Since ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳'s founding in 1895, Geography has been one of its cornerstone subjects. From our very first lectures on commercial geography, to today’s cutting edge research, we’ve been at the forefront of geographical innovation – not only chronicling the world – but helping to shape it.
Larry Kramer, President and Vice Chancellor of ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳, comments: "There is a reason geography and environment were part of the ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳ curriculum at the School’s launch and still are today: managing economic, physical, and social development depends on it. Congratulations to the Department of Geography and Environment for 130 years at the forefront of research, teaching, and thinking about these critical issues."
Hyun Bang Shin, Head of Department, comments: "I am proud to celebrate 130 years of outstanding achievement of the Department of Geography and Environment at ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳. Our success rests on the unwavering dedication of our faculty, professional services staff, students, and alumni, who continue to forge new paths in world-class teaching, groundbreaking research, and far-reaching global impact."
HISTORY
Our story is one of continuous evolution. During our earliest days, we offered evening courses on the influence of geographical conditions on commercial development and trade routes.
In 1922, we partnered with King’s College London to establish a joint school that, for over seven decades, fostered a rich exchange of ideas and resources, with ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳ covering human and economic geography.
Since 1995, we’ve thrived as an independent department, exploring the field through a social sciences lens, and tackling global challenges head-on.
And in the 21st century, we've cemented our leadership in critical areas. We are ranked 2nd in the world for geography according to the .
Our department’s legacy is built on the contributions of pioneering figures, the dedication of long-serving staff, and our outstanding students and alumni community.
LOOKING AHEAD
Today, we are home to hundreds of students from all over the world. Our department remains at the forefront of teaching and research, and our global reach is expanding.
Since 1895, Geography at ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳ has always pushed boundaries, shaped debate, and driven change.
Looking to the future, our story continues to unfold. As the world faces unprecedented challenges, our commitment to understanding and improving it is unwavering.
GET INVOLVED
Whether you're a current student, staff member, alumni or friend of the department, there are many ways to join us in celebrating our 130th anniversary:
- Share stories and memories (via our ).
- Attend our public events, either online or in person.
- Follow us on , , and to see content related to our anniversary.
LEARN MORE
In a piece for the , BA Geography student Mirha Butt explores the contributions of three remarkable women who have not only enriched the academic field but have been instrumental in advocating for social change: Dr Hilda Ormsby, Dame Judith Rees and Professor Sylvia Chant.
You can find a detailed history of our department in A Century of Geography by Michael Wise and Robert Estall, written in celebration of our 100th anniversary in 1995.
Other historical facts relating to the department can be found in the following blogs: