Degree Programs
The department offers opportunities for graduate study through the MS, PhD, and graduate certificate programs listed below.
The MS degree requires a minimum of 30 credits, of which 24 must be in residence. There are two options available in the MS program. The Plan A requires students to complete coursework, as well as a research thesis. The Plan B is a nonthesis, terminal degree, based largely on coursework and a professional paper or project.
For the PhD degree, there is a more variable amount of required coursework, as well as a research dissertation. Compared to the MS degree, the PhD degree has a greater emphasis on theory, research methods, writing research proposals, and publishing research in peer-reviewed outlets.
Geography
Geography is geared for students interested in exploring the availability and location of the earth’s natural resources, the physical and cultural processes that occur at the earth’s surface, and the spatial interactions among components of human society and the biophysical environment. Career opportunities are available in both the private and public sectors in such areas as business, planning, resource and economic development, environmental assessment, and education.