For nearly a century, the RCGS has contributed to growing geographical understanding of Canada – its people, places, culture, environment and economic challenges – by funding research to broaden Canadians’ knowledge and appreciation of Canada. As one of the oldest organizations in Canada funding geographical research, our research grants and scholarships have enabled students to pursue their passion for geography, sometimes leading to ground-breaking results. This much-needed support has also helped launch the careers of Canada’s brightest minds in geography.
Scroll down to apply and note, the application deadline is February 14th, annually.
Applications are reviewed, debated and adjudicated by a curated committee. They retain the right to decline awarding candidates in any category, in any given year. The Committee is led by Pat Maher (Chair) and Greg Halseth (Vice Chair) and is supported by James Boxall, Janis Dale, Christine Duverger-Harrison, and Leslie Gratton.
RCGS Graduate Research Scholarships
The RCGS Graduate Research Scholarships (a maximum of $13,000 to be allotted, $5,000 for any one individual) are awarded annually by The Royal Canadian Geographical Society. It is open to both Masters and Doctoral students registered in a Canadian university. The geographical focus of the research is open to anywhere in Canada.
RCGS Independent Research Grants
The Royal Canadian Geographical Society supports independent research projects (maximum of $5000, if applications merit) on geographical topics that further the mandate of the Society “to make Canada better known to Canadians and to the world.” Proposals must identify the topic to be addressed, the methods to be used and the nature of the finished product. Applicants cannot be affiliated with (including enrolment in or faculty of) a university or academic institution.
The James Maxwell Human Geography Scholarship
The James Maxwell Scholarship in Human Geography is awarded ($6,000 for an individual, if applications merit) to students enrolled in a Master’s program at a Canadian university and engaged in thesis research on Canadian human geography. This scholarship was named in honour of James Maxwell, a former Executive Director of The Royal Canadian Geographical Society.
The James Bourque Northern Doctoral Scholarship
The James Bourque Northern Doctoral Scholarship (a maximum of $6000, if applications merit) is awarded annually by The Royal Canadian Geographical Society. It is for students enrolled in a Doctoral program at a Canadian university. The scholarship will be awarded for research leading to a thesis on a subject relating to northern geography.
