Department of Geography
Advanced Degrees in Geography
Ph.D. in geography is designed to allow you to concentrate on a narrow and clearly defined sub-field, while at the same time honing your foundation in the breadth of geography. Comfort with the breadth of geography is necessary to communicate with your fellow geographers; comfort with the depth of your sub-field is necessary to make original contributions to the research scholarship of your area. The degree provides advanced-level preparation in one of three areas: urban/regional economic development and planning, earth science/natural resource management, or geographic information science.
Our Master's degree provides specialized instruction in a variety of geographic areas. These include both urban and regional planning, geographic information systems, cartography, remote sensing, demographic analysis, economic development, industrial location, natural resources, and environmental impact. This degree may be designed to concentrate in urban planning and economic development or it may be planned to be broader in scope to focus on several aspects of geographic analysis and to integrate various facets of geography. Those in the program may also choose the capstone for their degree: 1) a thesis, particularly useful for preparing for a doctoral program and academic careers, 2) an internship project, practical when connected with work as an employee in a private company, or 3) a non-thesis option that requires additional coursework and is considered a terminal degree.
We also offer post-baccalaureate certificates in Geographic Information Science (GIS) and Urban and Economic Development. These programs offer you the opportunity to specialize in a sub-area of geography to enhance your marketplace attractiveness in the world of professional geographic work. The courses that you will take will stretch your academic and professional capabilities, as you learn to critically evaluate work in your chosen area of expertise.We anticipate that many graduate students in Geography and allied fields will be able to complete these programs while working toward their graduate degrees.