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Social Science > Academics > Programs >

Geography BA / BS

Geography

Bachelor of Arts / Bachelor of Science

Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences

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    The Bachelor of Science degree in Geography provides comprehensive academic training in the human dimensions of the environment, particularly how people are affected by the environment, and how they alter and change it. Geographic knowledge is essential for understanding rapid social and environmental change in a globalized society. Geographers describe, analyze, and explain the arrangement of the Earth’s physical and social features. With training in both the natural and social sciences, geographers have a wide range of career opportunities in public, private, academic, and non-profit sectors. Geographers are increasingly in demand for jobs that require expertise in geospatial techniques, such as geographic information systems (GIS), global positioning systems (GPS), remote sensing, cartography, data science, and data analytics.

  • Concentrations
  • In addition to the general curriculum, the Bachelor of Science degree in Geography offers concentrations in Earth Observation and Geospatial Analytics; Human, Environment, and Economic Geography; and Physical Environment and Climate.

    Earth Observation & Geospatial Analytics

    Whether learning how to interpret complex data, draw meaningful conclusions, and think critically about the world around us, a degree in geography equips students with strong analytical skills to understand and address numerous global challenges using the power of spatial data science. By learning to use cutting-edge geospatial technologies to examine spatial relationships and system interactions, geographers contribute to sustainable solutions and informed decision-making through a wide range of rewarding careers here in Michigan and across the World.

    Interests include:

    • GIS
    • Drones
    • Remote Sensing
    • Spatial Analysis
    • Modeling
    • Data Science

    Physical Environment and Climate

    Whether it's analyzing the impacts of climate change, understanding the consequences of human actions, or assessing the sustainability of different environments, a degree in geography equips students with the tools to make informed decisions and contribute to solutions to make the planet a better place and find rewarding careers here in Michigan and across the World.

    Interests include:

    • Weather
    • Climate
    • Hazards
    • Water
    • Plants
    • Soils

    Human-Environment and Economic Geography

    By exploring the intricate and often complex relationships between our natural and built environments, a degree in geography enables students to gain a comprehensive and holistic approach to understanding our world in order to foster meaningful connections and contribute positively to society in a wide array of rewarding careers here in Michigan and across the World.

    Interests include:

    Human Ecology
    Urban Development
    Public Health
    Economics
    Geopolitics
    Planning Interactions

  • Curriculum
  • View the list of courses on the MSU Office of the Registrar's website.

    Bachelor of ScienceBachelor of ArtsCOURSE DESCRIPTIONS
  • Career Outcomes
  • Possible career opportunities with a degree in Geography include:

    • Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
    • Global Positioning systems (GPS)
    • Remote Sensing
    • Data Analytics
    • Geospatial Analyst
    • Drone Pilot
    • Data Scientist
    • Cartographer
    • Surveyor
    • Environmental Scientist
    • Forestry Technician
    • Air Quality Technician
    • Emergency Manager
    • Meteorologist & Climatologist
    • Transportation & Supply Chain Analyst
    • Economic Location Analyst
    • Public Health Analyst
    • Urban Planner
    • Landscape Architect

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