Maine Geography Degree Programs

The University of Maine at Farmington (UMF) offers a robust Geography and Environmental Planning program with diverse courses, specialized concentrations, and real-world learning opportunities, preparing students for careers in environmental advocacy, planning, and geospatial technology. Recognized as a “Top Green College” by the Princeton Review, UMF emphasizes sustainability through initiatives like the Sustainable Campus Coalition and offers financial benefits for New England students via the NEBHE Tuition Break.

At the University of Southern Maine (USM), the Geography-Anthropology program integrates geography and anthropology, with hands-on experiences and three specialization tracks, supported by advanced labs and accelerated graduate pathways in partnership with the Muskie School of Public Service.

University of Maine

Farmington, ME

https://usm.maine.edu/geography-anthropology

Comprehensive Curriculum in Geography and Environmental Planning

The Geography and Environmental Planning Department at the University of Maine at Farmington (UMF) offers a diverse curriculum that equips students with skills in spatial analysis, environmental problem-solving, and a deep understanding of human-environment interactions.

Courses like World Geography, Geography of Climate Change, and The Power of Maps engage students with topics ranging from cultural geography to the role of mapping in history and modern society.

Flexible Pathways and Specialized Concentrations

Students in the Geography and Environmental Planning program can pursue a variety of concentrations, including Environmental Health, Geosciences, and Policy. UMF also offers the flexibility to create a custom pathway, allowing students to tailor their education to fit specific career goals and interests.

Real-World Learning through Internships and Research

UMF emphasizes hands-on experience by offering valuable internship opportunities with organizations like the Portland Water District and the Maine Oyster Company. Recent student research projects have tackled real-world issues, such as invasive species management, community gardening, and sustainability practices, providing students with meaningful professional experience.

Student Research and Environmental Impact

Student projects often address pressing environmental concerns. For example, a recent study examined the impact of the invasive European green crab on Maine’s seafood industry, exploring potential economic uses for the species in culinary markets. These projects reflect UMF’s commitment to supporting student research that addresses local and global environmental challenges.

Recognition as a “Top Green College”

UMF has been recognized as a “Top Green College” by the Princeton Review, an acknowledgment of its sustainability-focused curriculum and campus practices.

Environmental sustainability is woven into the UMF campus culture, as evidenced by the Sustainable Campus Coalition, a biomass heating plant, and LEED-certified buildings, which collectively reduce the university’s carbon emissions significantly.

Financial Accessibility for New England Students

Through the NEBHE Tuition Break, UMF provides a tuition discount to students from Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont. This financial support fosters a diverse, environmentally conscious community of students eager to engage with geography and environmental issues.

Preparation for Careers in Geography and Environmental Planning

Graduates of UMF’s Geography and Environmental Planning program are well-prepared for careers in fields such as environmental advocacy, community planning, and geospatial technologies. By blending theoretical learning with practical experience, UMF ensures that students are equipped to tackle today’s environmental and societal challenges.


University of Southern Maine

Portland, ME

https://usm.maine.edu/geography-anthropology

The Geography-Anthropology program at the University of Southern Maine (USM) combines geography and anthropology to examine human populations’ relationships with natural and built environments. Offering a Bachelor of Arts with three specializations and two teacher certification tracks, this program provides students with a unique interdisciplinary education that emphasizes community engagement and applied learning.

Specializations and Study Tracks

Students can tailor their studies by choosing from three specialized tracks: Sustainable Cultures & Communities, Cultural & Natural Heritage Management, and Applied Geographic Information Systems (GIS) & Geospatial Analysis. For those interested in teaching, there are pathways for elementary education and secondary education in social studies, preparing students for careers in education with a focus on geography and anthropology.

Hands-On Learning and Research Opportunities

The program emphasizes real-world learning through case studies, fieldwork, and lab-based projects, allowing students to engage in qualitative and quantitative research. Internships, assistantships, and fellowships funded by organizations like NASA and the National Science Foundation provide additional hands-on experience, which often leads to publications and presentations at industry conferences.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

USM offers access to specialized laboratories, including Archaeology, Environmental Archaeology, and Biological-Zooarchaeology labs, along with GIS labs. These facilities provide students with tools for research, data analysis, and practical application of geospatial technologies, enhancing their learning experience and skill development.

Student Learning Outcomes

The program ensures that students gain an appreciation for cultural diversity, an understanding of human-environmental relationships, knowledge of global and local geography, and critical thinking skills. Cartographic skills and research methodologies are also emphasized, preparing graduates to tackle complex, real-world problems in various fields.

Accelerated Graduate Pathways

USM offers accelerated graduate programs in partnership with the Muskie School of Public Service and the University of Maine Law School, allowing students to earn both a Bachelor of Arts in Geography-Anthropology and a Master’s degree in Policy, Planning, and Management or a Juris Doctorate within a reduced timeframe.

Career Prospects and Professional Development

Graduates of this program have diverse career options in areas like archaeology, cultural resource management, environmental planning, policy, emergency management, and geospatial analysis. Professional growth is further supported by organizations like the Geography-Anthropology Student Association (GASA) and affiliations with national academic societies.

Flexible Learning and Accessibility

Courses are available in various formats, including in-person, online, and blended options, with classes offered on both the Gorham and Portland campuses. Additionally, New England residents may qualify for a tuition break, making this program more accessible and affordable for regional students.

Admissions and Financial Aid

With SAT and ACT scores optional and rolling admissions, USM offers accessible entry into the program. Financial aid opportunities are extensive, with an average of 92% of students receiving support, including scholarships, grants, and work-study, ensuring financial assistance is available for most enrolled students.