School of Earth, Environment and Society

Geography

Geography links environmental sciences, nature-society relations, and socio-cultural studies in programs centered on global sustainability, socio-cultural and natural landscapes, and geographic information science (GIS).

At PSU, you’ll learn systematic and geospatial approaches to understanding the physical and human-environment interactions. Techniques classes in GIS, remote sensing, cartography and spatial analysis provide you with the tools to be able to analyze complex local, regional, and global phenomena. With Portland’s proximity to cities, rural areas, the Pacific coast and Cascade Mountains, there are ample opportunities for fieldwork-based classes and research.

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Undergraduate Programs

Professor and students at river’s edge pointing to city skyline

Geography BA/BS/Minor

Develop an appreciation and understanding of the human environment on global, regional, and local scales with the background and requisite training for careers in resource, planning, environmental, or education fields.

Aerial view of city

Geography Bachelor’s + GIS Master’s

With a B+M program, you can share up to 20 graduate credits between your bachelor’s in geography and master’s in GIS.

 

Students walking on trail in forested park

Environmental Studies BA/BS

Better understand environment-society interactions through a social science lens and prepare for careers in environmental policy and governance.

Antarctica landscape

Climate Change Science and Adaptation Minor

With climate change one of the most critical issues facing the world today, gain a broad understanding of the physical science underlying human-caused climate change, what those changes mean for society and the environment, and how society can best manage these changes.

Spatial mapping

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Minor

Knowledge of GIS and geospatial technology is in high demand in many fields. The spatial perspective and skills you’ll learn can expand your job prospects in careers as diverse as natural resource management, urban planning, conservation, data analytics and utilities. 

Student standing on rock collecting sample from river

Water Resources Minor

Develop broad training in hydrologic, hydrosocial, biogeophysical and political dimensions of water resource issues at local, regional, national and international scales.

Graduate Programs

Map of Portland

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Graduate Certificate

Get an introductory and in-depth study into the design and application of GIS technology. You can earn the certificate as a standalone credential or apply credits toward the master’s when you’re ready.

Students looking at maps on computer

Geographic Information Science (GIS) Master’s

Become equipped with the hands-on geospatial training and technical knowledge you need to successfully become a GIS professional or advance your GIS career.

Professor and student looking at climate models on computer

Geography MA/MS

Design a program of study tailored to your interests that will prepare you for careers in research or administration in government and industry, urban and regional planning, and in secondary education and community college teaching.

Professor and student collecting data at field site

Earth, Environment, and Society Ph.D.

Engage in relevant research while acquiring advanced academic training in environmental science and management, geography, geology, or another related field.