Program Overview
The University of Kansas' MS Geography program offers a customizable curriculum with core areas in human geography, geoinformatics, physical geography, regional geography, and atmospheric science. Students complete a minimum of 30 credit hours, including 17 graduate-level courses within the department, and a thesis or project. The program emphasizes broad geographic training and encourages specialization in chosen areas.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Master of Science in Geography (MS Geography) program at the University of Kansas emphasizes broad geographic training, encouraging in-depth specialization in chosen areas. Students are encouraged to take courses outside the department to complement their degree programs. The program is tailored by the student and advisor to meet individual interests and needs, fulfilling general degree requirements.
The core research-teaching areas of the department include:
- Human Geography: This encompasses cultural geography, regional development, and environmental policy.
- Geoinformatics: This area focuses on cartography, geographic information systems, and remote sensing.
- Physical Geography: This includes geomorphology, soils, and biogeography.
- Regional Geography: This covers Africa, East Asia, Russia, Latin America, and the United States.
- Atmospheric Science and Climatology: This area emphasizes the study of the atmosphere and climate.
Assessment:
- Proposal Defense: This involves a presentation and questioning by the committee (at least 3 members). Two grades are possible: "satisfactory" and "unsatisfactory." A failed defense can be repeated once with committee recommendation. Two consecutive failures result in dismissal. A 90-day minimum must pass between defenses.
- Thesis Oral Defense: The student presents their thesis before a committee (at least 3 members). Grades include "satisfactory", "unsatisfactory", or "honors." A failed defense can be repeated once with program recommendation. A 90-day minimum must pass between defenses.
Other:
- The program requires a minimum of 30 credit hours.
- A minimum of 17 credit hours must be at the graduate level within the department.
- At least three courses should be in Physical Geography or Methods and Techniques.
- Elective courses are chosen in consultation with the advisor.
- Graduate students must understand and follow Office of Graduate Studies policies.
- Detailed information on department regulations is available in the Geography and Atmospheric Science Graduate Student Handbook.
