PhD in Geography

The PhD in Geography enables students to advance both the breadth and depth of their knowledge of geographic concepts and methodologies. UNCG is one of only three schools in the state that offer a geography doctoral degree. PhD students choose one of three sub-fields in which to specialize: Urban Planning, Transportation and Regional Economic Development; Earth Science and Natural Resource Management; or Geographic Information Science.

The degree culminates in one of two projects: the traditional dissertation or three papers of publishable quality. 

Geography PH.D. PROGRAM DISTINCTIONS

Georgraphy PhD students at UNCG learn to use state-of -the-art technology and work closely with award-winning faculty who are world-renowned researchers in their fields. 

• Students have access to modern geographic technology, including an oversized cartographic plotter, GPS equipment, and computers with industry-standard software programs like Arc/Info, ArcView, ERDAS Imagine, ArcGIS, Surfer, AtlasGIS, MapInfo, and ER Mapper.
• State-of-the-art laboratories – like the Geomorphology and Weather and Climate Lab and the Regolith Analysis Laboratory – offer in-depth geographic analysis using the latest precision instruments.  
• UNCG’s sustainability initiatives have earned the university designations and rankings for environmental responsibility.

THE Geography Ph.D. STUDENT EXPERIENCE

Students work directly with a faculty advisor to plan their research project(s) and take advantage of hands-on experience in the field.

• Competitive funding packages are available including teaching assistantships, research assistantships, and graduate school fellowships. 
• The degree culminates in one of two projects: the traditional dissertation or three papers of publishable quality. 
• Graduate students attend professional conferences and colloquiums and are encouraged to present and/or publish their theses and dissertations. 

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

Read More About Dr. Sultana’s Research

AFTER GRADUATIng with a Ph.D. in Geography

Recent graduates of the Geography PhD program boast a high placement rate in tenure-stream faculty positions across the country. In addition to teaching and research, they can also pursue high-level positions in the following sectors:

• Environmental consulting
• Mining and sustainable energy
• Government and public policy development

APPLication Information for the Ph.D in Geography 

Minimum requirements to be considered for admission include:

• 36 hours of undergraduate work in geography or an allied discipline.
• Acceptable scores on the GRE exam. 
• Three strong letters of recommendation.
• A personal statement that summarizes your background and interests in pursuing an advanced degree in geography.

Applicants are also encouraged to submit a writing sample (i.e., publication, research paper written for class, report relevant to your professional activities) that demonstrates their writing ability.

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