2014 academic session when Direct Entry (DE) candidates were admitted. The number has increased substantially through the sessions. The pioneer Head of Department was Professor D.D. Dabi. Other pioneer members of staff were Mr. Daloeng H.M., Mr. Wuyep S.Z, Mr. Arin H.B, Mr. Vincent D.C, Mr. Luka D.G, Mrs. Lenton L.L and Gwanshak J.Y. They all started with the department in 2012/2013 session. Geography department has a number of technical staff who joined the services of the University in different time. Mr. Bulus Vincent Timloh the soil Laboratory Assistant joined the department in 2016, Mr. Gabriel Stephen Dung the weather technologist, Mrs. Pankut Amina Tyrannus the confidential secretary, Mr. Mathias Gwamsun Elisha the clerical officer and Mrs. Peace Adamu the department cleaner. The department was formally with the Faculty of Natural and applied Sciences, but was moved to the Faculty of Social Sciences in 2019/2020 session, presently the department is in the Faculty of Environmental Science. The department secured its full accreditation approval of programmes in 2021 under Dr. Solomon Zitta Wuyep Head of Department of Geography at that time. The department has grown in strength in both academic activities and linkages since its establishment. Geography Department has established a linkage and signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Federal College of Land Resources, Vom to promote research and to support the teaching of its students during industrial attachment. Presently, the department has 13 academic staff as shown in Table 1. As at present, Dr. Joshua Yohanna Gwanshak is the head of department of Geography.
ADMISSION OPTIONS

100 Level Admissions | Direct Entry Admissions

Program Summary

Fees

Head of Department

Dr. Joshua Yohanna Gwanshak

Head of Geography Department

Dr. Joshua Yohanna Gwanshak, a native of Ron, Bokkos Local Government Area, Plateau State was born 12th October, 1972 at Wumat-Tarangol of Bokkos LGA. He is married to Mrs. Rifkatu Joshua Gwanshak and had five (5) Children. Dr. Joshua Yohanna Gwanshak attended Government Teachers College, Langtang and graduated in 1988, College of Education, Akwanga, 1991-1994, University of Jos and obtained BSc. (Ed) Geography, 2004, University of Jos M.Sc. Population and Manpower Planning in 2010. Dr. Gwanshak, attended University of Malaya-Malaysia for his Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) 2018-2022 in the Faculty of Art and Social Sciences, Department of Geography. His field of specialty is (Human Geography) Population and Manpower Planning and Migration Studies. Presently, Dr. Joshau Yohanna Gwanshak is the Head, Department of Geography, Plateau State University, Bokkos in the Faculty of environmental Sciences. He has published many Scholarly articles in reputable journals, presented papers at Conferences and a member of Association of Nigerian Geographers (ANG) AND Population Association of Nigeria (PAN) etc. Dr. Joshua Yohanna Gwanshak is a Senior Lecturer, Department of Geography.

Departmental Staff:

The Faculty of Arts has well trained and dedicated lecturers with various specializations and track records of research activities required for the effective training of students. The faculty has maintained its vision of pursuing research and training in the humanities through integrated team work with its successive deans:

Daloeng Hyacinth Madaki

Departmental Staff

Dr. Vincent Dung Choji

Deparmental Staff

Dr. Hassan Buhari Arin

Departmental Staff

1st SemesterUnits
Introduction to physical geography2
Introduction to human geography2
Introduction to environmental sciences2
Introduction to Hospitality & Tourism Management2
Eco-tourism Management2
Communication in English3
Philosophy and logic2
Elementary Mathematics I3
Contemporary Health Issues (Elective)2
2nd SemesterUnits
Introduction to practical Geography3
Introduction to survey and cartography3
Introduction to Computer application in geography3
Local field studies (Bokkos and environs)3
Leisure and Tourism in a diverse society2
Housekeeping management2
Recreation & Tourism attraction management2

Curriculum

Departmental Courses (Compulsory and Required)

Our curriculum is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in a variety of careers in the tech industry. The programme covers a wide range of topics, including programming, data structures, algorithms, operating systems, and artificial intelligence.

