Why Study Geography and Geographic Information Science?

Major/​Minor | Technology | CAS

Geography and Geographic Information Science (GIS) majors seek to understand patterns of human activity and natural processes on the surface of the earth, often focusing in subfields ranging from cartography to urban planning to climatology and computer mapping. As a geography major at UW-River Falls, you’ll hone your skills through high-impact experiences including undergraduate research opportunities, state-of-the-art technology and a robust internship program.

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Geography and Geographic Information Science

cas@uwrf.edu // 715-425-3777

Your Degree:

Undergraduate

Area of Study:

Technology

Computer Science professor casually talks with students during class

Skills and Learning Outcomes

  • Collect and analyze data and interpret its significance within the context of human activity and natural processes.
  • Gain experience and develop proficiency with geographical research tools including spatial statistics, cartography and GIS.
  • Effectively communicate geographical concepts and data to a variety of audiences using oral, written and visual forms.
  • Develop and sharpen transferable skills, including critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Types of Courses

  • Advanced Map Design
  • Asia and Oceana
  • Economic Geography
  • Field Methods in Geography and GIS
  • Human Geography
  • Physical Environment: Patterns and Systems
  • Poverty in the U.S
  • Quantitative Analysis
  • Weather and Climate
Two students stare at a laptop waiting for data on their experiment
Computer Science professor answers a students' question during class

Potential Careers

A degree in geography and geographic information science prepares you for a wide variety of jobs, including:

  • Geospacial Technician
  • GIS Mapping 
  • GIS Project Manager
  • GIS Conservation Specialist

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