Jeff Benowitz with UAF's Geophysical Institute leads a research field trip near Alaska's Nabesna Glacier

Geography

Bachelor's Degree Program

Study geography in one of the most exciting natural laboratories on Earth. As a geography major at UAF, you’ll have opportunities for field-based learning and undergraduate research that you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

Geography is a broad major that gives you the opportunity to explore issues such as climate change, resource development, energy use and conservation, geopolitics and sustainable development. At UAF, you’ll also get to work with top researchers in facilities that include our world-renowned Geophysical Institute.

Our program is well known by employers throughout the region, and our graduates are highly sought after for their specialized skills and hands-on training.

What Is Geography?

Geography is the study of people and places. It explores the interactions among environmental, political, cultural and economic systems, and the way that locations and places can have an impact on people. As a geography major, you can focus your studies in physical science, or investigate the systems and processes that shape human society, such as politics or economics. Careers for geography majors include jobs in management, public policy, research, teaching and environmental planning.

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Degree type:

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
Minors available in Geography and Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

Availability:

UAF's main campus in Fairbanks, Alaska

Why Study Geography at UAF?

Studying geography in the heart of Alaska offers experiences you won’t find anywhere else on Earth. These are some of the unique opportunities you will benefit from when you major in geography at the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

Study geography in the natural laboratory of Alaska

With its glaciers, earthquakes, volcanoes, mineral and oil deposits, Alaska offers one-of-a-kind opportunities to experience different areas of geographic study first hand. Learn more about why to study geography in Alaska.

Engage in diverse undergraduate research experiences

Conduct research focused on the North in the heart of Alaska. We offer a wide range of undergraduate research opportunities in areas such as glaciers and permafrost, tectonics and sedimentation, volcanology and remote sensing and GIS. Learn more about research in the Department of Geosciences at UAF.

Take part in unique field-based learning opportunities

UAF offers more opportunities for undergraduate research than many larger universities and access to unique research initiatives, including in our International Arctic Research Center. Collaborate with professors who have appointments with major research institutes. Study in the natural laboratory of Alaska and investigate firsthand the effects of climate change.

Learn using state-of-the-art facilities

As a geography major at UAF, you’ll have access to all the special facilities located at the world-renowned Geophysical Institute, as well as those contained in the Advanced Instrumentation Laboratory.

Specialize your geography degree in an area that interests you

The Bachelor of Science in Geography degree offers concentrations in environmental studies, landscape analysis and climate change studies and geospatial sciences. Learn more about specialization options for the degree in geography.

Work one-on-one with world-renowned researchers

Our faculty include award-winning teachers and world experts in permafrost research, glaciology, seismology, volcanology and remote sensing, among others. Small classes allow you the opportunity to engage directly in classroom discussions and to get to know your professors and peers. Learn more about the classroom experience as a geography major at UAF.

What Can You Do With a Degree in Geography?

Graduates of the bachelor’s in geography degree find work in such fields as geospatial sciences (GIS/remote sensing/cartography), regional planning, international relations, state and federal resource management, transportation planning, environmental impact assessment, tourism and teaching. Many of our students also go on to graduate study in geography, natural resources, environmental science or planning.

Jobs for geography majors

Careers in geography include:

Environmental consultant
K-12 teacher
Cartographer
Town planner
GIS analyst

Geography salary

According to recent data from PayScale.com, graduates with a Bachelor of Science in geography earn an average of $60,000 per year.

Geography Major Requirements

The geography degree provides a solid foundation in core topics such as global geographic perspectives, geography of the earth’s natural systems, geography of human systems and geospatial sciences (including GIS, remote sensing and geo-visualization). The program also features a capstone experience that synthesizes these perspectives and offers additional opportunities to apply what you learn in real-world settings.

View all required classes for the degree in geography

Bachelor’s Degree Programs Related to Geography

Get Started on Your Bachelor’s Degree in Geography

Take the next step toward earning your bachelor’s degree. We have the resources to help you get started.

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Transfer to UAF

Transferring to UAF? We can walk you through the process and help make sure you get the most out of the credits you’ve earned.

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Earn your bachelor’s degree in geography at UAF. Submit your application online today.