Department of Studies in Geography
The Department of Studies in Geography at the University of Mysore traces its origins to the academic year 1959–60, when it was established at Maharaja’s College by the distinguished scholar and geographer, Prof. Syed Nazir Ahmed. He was soon joined by Prof. Ghori, a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, and Prof. M. Salar Masood, further strengthening the department’s academic foundation.
Under the patronage of His Highness Sri Jayachamarajendra Wodeyar, then Chancellor of the University of Mysore, the Master’s degree program in Geography was formally introduced. This marked a significant milestone, making it one of the oldest Geography departments in Karnataka.
Initially housed at Maharaja’s College, the department relocated to the Manasagangotri campus in 1962–63. Classes were first conducted at the historic Jayalakshmi Vilas Mansion Palace before moving to a dedicated facility in 1965.
In 1965, Prof. R.P. Mishra assumed leadership of the department and ushered in a period of remarkable growth and international recognition. His pioneering research in Urban and Regional Planning attracted global attention and led to the establishment of the “Centre for Regional Planning and Developmental Studies” within the department. This initiative evolved into the “Institute of Development Studies (IDS)” in 1971, further expanding the department’s academic and research horizons.
Since 1971, the department has been led by a succession of esteemed Chairpersons, including:
Currently, the department is headed by Prof. B. Chandrashekara.
In 2014, thanks to the efforts of Prof. Ramu, the Centre for Geoinformatics Technology was established within the department. This center offers a range of specialized technical courses, further enhancing the department’s academic portfolio and relevance in contemporary geographic studies.
Milestones of the Department of Studies in Geography
| Sl.No | Milestones | Year |
| 1 | Establishment of the Undergraduate Geography Program at Maharaja’s College | 1959–60 |
| 2 | Introduction of the Postgraduate Program and relocation to Manasagangothri Campus | 1962–63 |
| 3 | Launch of the Centre for Regional Planning and Developmental Studies by Prof. R.P. Mishra | 1969–70 |
| 4 | Establishment of the Institute of Development Studies (IDS) as a separate entity under Prof. R.P. Mishra (Former Vice Chancellor, Allahabad University) | 1970–71 |
| 5 | Transition of the M.A. Geography program to the Faculty of Science; degree renamed to M.Sc. Geography | 2006–07 |
| 6 | Introduction of the M.Phil. program in Geography | 2007–08 |
| 7 | Relocation of the M.Sc. GIS program from Maharaja’s College to the Department of Geography; establishment of the “Centre for Geoinformatics Technology” | 2014–15 |
| 8 | Launch of the Postgraduate Diploma in GIS under the Centre for Geoinformatics Technology | 2016–17 |
Department of Studies in Geography, University of Mysore
· Academic Engagements: The department organizes National and International seminars, workshops, conferences, and webinars annually to foster skill development and enhance career opportunities.
· Curriculum Innovation: The academic curriculum is regularly updated to align with global trends and emerging industry standards.
· Research Orientation: M.Sc. Geography students undertake a mandatory dissertation project in their fourth semester, promoting independent research and analytical skills.
· Industry and Institutional Collaboration: The department actively collaborates with corporate firms, government agencies, and NGOs to facilitate research initiatives and improve student career prospects.
· Student Counseling: Personalized counseling is provided to address students’ concerns related to social anxiety, financial challenges, and academic stress.
· Environmental Stewardship: Tree planting ceremonies are held on significant occasions, involving students and visiting dignitaries to promote ecological awareness.
· Experiential Learning: Regular field trips, educational tours, and induction programs are conducted to enrich students’ practical understanding of geography.
· Faculty Outreach: Faculty members contribute to academic outreach by delivering special lectures at the Administrative Training Institute (ATI), NSS annual camps, and various training programs across the region.
· Competitive Exam Preparation: Free orientation classes for NET, SLET, and KSET are offered to support students preparing for academic and research careers.
· Student Motivation Program: The department hosts regular motivational sessions under the banner of “SadhanaSpoorthy” to inspire academic excellence and personal growth.
· Special Invited Talks by Experts: Special invited talks are organized by the department inviting eminent scholars of the national and international repute, experts from the scientific organizations and industry and alumni.
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The department is located at Manasagangotri postgraduate campus of the university. Click on the image below for a detailed map of the campus and the city.
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