Disciplines

Research in the faculty of Geography revolves around the causes and consequences of human-induced global changes. Geography is distinct from other disciplines in that it bridges the social-natural sciences divide. It is this specific link that makes for an innovative and effective design for global change research. This applies retrospectively to palaeoenvironmental research as well as prospectively to guiding sustainable global and regional development.

Physical geography is the study of the natural environment, a set of complex spatial interactions between and within the geosphere (lithosphere, pedosphere, atmosphere and hydrosphere) and biosphere (flora and fauna) through time. Research focuses on the interdependence of all processes in the geosphere and biosphere, and their impact on the environment. The permanent effect on and alteration of the natural environment due to human activity is a central part of this research.

Human geography is the study of complex spatial interactions between humans and the natural or man-made environment. Its purpose is to theoretically describe and explain these interactions on various scales by analysing unique or regular structures, features and processes resulting from human decision-making within its economic, political and social context.