Geography (MSc)

Our Master of Science (MSc) in Geography is a two-year program that is perfect if you want to develop expertise in the science sub-disciplines of Geography with an emphasis on environmental science and geomatics.

We also offer Master of Environmental Studies in Geography and Master of Arts in Geography programs.

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Do field research in a variety of physical environments.

Benefit from the breadth and depth of faculty expertise and peers in a rich intellectual environment.

Our program is enhanced by a number of research centres and groups.

Program Details

Program Structure

This full-time program can be completed in two years. You’ll complete three one-term courses, and write and defend a master’s thesis.

You can explore a range of research interests, including water resources; northern environments; cold regions hydrology; biogeochemical cycling of nutrients; climate change impacts on vegetation, permafrost, snow, lakes and rivers. You’ll gain expertise and skills through a combination of formal coursework, research and teaching assistant positions, field and laboratory experimentation, and independent research leading to the completion of your thesis.

Related Research Centres

Our program is enhanced by a number of research centres and groups, including:

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"Research has given me an outlet for creativity and accomplishment – and being a part of a research group has allowed me to explore my own interests while also collaborating with peers working toward a common goal."

Alicia Pouw, MSc in Geography student

Admissions

Take the first step in your graduate education and apply to one of our graduate programs. Follow our three-step admission process — we’ll walk you through how to apply and prepare for your first day as a graduate student.

  • Start: Fall (September)
  • Format: Full-time
  • Application opens: Oct. 1
  • Application deadline: March 30 (international applicants) or July 30 (domestic applicants). Applications will be considered until the program is full.

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"Get ready for an experience you'll always remember. In this program you'll improve your critical thinking, collaborate with professionals on modern projects, progress the scope of research taking place within the Canadian Arctic, and in the sphere of climate change." 

Anton Jitnikovitch, 2019 graduate

Waterloo Campus

This program is available on Laurier's Waterloo campus.

Laurier Waterloo is where tradition, innovation and incredible school spirit collide.

The Waterloo campus spans one large city block, ensuring you’re close to your classes, favourite study spots, student services and favourite coffee shops. Laurier is a leading force in research among Canadian universities, and many of our research centres and institutes are housed in Waterloo.

We offer the guidance and support you need to thrive academically and personally throughout your degree.

Discover Laurier Waterloo for yourself: 

Tuition and Funding

Regardless of the type of graduate degree program you intend to pursue, financial planning is important. At Laurier, we want to provide you with as much information as possible about a variety of scholarship and funding opportunities and equip you with the skills to manage your finances effectively in the years to come.

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Careers

MSc in Geography graduates have secured employment as research technicians in academia, resource specialists with government agencies (Yukon Government) and environmental consulting firms and companies (Geomorphic Solutions, EDI Environmental Dynamics, Hoskins).

Your Path to Post-Degree Success

ASPIRE is Laurier's professional skills development training program for graduate students. The program helps you craft an individualized, extracurricular learning plan tailored to your professional journey and entry to the workplace.

Faculty

Learn about the interests of our faculty members. If you are looking for more information about this program, have questions, or want to set up a meeting, contact a member of our team./p>

Michael Bitton
Assistant Professor

Joseph Culp
Environment and Climate Change
Canada Research Scientist in Residence

Jason Goetz
Assistant Professor

Homa Kheyrollah Pour
Assistant Professor
Canada Research Chair in Remote Sensing of Environmental Change

Philip Marsh
Professor
Canada Research Chair in Cold Regions Water Science 

William L. Quinton
Professor
Laurier Research Professor

Steven Roberts
Associate Professor
Graduate Officer, Geography

Jason Venkiteswaran
Associate Professor

Brent Wolfe
Professor
Associate Vice-President and Dean, Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies

Cross-Appointed Faculty Members

Jennifer Baltzer
Associate Professor
Canada Research Chair in Forests and Global Change

Alex Latta
Associate Professor