Master's Programme in Geography, Master of Science

The Master’s Programme in Geography at the University of Helsinki leads to a Master of Science degree in geography. Students study physical geography, human geography, geoinformatics, conservation geography, sustainability and didactics of geography. The programme also connects study with the work of geography research groups.

The degree is 120 ECTS credits and is planned to take two academic years. Teaching is in English and contact teaching is used for a significant share of the studies. The degree includes advanced studies in geography, a master’s thesis, optional studies, career orientation and career planning, and a personal study plan. Methodology and specialisation courses are taught in small groups, and workshops and reading groups support independent study.

The programme is aimed at applicants from a variety of backgrounds and disciplines related to geography. Graduates of the University of Helsinki’s Bachelor’s Programme in Geography have direct access to the master’s programme, and so do graduates of the Bachelor’s Programme in Science, the Bachelor’s Programme in Environmental Sciences, the Bachelor’s Programme in Social Research and the Bachelor’s Programme in Society and Change.

Modules

• Introductory course
• Advanced studies
• Seminars
• master’s thesis
• Optional studies
• Career orientation and career planning
• Personal study plan (PSP)

Applicants to the Master’s Programme in Geography come from a variety of backgrounds and disciplines focused on topics related to geography. Graduates of the University of Helsinki’s Bachelor’s Programme in Geography have the right to continue directly to the master’s programme. Graduates of the Bachelor’s Programme in Science, the Bachelor’s Programme in Environmental Sciences, the Bachelor’s Programme in Social Research and the Bachelor’s Programme in Society and Change at the University of Helsinki also have direct access.

• Research at a university or another research institute
• Environmental impact assessment and environmental consultation
• Positions related to geographic information and remote sensing
• Regional and town planning
• Municipal and regional administration in public administration
• Public administration in government ministries
• Organisational positions
• Development cooperation projects
• Communications and publishing
• Teaching positions