Trajetórias em meio século: um olhar sobre o Programa de Pós-Graduação em Geografia da UFRJ e as produções de teses e dissertações (1975-2024)

Abstract

This research investigated the trajectory and the scientific production of theses and dissertations from the Graduate Program in Geography at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (PPGG-UFRJ), whose history is intrinsically linked to the evolution of the Department of Geography and the institutional context of UFRJ itself. The study is justified by the historical relevance of the Program, the second graduate program in Geography created in Brazil, and it remains a national reference. The research sought to understand its institutional construction, identity, structure, and scientific production over five decades, tracing its institutional roots back to the University of the District Federal (UDF) and situating its history within the broader development of Brazilian graduate education. Adopting a historical perspective and employing a quantitative analysis of theses and dissertations defended throughout its trajectory (1975-2024), with a detailed focus on mapping the production from 2000 to 2024 (continuing previous surveys), the dissertation aimed to identify patterns, uncover relationships, and construct interpretations about the trajectory of the PPGG-UFRJ. The study highlighted the transformations, trends, and contributions of the Program to Brazilian and international Geography, analyzing its consolidation as a center of excellence in training geographers. The results revealed that master’s defenses grew between 1975 and 2004, remaining stable thereafter, despite a drop in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Doctoral defenses also increased, though in smaller volume, and have recently stabilized. In the master’s level, demand fluctuated between the concentration areas of Environmental Planning and Management (PGA) and Organization and Management of the Territory (OGT), with PGA surpassing OGT in recent years. At the doctoral level, the distribution remained stable but showed a reduction in both areas. By investigating the scientific production of the Program, the research contributes to understanding its evolution and its impact on the development of geographical science in Brazil.