Geography (B.S.)

Geography is a natural and social science that studies the earth, its features, and distribution of life on the planet – including human life, effects of human activity, and natural systems.  It is a study of place and space.  Geographers ask where and why things are located on the earth’s surface, how locations differ from one another, and how people interact with their environment; they are active in the study of global warming, loss of biodiversity, desertification, deforestation, groundwater pollution, and flooding.

The B.S. in Geography at UGA is for students who typically have interests in geosciences, landforms, weather/meteorology, climate change, plant geography, or related topics.  Available coursework includes study of physical geography, earth systems, environmental geography, resources, weather and climate, landforms, statistics and geospatial analysis, global environment change, cartography, and photogrammetry.  B.S. majors tailor coursework along either a Physical Geography, Human Geography, or Geographic Information Systems (GIS) emphasis.  Students who wish to gain practical work experience with firms or organizations that employ geographers can earn 3-9 semester hours by engaging in an internship.

Career opportunities are available in business, government, and education in such areas as location analysis, regional development, urban planning, environmental assessment, and atmospheric and earth sciences.  Students pursuing study of Geographic Information Systems pursue technical fields and mapping sciences positions.

Study Abroad Options: Multiple study abroad opportunities are available.