Arkansas Geography Degree Programs

Arkansas universities offer online and on-campus geography programs covering spatial analysis, GIS, cartography, and environmental studies. Students can pursue degrees, minors, and certificates at institutions like the University of Central Arkansas and the University of Arkansas, preparing for geospatial technology, urban planning, and environmental management careers.

Online Options in Arkansas

The University of Central Arkansas

• Conway, AR
• https://uca.edu/geography/online-courses

The University of Central Arkansas offers general online geography courses that provide foundational knowledge in geographic concepts, spatial analysis, and cartographic techniques.

The department offers undergraduate and graduate courses covering world regions, geographic methodologies, and cartographic techniques. These online courses help students analyze cultural and physical areas, understand geographic patterns, and develop technical mapping and data visualization skills.

Undergraduate Online Courses

Students can take Geography of World Regions (GEOG 1300), which examines cultural and physical geography through global perspectives. Principles of Geography (GEOG 1305) introduces fundamental geographic concepts and methodologies, helping students understand human and environmental patterns.

Cartography (GEOG 2375) focuses on computer-aided mapping, geographic data collection, and spatial communication, teaching students how to create and interpret maps effectively.

Graduate Online Programs

Graduate students can pursue online coursework through the Master of GIS and GIS Certificate programs. These programs provide advanced training in geographic information systems, preparing students for spatial analysis, urban planning, environmental management, and geospatial technology careers. Students gain expertise in using GIS tools to analyze and visualize geographic data for practical applications in various industries.

University of Arkansas

• Fayetteville, AR
• https://online.uark.edu/programs/minor-geography.php

Online Minor in Geography

The online Minor in Geography at the University of Arkansas’ Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences provides students with valuable geography and geographic information science (GIS) skills. This program complements other fields, incorporating geographic concepts, offering students marketable spatial analysis and mapping expertise. Students can apply up to six course credits from the minor toward the Certificate of Proficiency in Geospatial Technologies, making it a flexible and strategic option for those interested in geospatial sciences.

Certificate of Proficiency in Geospatial Technologies

The Certificate of Proficiency in Geospatial Technologies is designed for working professionals and newcomers interested in geospatial careers. This program provides students with essential skills in GIS, remote sensing, LiDAR, GPS, and geospatial databases, all in high demand across multiple industries. The program follows the Geospatial Technology Competency Model (GTCM) set by the U.S. Department of Labor, ensuring students gain relevant and industry-standard knowledge.

Career and Certification Opportunities

The geospatial technology is one of the fastest-growing industries, with applications in environmental management, energy development, logistics, marketing, and public health. Students completing this certificate will be prepared for external industry certifications, including:

• Geospatial Intern Program certification (ASPRS)
• Certified ArcGIS Desktop Associate (Esri)
• Geographic Information Science Professional (GISP) exam

Program Structure and Eligibility

The certificate requires 12 to 18 credit hours and can be completed in two semesters (one year). Students with prior knowledge can waive up to six credit hours through pre-testing. To enroll, applicants should have an associate degree, two years of college credit, or equivalent work experience.

Required Courses

Students must complete two core courses:

• Human Geography (GEOL 11103)
• World Regional Geography (GEOG 21003)

Additionally, students choose three elective courses (9 hours) from options such as Geospatial Applications, Spatial Analysis Using ArcGIS, Geospatial Data Science in Public Health, and Introduction to Geodatabases.

This program equips students with skills to analyze and visualize geographic data, making them competitive in the rapidly expanding geospatial technology job market.

On Campus Programs

University of Arkansas

• Fayetteville, AR
• https://catalog.uark.edu/undergraduatecatalog/collegesandschools/jwilliamfulbrightcollegeofartsandsciences/geography

The Geography program offers a Bachelor of Arts degree with options for a general geography major or a concentration in cartography and remote sensing GIS. Students also have the option to pursue minors in geography and historic preservation. Early program declaration allows students to work closely with the department to customize their coursework and engage in departmental activities.

Core Requirements and Electives

To complete the major, students must fulfill the University Core requirements, the Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences graduation requirements, and specific geography courses totaling 41 credits. Core courses include Human Geography, World Regional Geography, Physical Geology, and Earth Science, with advanced coursework in cartography and geospatial applications. Fifteen hours of upper-level electives in geography are also required, spanning technical, regional, and topical courses.

Specializations and Honors

Students may enhance their geography degree by specializing in cartography/remote sensing, gaining expertise in map design, remote sensing, and GIS technologies. The program also offers an honors track, where qualified students can engage in research and thesis work to graduate with distinction. For those interested in teaching, consultation with the department ensures the integration of certification requirements.

Writing and Research Opportunities

The program includes a college writing requirement, fulfilled through a term paper or an honors thesis. Students are encouraged to take GEOS 4100V for research experience, particularly if they plan to attend graduate school. Electives in related fields can also be incorporated into the major with departmental approval, broadening students’ academic exposure.

Geography Minor Options

The geography minor requires 15 credit hours, including foundational courses and advanced electives in regional and topical studies. A separate minor in historic preservation is available, focusing on architectural history, urban studies, and conservation techniques. This minor includes a hands-on capstone course in building materials field studies, ideal for students pursuing careers in preservation.

Eight-Semester Degree Path

An eight-semester degree plan is available, guiding students through a structured progression of coursework. This pathway includes required courses in physical geography, humanities, social sciences, and electives, ensuring a well-rounded academic experience. Students receive personalized support to complete the program in four years.

