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The Master’s programme in Human Geography provides you with a strong background in contemporary theories and methodological debates in human geography. Political Geography is one of the four geographical sub-disciplines. In this track, you will gain essential knowledge and skills to analyse geopolitical dynamics and understand spatial politics in our globalised world.
  • Semester 1 & 2

    Political Geography is a track of the 1-year full time master programme Human Geography of 60 EC, spread over two semesters of 30 EC. The programme starts in September.  

    In the first semester we explore geopolitical perspectives and political geographical issues in the Geotrack. You’ll also choose an elective based on your interests. In the second semester you’ll focus on a specific issue and approach for your thesis project.  

  • Thesis

    Look forward to showcasing your understanding of various geographical theories and research skills through a Master's thesis. You can choose topics specifically linked to Political Geography. For the thesis, you could also do fieldwork abroad.  

    Some examples of themes and topics explored by previous students include elections, the rise of populism, border dynamics, migration policies, as well as original inquiries such as examining the impact of partner violence on victims' sense of home. 

  • Fieldwork

    Throughout the GEO focus course, you will explore a specific case study in-depth by studying literature and engaging in fieldwork. This includes conducting research in Barcelona and sharing your main discoveries through an essay and presentation back in Amsterdam. 

COURSES SEM 1 SEM 2 SEMESTER 1 SEMESTER 2 EC
  • Geographical Perspectives
    Period 1
    6

    Delve into human geography's nature and the role of geographers in society, through the exploration of various perspectives like Marxism, feminism, and post-structuralism. Get equipped with tools to analyze articles independently, contribute to debates, and shape your thesis and future professional path as geographer. Core questions ponder the characteristics of human geography, geographers' roles, constraints they face, and the societal use of geographical expertise, encouraging critical reflection on future societal roles after graduation.

  • Research Methodologies I: Qualitative and Quantitative research
    Period 4
    3

    Develop your skills in data collection and analysis using either quantitative or qualitative methods. The course offers three tracks which you can choose from: Qualitative Methods, Quantitative Methodologies Basic and Quantitative Methodologies Advanced.

  • Research Methodologies II: Spatial Analyses
    Period 4
    3

    Learn how to use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for research and professional work. You will develop practical skills to generate, analyse, and visualise geographical information, while also developing a critical approach to spatial analysis and interpreting maps created by others.

  • Restricted-choice electives
    Period 2
    6

    During the restricted choice elective you get the opportunity to choose one of the programme's thematic electives (see online course catalogue).

  • Advanced Political Geography: Geopolitics, Globalisation & Governance
    Period 1
    Period 2
    12

    Explore key concepts like territory and scale, this course investigates geopolitical agency, territorial claims, and multiscalar governance, emphasizing the shifting nature of contemporary geopolitics, territories, and global challenges.

  • Geo Focus: Fieldwork Excursion
    Period 3
    6

    During this course you will delve deeper into one particular case study through literature and fieldwork. This partially consists of conducting fieldwork in Barcelona, and presenting key findings in an essay and presentation back in Amsterdam.

  • GEO Track: Master Thesis Project
    Period 4
    Period 5
    Period 6
    24

    The master's thesis is the final part of the MSc Human Geography, integrating knowledge and skills from the program. Working in thematic groups, students delve into projects aligned with core courses, engaging in group and individual meetings with supervisors.

Compulsory course
Elective
Find more information in the online course catalogue
Experience the programme