Use science, technology, and spatial data to better understand our changing world. UNC Greensboro’s Bachelor of Science in Geography prepares students to investigate environmental and societal challenges through scientific analysis, geographic technologies, and hands-on research. You’ll study how physical landscapes, climate systems, natural resources, and human activities interact while building technical skills that employers value.
The Geography B.S. is designed for students seeking a more science-focused and analytical course of study. Through concentrations in Earth Science, Geographic Information Science (GIS), or Urban Planning, you’ll develop expertise in data analysis, mapping technologies, environmental problem solving, and spatial decision-making.
Whether you’re interested in environmental consulting, geospatial technologies, sustainability, planning, or graduate study, the Geography B.S. provides a strong foundation for careers that rely on scientific reasoning and geographic expertise.
B.A. OR B.S. — WHICH Geography DEGREE IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
Both the Geography B.S. and Geography B.A. offer flexible pathways that you can tailor to your interests and career goals.
- The B.S. emphasizes depth over breadth. It is the best fit for students who want a more science‑focused experience, emphasizing technical skills, hands‑on learning, and deeper study through concentrations in Earth Science, Geographic Information Science, or Urban Planning.
- The B.A. emphasizes breadth over depth. It provides a broader, interdisciplinary approach with the same concentration options. It also provides a general geography track for students who want maximum flexibility, plan to pair geography with another major, or are exploring a wide range of career directions.
Bachelor of Science in Geography PROGRAM DISTINCTIONS
- Work with industry-standard geographic technologies. Gain hands-on experience with professional tools including GPS technology, ArcGIS, ERDAS Imagine, MapInfo, remote sensing applications, and advanced mapping software.
- Learn through hands-on scientific investigation. Develop skills in environmental science, data analysis, spatial problem-solving, and applied research.
- Access specialized research laboratories. Conduct analysis and research in facilities such as the Carolina Tree-Ring Science Laboratory and Regolith Analysis Laboratory.
- Study at a nationally recognized sustainability leader. UNC Greensboro is ranked as one of the nation’s most environmentally responsible colleges (Princeton Review’s Green College List, 2026)
Work with Experts to Develop Everyday Solutions
“As a geographer, I work to highlight how space and place matter and give us experiences and opportunities that enhance our overall quality of life, including physical and mental health.”
— Dr. Selima Sultana, professor and associate head of geography, environment, and sustainability
THE B.S. in Geography STUDENT EXPERIENCE
- Apply classroom concepts through hands-on learning. Field experiences, laboratory work, and technology-based coursework help students strengthen their skills in geographic analysis, environmental investigation, and problem solving.
- Learn beyond the classroom. Geography students have opportunities to participate in field courses and study abroad experiences that allow them to examine geographic processes and environmental systems in diverse settings.
- Build professional connections. Through the Geography Club, students engage with professionals from GIS firms, planning agencies, environmental organizations, and other geography-related fields.
- Challenge yourself academically and professionally. Students can compete on UNCG’s award-winning Geography Bowl Team and qualify for membership in Gamma Theta Upsilon, the international honor society for geography.
B.S. In Geography COURSES
Students in the Geography, B.S. program choose a specific concentration: Earth Science, Geographic Information Science (GIS), or Urban Planning to focus their studies around. Couse options include:
AFTER GRADUATIng with your Bachelor of Science Geography Degree
A Geography, B.S. from UNC Greensboro equips graduates with scientific, technical, and analytical skills that employers value across a variety of industries. Alumni work in environmental consulting, geospatial technology, urban and regional planning, government agencies, research organizations, and other fields that rely on geographic data and spatial analysis to inform decision-making.
The program also provides strong preparation for graduate study in geography, environmental science, sustainability, planning, and related disciplines. Many students continue at UNC Greensboro through the online Master’s in Sustainability and Environment or the Post‑Baccalaureate Certificate in Sustainability to further develop expertise in environmental and community-focused problem solving.
Potential Career Paths
- Cartographer
- Emergency Management Planner
- Environmental Planner
- Remote Sensing Analyst
- GIS Analyst
- Transportation Manager
- Urban/City Planner
- Teacher
Get more information About the B.S. in Geography
Program Details
Degree Type: Bachelor's
College/School: College of Arts and Sciences
Program Type: Majors & Concentrations
Class Type: In Person
Catalog Name: Geography B.S.
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Contact Us
Dr. G. Jay Lennartson
Director of Undergraduate Studies
Department of Geography, Environment, and Sustainability Studies
gjlennar@uncg.edu