Frequently Asked Questions

What is Geography?

Geography is the science of place: where things are located on the Earth and why, how places differ, and how humans shape and are affected by the Earth. Geographers use tools such as computer mapping and modeling to better understand these relationships in a rapidly changing world.

These skills can be applied to almost all fields, including social sciences, natural resources disciplines such as range, forestry, fisheries, watershed protection and restoration and urban planning.

What type of students study Geography?

Students who …

  • Want to use computer technology to help solve natural resource problems.
  • Are curious about the world and its cultures.
  • Want to teach.
  • Are concerned about worldwide problems, ranging from hunger and poverty to global warming.
  • Want to prepare for graduate study, law school or an MBA.

What do Geography majors study?

Students study both physical and human geography at different scales. They learn the important skills and tools of geography such as mapping, remote sensing, geographic information systems, but also explore the cultural and human elements of societies.

The Geography Teaching minor certifies a graduate for teaching geography in Utah at a secondary school level. These students develop geography teaching methods in addition to secondary education practicum and theory courses.

What type of jobs do graduates get?

  • Working for federal agencies such as the National Imagery and Mapping Agency, the US Geological Survey, the CIA, or the Department of State, and careers in the military.
  • Working in the private sector (transportation, utility, real estate, or marketing companies)
  • Working for state agencies including those dealing with agriculture and natural resources, the Department of Environmental Quality, planning, the Governor’s office,
  • Working in city and county planning
  • Teaching in high schools

Where are our graduates now?

  • Doctoral student, soil science (Class of 2007)
  • Graduate student, bioregional planning (Class of 2011)
  • Junior high school teacher, Granite School District (Class of 2008)
  • Medical student (Class of 2010)
  • Research scientist, Michigan Tech University (Class of 2007)