Mountain Studies

Through this programme, students are trained to make analytical comparison of the geography of mountainous regions from around the world with emphasis on the complexities of the geo-ecosystem and the interplay between humans and the landscape in mountainous terrain. Environmental issues, sustainable resource development, and the historical roots of cultural distinctness in mountainous areas are scrutinised with case studies.

Academic Objective

The Mountain Studies Programme is designed to expose students to current issues of mountain systems including but not limited to the role of humans in the environment. This is done by analyzing the epistemography of mountains as a research theme, the biogeography of mountain biodiversity, the geoecology of mountain societies, and the case studies of water usage in orobiomes. It is equally arrived out by examining the advances in ethnoecology research and mountain cultures, the urbanization of mountain areas and associated environmental impacts, the influence of globalization in socioeconomic scenarios of mountains, and the pathways for sustainable mountain development.

Pedagogy

The unique instruction methods offer tutorial-style of teaching and discussion environment within smaller groups based on a suite of contemporary research themes. The teaching aim is to foster discussion and debate between instructors and trainees to identify and explore theory, methods and practice in an academic space that encourages a critical dialogue.

An independent and original dissertation is an integral component of the programme In order to equip trainees with the necessary skills to undertake high quality research, course modules in research design and research methods teach skills and competences in a suite of common and emerging research practices and methods employed in Mountain Studies, policy and management research.

Scientific objectives

Link theory, hypothesis, methods, data and field work so as to identify and develop advanced research questions and design.

Entrepreneurial objectives

Graduates from this programme easily get employed by local government, reputable national and international for-profit and non-profit environmental organizations amongst others. The graduate also become special consultant to national and international bodies on mountain and environmental issues