Morgantown, WV
https://www.marshall.edu/online/programs/geography-m-s/#overview
Marshall University offers a Master of Science in Geography with a focus on Geographic Information Science (GIScience) and physical geography.
The 34-credit-hour program is designed to be completed in approximately two years, with the option for online learning. Students gain expertise in addressing contemporary challenges such as urban planning, climate change, environmental sustainability, and disaster management.
Curriculum and Format
The program combines rigorous coursework, practical experience, and cutting-edge technology.
GEO 540: Spatial Statistics and GIS
Focuses on using statistical methods and GIS tools for spatial data analysis, including mapping, descriptive statistics, and inferential spatial analysis.
GEO 615: Geographic Thought
Explores the history, key figures, and major paradigms in geography, providing an overview of foundational geographic concepts.
GEO 616: Geographical Research Methods
Covers qualitative, quantitative, GIScience, and field/lab research methods, emphasizing application and selection for geographic studies.
GEO 679: Portfolio and Career Profile
Students develop a professional portfolio, complete a written project, and enhance their career profiles in preparation for post-graduate opportunities.
GEO 681: Thesis
Students conduct in-depth research culminating in a thesis, requiring coursework in research methods and advisor approval.
GEO 523: Cartography & GIS
Introduces cartography as the foundation of GIScience, covering map design, interpretation, and data visualization techniques.
GEO 526: Principles of GIS
Provides foundational GIS skills for graduate students, focusing on essential tools and techniques for GIScience applications.
GEO 527: Principles of GIS II
Advanced GIS course covering geodatabases, scripting, web mapping, spatial analysis, and workflow automation.
GEO 529: Location Analysis and GIS
Examines location analysis for industries and services, using GIS to model resources, logistics, and market dynamics.
GEO 530: Environmental Raster Analysis
Focuses on raster-based GIS techniques, including terrain analysis, surface modeling, and advanced spatial analysis for environmental applications.
GEO 531: Remote Sensing & Photogrammetry
Covers the acquisition, interpretation, and analysis of satellite and aerial imagery for geographic applications.
GEO 534: Flood Hazards and GIS
Applies GIS tools to flood hazard management, including disaster preparation and mitigation strategies.
GEO 554: Drones: Remote Sensing & GIS
Covers FAA regulations, drone operations, imagery processing, and integration of drone data with GIS systems.
GEO 631: Applied GIS Projects
Uses advanced GIS techniques to address community-focused research and service problems.
GEO 634: GIS Databases & Programming
Teaches geospatial database management and Python scripting for GIS analysis and process automation.
GEO 690: Internship in Geography
Requires 300 hours of work with an approved agency, integrating practical experience with faculty-guided progress.
GEO 502: Geography of Appalachia
Studies the geography of Appalachia, focusing on physical features, settlement patterns, and socio-economic dynamics.
GEO 504: Geography of Europe
Examines contemporary European geography, emphasizing culture, politics, urbanization, and environmental changes.
GEO 505: Political Geography
Explores global political patterns and processes, including geopolitics, governance, and the spatial impacts of globalization.
GEO 506: Population Geography
Analyzes global population dynamics, including fertility, migration, urbanization, and resource sustainability.
GEO 508: Geography of South & Middle America
Focuses on settlement, transportation, agriculture, and geopolitics in South and Middle America.
GEO 510: Urban Geography
Studies the structure, governance, and challenges of urban areas, emphasizing social and environmental impacts.
GEO 522: Environmental Geography
Examines human-induced environmental changes, focusing on resources, pollution, and sustainability.
GEO 524: Transportation Geography
Analyzes transportation systems, including spatial organization, traffic modeling, and logistics.
GEO 525: Climatology
Explores weather and climate patterns, classification methods, and world climatic regions.
GEO 550: Extreme Weather
Covers extreme weather events, including hurricanes, floods, and droughts, with a focus on mitigation strategies.
GEO 560: Weather Analysis
Introduces weather map reading and techniques for meteorological analysis, including satellite imagery interpretation.
GEO 607: Economic Geography
Examines topics like industrial location, transportation systems, global trade, and economic development.
GEO 617/618/619: Seminars in Geography
Focus on specialized topics in geography through a seminar-based learning approach.
GEO 620: Problems in Environmental Geography
Explores global environmental issues, including climate change, resource depletion, and population growth.
GEO 623: Regions of North America
Studies North America’s regional geographies, emphasizing research methods and regional delineation.
Students can choose between a thesis track, ideal for those pursuing research or doctoral studies, and a non-thesis portfolio option focusing on career advancement.
More info about the curriculum here.
Faculty and Resources
Courses are taught by experienced faculty with PhDs in geography, ensuring high-quality instruction. Students have access to Marshall’s extensive resources, including GIS software licenses, a physical geography lab, and a GIScience computer lab.
Online learners benefit from the same resources, including research libraries, the Writing Center, and IT support.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the program are prepared for careers in both the public and private sectors. Potential roles include cartographer, climate change analyst, urban planner, sustainability coordinator, and remote sensing specialist. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for geoscientists in 2023 was $92,580, reflecting strong earning potential.
Admission and Financial Aid
Applicants must submit a resume, two recommendation letters, and a curriculum vitae. Graduate assistantships and additional financial support are available, providing opportunities for teaching, research, and hands-on project involvement.
Program Highlights
Marshall’s M.S. in Geography program offers an innovative curriculum, flexible learning options, and comprehensive support, equipping students with technical, analytical, and practical skills to excel in geography-related fields or pursue advanced academic work.
This program’s interdisciplinary approach bridges social sciences, natural sciences, and STEM disciplines, addressing critical global challenges.