Dynamics and Territorial Implementation of Spanish Geography Degrees. A Case Study

SECCIÓN GENERAL

Abstract

Within the framework of decreasing enrollment trends in Spanish Geography Degrees, we analyze the one of the University of Zaragoza with data from its 563 new students between the academic years 2010-11 and 2022-2023. After theoretically presenting the issues addressed, we employ simple graphic and cartographic techniques to track the demand at various scales and establish the socioeconomic profile of the Zaragoza districts where 60% of the students reside. The significant weight of the local environment as the origin of the degree's demand, and the spatial scope of its decline, become evident, as well as the intense masculinization of the student’s gender composition. It is also verified that the relative rates of students vary little but positively and significantly with the aging of their districts of origin but inversely, although significantly as well, with income. We conclude by advocating for more comprehensive analyses to support better strategies for promoting our studies.