Geography offers a unique perspective on many of today’s most important issues--from globalization, international development and ethnic conflict to environmental problems, population growth, and climate change. Its theories and methods provide analytical techniques applicable to a wide range of questions significant to a broad spectrum of occupations.

The Department of Geography provides students with the opportunity to enhance their analytical skills, gain a critical global perspective on resource issues and societal problems, obtain an appreciation of the significance of human-environment relations, and gain training in advanced computer-based techniques.

Students can take courses in human geography, physical geography, and geospatial computer techniques.

The job market in Geography is very strong, offering a variety of employment opportunities in government, industry, and education. Salaries for our recent graduates were as high as $46,000 in 2005. Government agencies recognize the quality of our undergraduate program, often seeking our students for employment. A Spring 2005 U.S. Department of Labor brochure highlights the numerous opportunities available for geography majors.The Association of American Geographers also has an excellent website on careers in the field.

The U.S. Department of Labor also notes that the geospatial industry (involving GIS, remote sensing, and GPS) will be one of the top three growth sectors in the future for the U.S. economy.

To learn more about the Geography major, there are two brochures to view. One is in regular format and the other is a tri-fold brochure. Both are in Adobe Acrobat format.

CHECKSHEETS

Below arelinks to the checksheets for your year of graduation. All are available in Adobe Acrobat format:

• Geospatial and Environmental Analysis focuses on providing extensive skills in making and interpreting maps, Geographic Information Systems, and remote sensing. Students also gain competence in physical geography, which examines human-environment interactions and the processes affecting climate, land forms, vegetation, soils, and water. Click on your year of graduation (2007-2008, 2008-2009, 2009-2010 ) to access the checksheet in Adobe Acrobat format.

• Culture, Regions, and International Development provides a geographic perspective on critical contemporary issues involving society, economy, and resources. Key themes include population and resources, land-use patterns, health and environment, the significance of location, and how the processes of globalization are transforming regions, countries, and localities. Click on your year of graduation (2007-2008, 2008-2009, 2009-2010) to access the checksheet in Adobe Acrobat format.

GEOGRAPHY MINOR REQUIREMENTS

Click here to access the requirements for the Geography minor in Adobe Acrobat format.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

For more information on a major or minor in Geography, contact the Head of Undergraduate Advising, James Campbell, Phone: (540) 231- 5841

undergraduate/M.S. Program

Sidman P. Poole Scholarships in Geography

Research Funding

Employment Opportunities

Student Forms

Graduate Program