The faculty is available to students through forums, email, and phone calls. Students also have access to a variety of resources, including a state-of-the-art e-library, virtual computer labs, a career center, and a variety of student organisations.

Admission Requirements

Entry Requirements to the department (Conditions of Entry into B. Sc Geography)

Student admission is open to all, and candidates for admission into the Bachelor of Science degree in Geography must:

 
 
  1. Pass the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) in the acceptable subjects
  2. Have five credits which must include Geography, English Language, Mathematics, and any other two social or natural science subjects in the Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination or the General Certificate of Education Examination from WAEC or NECO or NABTEB, obtained at not more than two (2) sittings.
  3. Pass in the Remedial Studies of the Plateau State University in the relevant subjects including geography, Mathematics and English Language. Such candidates also enter the programme at the 100 level.
  4. Candidates seeking Direct Entry admission should in addition to the ‘O Level requirements have at least two A’ Level subjects, one of which must be geography.

Please note that submission of Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) results is  not mandatory at this stage. However, upon admission to the university, the provided results will be thoroughly verified for authenticity and compliance with the stated criteria, including JAMB Registration.

CAREER PATH FOR GEOGRAPHY STUDENTS

Geography students can pursue diverse careers, including environmental consulting, urban planning, cartography, GIS/remote sensing, teaching, and research amongst others, leveraging their spatial analysis and problem-solving skills. Here’s a more detailed look at potential career paths for geography students:

1. Environmental and Sustainability Careers

 

  1. Environmental Consultant – Assess environmental impact and develop sustainability strategies. Advise businesses and organizations on environmental issues and regulations

  2. Conservation Officer – Work in wildlife conservation, forest management, and biodiversity protection.

  3. Environmental Scientist: Research and study environmental problems, develop solutions, and monitor environmental quality.

  4. Nature Conservation Officer: Manage and protect natural areas, wildlife, and ecosystems.

  5. Water Quality Scientist: Analyze water quality, monitor pollution, and develop water management strategies.

  6. Geoscientist: Study Earth’s physical structure, processes, and resources. 
  7. Hydrologist: Study the movement, distribution, and quality of water on Earth. 
  8. Soil Conservationist: Develop and implement soil conservation practices. 
  9. Pollution Analyst: Investigate and assess pollution sources and impacts. 

 

2. Geospatial and GIS Careers

 

  1. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Analyst – Use GIS tools to analyze spatial data for planning and decision-making.

  2. Remote Sensing Specialist – Use satellite imagery to study land use, vegetation, and climate changes.

  3. Cartographer – Create maps for government agencies, businesses, and digital applications.

  4. Surveyor: Measure and map land and property boundaries.

  5. Geomatics/Land Surveyor: Use geospatial technologies to collect and analyze spatial data.
3. Urban and Regional Planning Careers

  1. Urban Planner – Design and develop sustainable cities, transportation systems, and infrastructure.

  2. Transportation Planner – Improve mobility and transport networks in urban and rural areas- Plan and manage transportation systems.

  3. Housing and Real Estate Analyst – Study land use and property development trends.

  4. Urban Planner: Plan and develop sustainable and efficient urban areas.

  5. Town Planner: Plan and develop towns and rural areas. . 
  6. Landscape Architect: Design and plan outdoor spaces and landscapes. 
  7. Geopolitical Analyst: Analyze the spatial aspects of political and economic relationships. 
4. Disaster and Risk Management Careers

