Program Overview

Geography, M.S.

McCausland College of Arts and Sciences

Explore the natural environment through physical science concepts, techniques, and technology, and find solutions to contemporary global issues with our geography program.

As a master's student, you will engage in original research and learn skills and techniques that are applicable to many career fields. You will examine topics such as climate change, natural resource use, and environmental hazards under the supervision of our outstanding faculty and as part of a vibrant student community.

Program Highlights

• Classes and Faculty: Be mentored by an award-winning, approachable faculty and form close relationships through our smaller class sizes.
• Flexible Program: Take courses in physical science, social science, and technology, all taught by a faculty committed to student success.
• International Expertise: Immerse yourself in cultures from around the world, including those in Europe, the Middle East, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Central Asia.
• Make An Impact: Forge strong connections with urban and environmental policy makers and stakeholders across South Carolina and beyond.

What You’ll Study

Our graduate program offers advanced seminars in a variety of subfields, including urban geography, political geography, environmental geography, geographic information systems, and remote sensing. We also offer research opportunities in our state-of-the-art laboratories across campus, such as the Center of Excellence for Geographic Education.

Building Skills

Gain the professional and personal intelligence it takes to have a successful career.

• Multicultural Awareness: Understanding cultural variation and adapting behaviors and communication styles accordingly
• Data Analysis: Examining and interpreting information to uncover insights and inform decision making
• Presentation Skills: Preparing and delivering effective and engaging presentations to inform, persuade, or inspire
• Writing: Creating professional written content for inclusion in scholarly journal articles, books, and reports
• Critical Thinking: Analyzing and evaluating information to make informed decisions or judgments
• Research: Gathering and analyzing information to increase knowledge or solve problems

Using Your Degree

Make your college experience the foundation for a successful future.

• Potential Careers:
  • Urban Planner
  • Natural Resource Manager
  • Emergency Manager
  • Geospatial Intelligence Agent
  • Environmental Policymaker
  • GIS Consultant
• Workplace Settings:
  • Government
  • Technology
  • Insurance
  • Nonprofits and NGOs

Advanced Degrees

Advance your career or options with post-graduate education.

• Doctorate: Geography, Ph.D. (McCausland College of Arts and Sciences)