GEOGRAPHY (PHYSICAL)
(See also Environmental Science, GIS and Spatial Analysis)
Physical geography deals with the materials and processes (physical, biological and chemical) that shape and influence landscapes and environments. The physical geography program at James Cook University, offered through the School of Tropical Environment Studies and Geography (TESAG) takes a broad approach. It considers how environments and landscapes function and how they may change over time (including how they may change as a result of the ongoing effects of human activities). The interdisciplinary nature of the School also provides perspectives from a physical, biological and social background, facilitating creative and dynamic solutions to existing and evolving problems.
TESAG’s programs in physical geography have particular strengths in geomorphology, biogeography and climatology, with special emphasis being given to the tropical perspective. Postgraduate geography students at JCU enjoy access to outstanding and diverse natural locations, including rainforest, woodland, savanna, arid zone, stream, wetland, coral reef, mangrove, seagrass, soft bottom benthic and open water pelagic environments.
Students interested in undertaking research in tropical north Queensland, may qualify for entry into a Doctor of Philosophy or a Master of Science program in physical geography. Research students take advantage of field stations on Orpheus Island, Horn Island or Moreton Island, in rainforest (“Kirrama” and “Paluma”) or savanna (“Fletcherview”) habitats and at the Australian Canopy Crane Research Facility at Cape Tribulation. The University’s strong involvement with the Cooperative Research Centres for the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area, Tropical Rainforest Ecology and Management, Sustainable Sugar Production and Sustainable Development of Tropical Savannas also provide significant strengths in the areas of applied and strategic research.
Further details of opportunities for research degrees in physical geography can be obtained through the School of Tropical Environment Studies and Geography.