M.S. in Geography
The M.S. in Geography prepares students for a variety of career choices in GIS planning, environmental work, and population and site analysis. It can also prepare students for entry into many government agencies such as the EPA, Census Bureau, CIA, and Forestry Service, as well as private sector jobs in geospatial technologies, engineering, and planning firms. Another option for students with a M.S. in Geography is entry into selective Ph.D. programs.
The curriculum minimally involves 11 geography classes, or 33 credits to complete the required thesis. Programs of study are tailored to each student's interests, prior background, and career aspirations. The advising process gives students careful individual attention so that their interests are met, and so that they graduate in a timely manner. Two state-of-the-art GIS labs and a fully equipped Planning Studio are available for graduate student work. Students who enter the program on a full-time basis should be able to attain the M.S. degree in two years.
Advising sheets are available online . Paper copies are available at the Business and Public Management Center in the hallway outside of Room 505. Note that advising sheets are subject to change; students should check with their advisor before registering for classes.
The Graduate Catalog with information on graduate geography courses may be viewed here.
Admission to the Program
Applicants will submit transcripts of all undergraduate work, two letters of recommendation, a resume that indicates relevant work experience, and a personal statement of career background and goals. GRE or other standardized scores are useful in the admission process, but not required. The department welcomes qualified applicants who have no previous background in geography, although additional preliminary or concurrent work may be required. We offer rolling admissions so applications are reviewed throughout the year for fall and spring start dates. Admission is based on a holistic evaluation of an applicant's submitted materials.
To Apply
Interested students can complete the online graduate application here. The plan number on the application for the MS in Geography program is A539.