Illinois Geography Degree Programs

Find top geography degree programs in Illinois and explore how they prepare students for diverse careers in fields like urban planning, environmental management, and geospatial analysis.

From hands-on training to interdisciplinary learning, Illinois universities offer robust programs tailored to both traditional and modern applications of geographical sciences.

Whether you’re seeking a bachelor’s degree or advanced certifications, Illinois provides excellent opportunities to launch or advance your career in geography.

Online Programs

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers an online Master of Science (M.S.) degree and a graduate certificate in CyberGIS and Geospatial Data Science, designed for professionals seeking expertise in advanced geospatial technologies.

The M.S. program (32 credit hours) focuses on geospatial artificial intelligence (AI), big data processing, high-performance computing, and visualization using tools like Python and R. Students collaborate with world-renowned faculty and industry experts while completing a capstone research project that showcases their applied skills.

The graduate certificate (12 credit hours) serves as a standalone credential or a pathway to the master’s degree, providing flexibility for those balancing work and personal commitments.

Career Opportunities and Program Benefits

Graduates of these programs are prepared for high-demand careers in government agencies, private industry, research institutions, and tech companies. CyberGIS specialists work for organizations such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), U.S. Geological Survey, Google, IBM, and ESRI, applying geospatial analytics, AI, and data science to solve real-world problems.

The fully online format allows students to advance their careers without relocating, making it an ideal choice for working professionals. Whether pursuing a master’s degree or a micro-credential in geospatial data science, students gain cutting-edge skills that enhance their expertise in an evolving industry.

On Campus Programs

University of Chicago

The University of Chicago’s Geographical Sciences program explores the interaction between human societies and the Earth’s environments. Offering a Bachelor of Arts in Geographical Studies and a minor in Geographic Information Science (GIS), the program prepares students for careers in government service, environmental consulting, planning, education, and beyond.

Bachelor of Arts in Geographical Studies (General Geography)

This program provides a strong foundation in geographical principles, integrating topics such as human geography, environmental geography, spatial analysis, and cartographic methods. Students are encouraged to pursue interdisciplinary studies by combining their geography coursework with fields like environmental biology, public policy, sociology, and economics.

Minor in Geographic Information Science (GIS)

The GIS minor offers in-depth training in spatial thinking and analytical methodologies. This minor complements a wide range of majors, including computer science, statistics, public policy studies, sociology, political science, and environmental and urban studies.

Faculty Expertise

The program’s faculty includes specialists in cultural geography, historical geography, urban geography, biogeography, and geoarchaeology. Their diverse research interests provide students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge studies.

Unique Courses

  • Roots of the Modern American City: Explores the historical development of urban spaces in the U.S.
  • Mapping the World: History of Cartography: This course includes the study of original maps from the Regenstein Library Special Collections Research Center and other Chicago-area collections, offering a unique historical perspective on cartography.

Interdisciplinary Approach

The curriculum encourages students to integrate geographical studies with other disciplines, fostering a broad understanding of the spatial relationships that shape global and local environments.

Career Preparation

Graduates are well-equipped for careers in government, environmental consulting, marketing, urban planning, education, and other fields requiring expertise in spatial analysis and environmental systems.

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

The Department of Geography & Geographic Information Science (GGIS) at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign provides a comprehensive education that bridges physical and human geography with cutting-edge geospatial technologies. The programs prepare students for impactful careers in environmental science, urban planning, GIS analysis, and related fields.

Undergraduate Degrees

  • Bachelor of Arts (B.A.):
    • General Geography
    • Human Geography
  • Bachelor of Science (B.S.):
    • Geographic Information Science (GIS)
    • Physical Geography

Graduate Degrees

  • Master of Science (M.S.)and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.):
    Specializations include:
    • Geographic Information Science
    • CyberGIS and Geospatial Data Science
    • River, Watershed, and Landscape Dynamics
    • Space, Society, and the Built Environment

Research and Facilities

The department is a global leader in geospatial research, featuring facilities like the CyberGIS Center for Advanced Digital and Spatial Studies, focusing on high-performance geospatial computing. State-of-the-art laboratories enable advanced research in spatial analysis, remote sensing, and geovisualization.

Faculty Expertise

GGIS faculty are experts in fields such as CyberGIS, big data analytics, spatio-temporal analysis, satellite remote sensing, and environmental applications. Their research spans interdisciplinary domains, contributing to the advancement of geospatial technologies and applications.

Career Opportunities

Graduates are well-prepared for careers in:

  • Urban and regional planning
  • Environmental consulting
  • GIS analysis
  • Public health
  • Transportation planning

The geospatial field is one of the fastest-growing sectors, creating strong demand for professionals trained in these areas.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville 

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s (SIUE) Department of Geography and Geographic Information Sciences (GIS) provides students with an integrated education in human and physical geography, complemented by advanced geospatial techniques. Established in 1957, the department equips students for diverse careers in environmental management, urban planning, GIS analysis, and related fields.

Undergraduate Degrees

  • Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Geography, offering specializations in:
    • Human Geography
    • Physical Geography
    • Geospatial Techniques, including cartography, GIS, and remote sensing

Graduate Degrees

  • Master of Science (M.S.) in Geography, with options for:
    • Thesis (30 credit hours): Includes a research project and comprehensive thesis presentation.
    • Non-thesis (36 credit hours): Focuses on coursework with a final research project.

Faculty Expertise

The department’s faculty specialize in areas such as:

  • Medical Geography
  • Urban Geography
  • Climatology
  • Remote Sensing
  • GIS
  • Biogeography

Their research provides students with opportunities for innovation and practical application.

Research and Facilities

SIUE emphasizes experiential learning through:

  • Internships
  • Fieldwork
  • Collaborative research projects

Students have access to state-of-the-art GIS laboratories and are encouraged to engage in community-focused initiatives to develop professional skills.

Career Opportunities

Graduates are prepared for careers in:

  • Urban and Regional Planning
  • Environmental Consulting
  • GIS Analysis
  • Geospatial Technology Fields

The program’s comprehensive curriculum ensures that students gain knowledge and practical skills highly valued in the geospatial industry.

Northern Illinois University

The Department of Earth, Atmosphere and Environment (EAE) at Northern Illinois University (NIU) offers interdisciplinary programs that combine geology, geography, and atmospheric sciences. These programs provide students with the knowledge and skills to excel in careers such as environmental science, geospatial analysis, urban planning, and meteorology.

Undergraduate Degrees

  • Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Earth, Atmosphere, and Environment with emphases in:
    • Climate Science
    • Earth and Planetary Science
    • Earth and Space Science Education
    • Environment and Society
    • Geospatial Systems
    • Water and Soil Science
  • Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Meteorology

Graduate Degrees

  • Master of Science (M.S.) in Earth, Atmosphere, and Environment
  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Earth, Atmosphere, and Environment

Certificates

  • Undergraduate Certificate in Geographic Information Science (GIS)

Research Opportunities

The department offers extensive research opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students, focusing on areas such as:

  • Glacial Geology
  • Hydrogeology
  • Geophysics
  • Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
  • Climatology

Students work alongside faculty on cutting-edge research projects that prepare them for professional and academic pursuits.

Faculty Expertise

EAE faculty specialize in diverse areas, including meteorology, climatology, geochemistry, hydrogeology, and geoscience education. Faculty members such as Professor Walker Ashley and Professor Victor Gensini are recognized for their contributions to meteorology and climate science.

Facilities and Resources

Students have access to advanced laboratories and equipment, enhancing their skills in spatial analysis, remote sensing, and geovisualization. Fieldwork and practical applications are integral to the curriculum, providing hands-on learning experiences.

Career Prospects

Graduates are well-equipped for careers in:

  • Environmental Consulting
  • Urban Planning
  • GIS Analysis
  • Transportation Planning
  • Public Health

The interdisciplinary nature of the program ensures students are prepared to tackle complex environmental and societal challenges.

Northwestern University

Northwestern University offers geography-related academic opportunities through its Program in Geography and the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences. The geography program focuses on the study of place and location, integrating human and physical geography, while the earth sciences department offers broader studies in geology, planetary sciences, and environmental systems.

Program in Geography

  • Adjunct Major and Minor in Geography:
    The program emphasizes the spatial relationships between people, places, and the environment. It includes coursework in physical geography, human geography, regional geography, and geographic analysis.

Sample Courses

  • Geography 211: World Biogeography – Explores global ecosystems and human impacts on natural systems.
  • Geography 240: Economic Geography – Examines resource distribution, land use, and global industrial production patterns.
  • Geography 341: Principles of Cartography – Focuses on thematic map design and geographic information systems (GIS).

Students are encouraged to combine geography studies with other disciplines to enhance analytical skills and spatial understanding.

Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences

  • Undergraduate and Graduate Programs:
    Offers comprehensive education in traditional and advanced topics in earth sciences. Courses cover theory, data analysis, computer modeling, laboratory exercises, and field training.
  • Minor in Earth and Planetary Sciences:
    A flexible program designed for students in other majors who seek foundational knowledge in geology and planetary sciences.

Faculty Expertise

Faculty members specialize in diverse fields such as cartography, biogeography, economic geography, GIS, and planetary geology, providing mentorship and research opportunities for students.

Research and Facilities

Students have access to advanced laboratories and resources, supporting studies in cartography, geospatial analysis, and environmental systems. The program fosters interdisciplinary research and practical applications.

DePaul University

DePaul University’s Department of Geography and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) offers a comprehensive curriculum that integrates human and physical geography with cutting-edge GIS technology.

Located in the heart of Chicago, the program provides students with the tools to address global and urban challenges, preparing them for diverse careers in planning, environmental management, geospatial analysis, and more.

Undergraduate Degrees

  • Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Geography with concentrations in:
    • Urban Development and Planning
    • Nature-Society Studies
    • Geotechnology

Minors and Certificates

  • Minor in Geography
  • Minor in GIS
  • Certificate in Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

Graduate Programs

  • Master of Science (M.S.) in Geographic Information Systems:
    This advanced program focuses on geospatial technologies, spatial data analysis, and their applications in environmental science, urban planning, and public policy.

Experiential Learning

DePaul emphasizes experiential learning through internships, research projects, and community engagement. Students benefit from the university’s location in Chicago, with opportunities to work on real-world urban and environmental challenges.

Faculty Expertise

The faculty includes specialists in urban geography, environmental sustainability, GIS, spatial analysis, and economic geography. They bring practical experience and research expertise to the classroom, offering mentorship opportunities to students.

Facilities and Resources

The department provides access to state-of-the-art GIS labs and geospatial software, ensuring students gain practical experience with industry-standard tools.

University of Illinois Chicago

The University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) offers a diverse range of geography courses through its Department of Geography. These courses provide students with an in-depth understanding of human and physical geography, geospatial analysis, and environmental studies, equipping them with analytical and practical skills applicable to various professional fields.

Undergraduate Courses

GEOG 100: Concepts in Geography

An introduction to geographic concepts encompassing cultural, urban, economic, global, and regional geography. This course is cross-listed as US 100 and fulfills Individual and Society, as well as World Cultures requirements.

GEOG 161: Introduction to Economic Geography

Examines factors of production, economic activities, and institutions that shape local economies and cultural practices, with a focus on non-Western cultures. It satisfies Individual and Society, and World Cultures requirements.

GEOG 203: Human Geography of Latin America

Explores cultural, settlement, political, and economic development in Latin America, including Puerto Rico and the Caribbean. Cross-listed as LALS 217, this course meets Individual and Society, and World Cultures requirements.

GEOG 208: Mapping the Urban

Analyzes how maps represent and influence spatial imagination, covering traditional cartography and new media. Cross-listed as US 208, it fulfills the Individual and Society requirement.

Advanced Undergraduate and Graduate Courses

GEOG 418: Ethnographic and Qualitative Research Methods

Provides a practical introduction to social science research techniques, such as participant observation and interviewing. Cross-listed as ANTH 418, it offers 3 undergraduate hours or 4 graduate hours.

GEOG 425: Field Techniques in Archaeology

Hands-on experience in archaeological field methods through research projects. Cross-listed as ANTH 425, the course may be repeated for up to 8 hours.

GEOG 477: Remote Sensing of the Environment

Covers principles and applications of remotely sensed imagery, with hands-on use of image-processing software. Cross-listed as ANTH 477, it includes extensive computer use.

GEOG 481: Geographic Information Systems I

Introduces GIS components and applications, covering geographic hierarchies, data structures, and geocoding. Cross-listed as ANTH 481, prerequisites include GEOG 100 and other foundational courses.

Career Prospects

UIC’s geography courses prepare students for careers in urban planning, environmental consulting, GIS analysis, cartography, public policy, and education. The curriculum emphasizes practical applications and interdisciplinary learning, ensuring graduates are equipped for diverse fields.

Illinois State University

Illinois State University’s Department of Geography, Geology, and the Environment provides a comprehensive education that integrates human and physical geography, geospatial technologies, and environmental studies.

The program is designed to prepare students for a variety of careers in urban planning, environmental management, GIS analysis, and related fields.

Undergraduate Degrees

  • Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Geography:
    • Focuses on the relationships between human activities and the natural environment, emphasizing spatial analysis and problem-solving skills.
  • Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Geographic Information Systems (GIS):
    • Provides specialized training in geospatial technologies, including cartography, remote sensing, and spatial data analysis.

Minors

  • Geography Minor
  • Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Minor

Experiential Learning

The department emphasizes hands-on learning through internships, field studies, and research projects. Students gain practical experience working with GIS software, conducting environmental assessments, and analyzing urban development patterns.

Faculty Expertise

Faculty members specialize in areas such as urban geography, environmental sustainability, GIS, and spatial analysis. Their diverse expertise enhances the curriculum and provides mentorship opportunities for students.

Facilities and Resources

Students have access to advanced GIS laboratories and state-of-the-art technology for spatial analysis, remote sensing, and environmental modeling.

Career Opportunities

Graduates from the program are well-prepared for careers in:

  • Urban and Regional Planning
  • Environmental Consulting
  • GIS Analysis
  • Cartography
  • Public Policy

The program’s focus on practical applications ensures that students develop skills highly valued in the job market.