CeHuNews 245/03
College of Arts
THE DEPARTMENT OF
GEOGRAPHY
The major goals of the department are to graduate intellectually and technically
qualified geographers, who can competently answer the needs of Omani society;
train future teachers of geography; encourage research in geography; and
increase scientific knowledge about geography. In order to accomplish these
goals, the department offers several sub-majors such as the Science of
Geography, Regional and Urban Planning, and Environmental
Studies.
For purposes of
instruction, the department uses scientific systems such as spatial and
environmental analysis and also highly technical methods in fieldwork. To aid in
student development, the department has been provided with two laboratories, one
for geography and the other for computer maps. In these laboratories,
the students practice map designing and execution, both by hand and
computer. Furthermore, the department has a weather forecasting station
with sophisticated measuring equipment, which helps students practice reading
and registering weather information. For practical training,
students, technicians, and academic staff are sent to ministries and other
government organizations and, at times, abroad for training in innovative
programs which offer state of the art equipment.
Since the department was founded, eighty-one geography students have graduated,
most of whom are working for organizations such as Petroleum Development of Oman
(P.D.O.) and ministries, especially the Ministries of Transportation, Interior
Affairs, Housing, and Defense. A number of graduates are also working in
government agencies in the Dhofar region.
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