In order to accomplish basic research in the field of Environmental Sciences, the Environmental Research Center (ERCKU) was established in 2007. Since its establishment, the ERCKU has actively conducted research in the fields of Education and Environmental Sciences. In 2010 a broad palette of new specialties was opened at the Khazar University, including the addition of the new History and Geography specialty. In order to meet the primary requirements of this specialty, the GEN was established. Despite the fact that GEN is a relative newcomer to the school, the department’s staff has a long-term research and educational background with years of combined professional experience.

The Department of Geography and Environment has recently introduced a new Geography curriculum. This curriculum is based on recent standards and reflects the requirements of employers.

Modern geography is an all-encompassing discipline that foremost seeks to understand the Earth and all of its human and natural complexities. That is why the newly developed curriculum reflects the changing scenery of these problems and approaches to solving them.

Recently, various government, non government and private organizations in Azerbaijan have begun seeking highly qualified geographers. Recent rapid economic development in Azerbaijan has caused a shortage of highly qualified specialists including geographers. Upon graduation, Geography alumni may be employed not only as school teachers, but also by various government and private institutions working as hydrologists, water managers, GIS specialists, meteorologists and remote sensing specialists. In order words, the curriculum of the department is sharply focused on employability.