The Department of Geography, University B.T. and Evening College offers a well-structured, dynamic, and interdisciplinary curriculum which is designed to meet the framework of New Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The whole academic programme is thoughtfully orientedinto three courses i.e., Major, Minor, and Discipline Specific Courses (DSC) that will facilitate students to build strong conceptual foundations with real-world geographical phenomena.
1. Major in Geography: Major in Geography provides a thorough and inclusive understanding of the physical, human and applied geography. The rich and diverse curriculum helps students learn the dynamic processes of the Earth system through Geomorphology, Geotectonics, Climatology, Oceanography, Biogeography, Soil Geography, Environmental Geography, etc.Students also get the understanding of human dimension through Settlement, Urban, Rural, Political, Social, and Indian Geography. Additionally, the whole course seeks to enhance their methodical and practical skills in Cartographic Methods, Statistical Analysis, Remote Sensing and GIS, Field and Laboratory based studies etc.
2. Minor and Discipline Specific Courses (DSC)in Geography: This programme is designed for the students from the other Major disciplines who want to build their fundamental knowledge in Geography. These two courses covers the most essential topics in Geography including Geomorphology, Climatology, Settlement Geography, Economic Geography emphasizing on environmental awareness and practical exposure. These courses enhance the subject-specific competencies throughcartographic techniques, spatial data interpretation, field surveys, report writing, and the introductory geospatial techniques.
This department follows a balanced approach combining classroom learning with practical exposure:
ICT-based Teaching: Use of digital maps, satellite imagery, and projectors to enhance conceptual clarity.
Field Surveys: Field surveys are conducted in nearby rural and urban areas, as well as across the different states of India to foster the socio-economic and environmental understanding of the students.
Laboratory Work: Regular Practical sessions in cartography, RS-GIS, and statistical techniques are organized.
Interactive Learning: Power Point Presentations (PPT) by the students, Group Discussions (GDs), and project-based assignments.
Continuous Evaluation: Internal assessments, practical examinations, MCQ based assessment, viva-voce, and written tests are conducted on regular basis throughout the course duration.
Since, geography is the discipline that studies the earth system and the complex interplay between nature and the society. Thus, extra-curricular learning is an essential part of the discipline which enriches the knowledge of students throughobservation real-world and field experience.
Field Excursion: Educational tours and field excursions are organized within the state and to places such as Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Sikkim, and Meghalaya to explore diverse landscapes and socio-environmental relationships.
Soil Sample Collection: Students collect soil samples from agricultural fields, river beds, and forest areas to understand soil types, structure, and environmental characteristics through direct observation.
Identification of Rocks and Minerals: Field visits are conducted to river bed areas in the mountainous piedmont regions of North Bengal, including the Buxa–Jayanti, Murti, and Raimatang rivers, where students identify and study rocks and minerals in their natural setting.
Identification of Plant Species: Plant species are identified and documented, especially in the ecologically rich Terai and Dooarsregions, whichhelps students know the importance of biodiversity.
Settlement Study: Field-survey based studies in rural and urban settlements help students understand the patterns of human settlement, land utilization, infrastructures, and livelihood practices.
RS and GIS: GPS-based surveys and mapping exercises provide practical exposure to modern geo-spatial techniques and data collection methods. Ground truth verification through detailed field observation is conducted to correctly interpret satellite images and ensure accurate analysis of landforms, land use, and environmental features.
Career Guidance: Guidance and mentorship are offered for higher education, job opportunities and preparation for various competitive examinations.
Film Screening: Educational film screenings and documentary sessions are arranged to enrich classroom learning and to broaden the academic perspectives of the students.
River Basin Analysis: Students undertake river basin analysis and environmental assessment studies to understand watershed management and ecological challenges therein.
Environmental Campaigning: Climate change awareness programmes and environmental campaigns encourage active participation in sustainability initiatives.
Publication of Departmental Web-magazine Geo Vibes: Students are encouraged to foster their creative skill through writing, drawing, art, and photography, with selected works published in Geo Vibes, the departmental wall magazine.
Participation in Cultural Programmes: Students actively participate in annual sports, cultural events, and other co-curricular activities for overall personality development.
Sustainable Green Practices: Campus gardening initiatives promote environmental responsibility, hands-on learning, and sustainable green practices within the college premises.