  1. Disaster Management Specialist – Plan for and respond to natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes.

  2. Hydrologist – Study water bodies, flood patterns, and drought impacts.

  3. Emergency Response Coordinator – Develop strategies for disaster preparedness and relief efforts.

5. Education and Research Careers

  1. Lecturer/Teacher – Teach geography at secondary schools, colleges, or universities.

  2. Research Scientist – Conduct research on physical or human geography topics.

  3. Author/Content Creator – Write geography textbooks, research papers, or create educational content.

6. Government and Policy Careers

  1. Environmental Policy Analyst – Develop policies for sustainable development and environmental conservation.

  2. Demographer – Analyze population trends and their impact on society.

  3. Census and Statistics Officer – Work with government agencies to collect and analyze population and economic data.

7. Business and Industry Careers

  1. Market Research Analyst – Use geographic data to study consumer behavior and market trends.

  2. Tourism and Travel Consultant – Develop eco-tourism projects and promote geographical attractions.

  3. Logistics and Supply Chain Manager – Optimize transportation networks for businesses.

8. Military and Intelligence Careers

  1. Geospatial Intelligence Analyst – Use geographic data for national security and military operations.

  2. Defense and Security Consultant – Assess geographical risks and threats in conflict zones.

9. Air Traffic Management and Navigation

  1. Air Traffic Controller – Manage aircraft movement in controlled airspace, ensuring safe takeoffs, landings, and flight routes.

  2. Aeronautical Cartographer – Develop and update aviation maps and charts used by pilots for navigation.

  3. Flight Dispatcher – Plan flight paths considering weather conditions, fuel efficiency, and air traffic regulations.
10. Maritime Navigation and Logistics

  1. Hydrographer – Conduct underwater mapping and charting to support safe navigation and maritime infrastructure development.

  2. Marine Cartographer – Develop and update nautical charts used for navigation, port planning, and coastal management.

  3. Shipping and Port Operations Manager – Manage logistics, cargo handling, and operations in seaports and inland waterways.
  4. Maritime GIS Analyst – Use GIS to analyze shipping routes, ocean currents, and port locations for efficient water transport planning.
11. Hydrology and Waterway Management

  1. Hydrologist – Study water bodies, tides, and river systems to ensure safe and sustainable water transportation.

  2. River Transport Planner – Plan and manage inland waterways for commercial and passenger transport.

  3. Coastal and Marine Environmental Consultant – Assess the environmental impact of shipping, dredging, and port activities.
12. Research and Policy Development

  1. Maritime Geographer – Study the spatial aspects of global shipping, trade routes, and inland water transport systems.

  2. Marine Resource Manager – Work with governments and international organizations to regulate shipping, fisheries, and coastal resources.

  3. Water Transportation Policy Analyst – Develop policies for sustainable water transport, safety regulations, and environmental conservation.
13. Disaster and Risk Management

  1. Flood and Coastal Risk Manager – Assess and mitigate risks related to flooding, sea-level rise, and coastal erosion affecting water transport.

  2. Maritime Safety and Security Officer – Work with coast guards and regulatory bodies to enhance safety and security in water transportation.

14. Port and Harbour Development

  1. Port and Harbour Planner – Design and develop efficient port infrastructure, considering factors like tides, sedimentation, and land use.

  2. Dredging Specialist – Manage sediment removal to maintain navigable waterways and prevent siltation in harbors.

 

Geography provides a broad and flexible foundation, allowing students to work in different sectors depending on their interests and specializations. Let me know if you need more details on any career path!  Geography students can pursue diverse careers, including environmental consulting, urban planning, cartography, GIS/remote sensing, teaching, and research amongst  others, leveraging their spatial analysis and problem-solving skills. Here’s a more detailed look at potential career paths for geography students:

Other Career Paths:

  1. Teacher: Teach geography at various educational levels.

  2. Librarian: Manage and organize library collections, including maps and geographic data.

  3. Research Scientist: Conduct research in various areas of geography. 

  4. Market Researcher: Analyze geographic patterns and trends for business purposes. 

  5. Real Estate Appraiser: Assess the value of real estate based on location and other factors. 

  6. Travel Agent: Plan and organize travel itineraries based on geographic knowledge. 

  7. Park Ranger: Manage and protect parks and natural areas. 

  8. Emergency Management Specialist: Prepare for and respond to natural disasters and other emergencies. 

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