University of Central Arkansas

• Conway, AK
• https://uca.edu/geography

The Geography Department at the University of Central Arkansas (UCA) provides a diverse and comprehensive understanding of both natural and human systems. Through various academic programs and hands-on research opportunities, the department emphasizes the study of spatial relationships and the interactions between people and their environment.

Academic Programs

The department offers several undergraduate programs, including a major in Geography, a Geospatial Concentration, and an Environmental Science track focused on Planning & Administration. For advanced studies, students can pursue a Master’s degree in GIS or a GIS Certificate, which provides specialized training in geographic information systems and spatial analysis.

Skills and Training

Students in UCA’s Geography programs receive training in essential geospatial skills, including cartography, remote sensing, and GIS. These skills apply to a wide range of careers in geographic and related professions, preparing graduates for roles that require proficiency in spatial data analysis and geographic technology.

Career Opportunities for Graduates

Graduates of the Geography Department find employment in various public and private sectors. Notable employers include the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, the National Park Service, the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department, and Pulaski Area GIS. The department’s alumni work in roles focused on conservation, urban planning, and resource management, demonstrating the versatility of a geography degree.

Faculty Research and Student Projects

The Geography Department faculty is actively engaged in research across a wide range of topics, such as water conservation, wildfire ecology, the impacts of transportation systems on regional economies, and storm development. Students can participate in faculty-led research projects or develop their inquiries. Recent student projects have included studies on urban planning impacts, Safe Routes to School infrastructure, and the effects of recreational trail use on water quality.

Hands-On Learning Opportunities

UCA’s Geography students benefit from practical, hands-on learning through various research projects and field studies. These experiences allow students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, enhancing their understanding of geographic processes and preparing them for careers that require spatial analysis and environmental insight.

Department Mission

The Geography Department’s mission is to foster spatial awareness, advance geographic knowledge, and promote an appreciation for geographic studies across UCA’s campus and throughout Arkansas. Through its programs, UCA is dedicated to equipping students with the knowledge and skills to understand and address complex spatial and environmental challenges in today’s world.

Arkansas Tech University

• Russelville, AR
• https://www.atu.edu/catalog/current/undergraduate/courses/geog.php

The Geography Program at the University of Arkansas offers an undergraduate major leading to a Bachelor of Arts in Geography, with options to pursue a standard geography track or a concentration in Cartography and Remote Sensing GIS. In addition, students can choose minors in Geography or Historic Preservation to complement their studies.

Degree Options and Minors

Students majoring in geography are encouraged to engage with the department early to plan a coherent sequence of courses and participate in departmental activities. Degree options include a B.A. in Geography, a B.A. in Geography with a Cartography/Remote Sensing GIS concentration, and minors in Geography and Historic Preservation.

Multidisciplinary Approach

Drawing upon various disciplines like geography, geology, Earth science, and GIScience, the program offers comprehensive training across the geosciences. Available degree options include Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Ph.D. programs in geosciences. Faculty-led research spans diverse physical and human systems and employs advanced geospatial technologies.

Faculty and Facilities

The Geography Program has ten full-time faculty members who provide quality instruction and contribute to significant research in geosciences. The program emphasizes a blend of coursework and hands-on research, providing access to state-of-the-art teaching and research facilities and opportunities for fieldwork.

Curriculum and Writing Requirement

For a B.A. in Geography, students complete 30 credit hours, including foundational courses like GEOS 1123 and GEOL 1131L. Fifteen credits must be at the 3000 level or higher, and the program emphasizes a balance between regional and topical courses. Students also meet the College Writing Requirement by completing a satisfactory term paper in an upper-level geography course or through an honors thesis.

Graduate Preparation and Electives

Students aiming for graduate school are encouraged to take GEOS 410V in their senior year. With department approval, electives in related fields may be counted toward the major, allowing students to tailor their education to specific interests. Those interested in secondary education should consult the department for guidance on fulfilling teaching certification requirements.

Minor in Geography

The Geography minor requires 15 credit hours, including GEOS 1123, with at least six credits at the 3000 level or higher. Coursework includes regional and topical geography courses, providing a broad foundation in the field.

Minor in Historic Preservation

The Historic Preservation minor comprises 18 credit hours from diverse areas like architecture, urban studies, and cultural resources. The required capstone course, GEOS 3033, focuses on the research and preservation of building materials, including hands-on fieldwork. Students can substitute some credits by participating in the University of Arkansas Rome Program.

Minor in Cartography/Remote Sensing GIS

This specialization allows students to gain cartography, remote sensing, and GIS expertise, covering map design, digital image processing, and analytical techniques. Students must complete specific courses to earn this specialization.

Honors in Geography

Geography majors with a GPA of 3.5 or higher may qualify for the Departmental Honors Program, which includes 12 hours of Honors Studies, including a thesis option. Graduates meeting these requirements receive the distinction “Geography Scholar Cum Laude,” with higher honors available for exceptional academic achievement.

Social Studies Teacher Licensure

Students interested in teaching social studies at the middle school level should consult with an advisor from the College of Education and Health Professions to fulfill the necessary secondary education requirements in social studies.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships are available for undergraduate and graduate students in geology and geosciences. Scholarship recipients are selected based on financial need, academic merit, and contributions to the Department of Geosciences, such as involvement in departmental activities, research presentations, or publications.