Whether you are pursuing a Bachelor’s degree or seeking certification, Maryland’s Geography programs equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to address global challenges and build a sustainable future.
From GIS and urban planning to environmental science and cartography, these programs provide comprehensive education, access to state-of-the-art labs, and numerous career opportunities in government, private sectors, and non-profits.
Quick School Comparison
University of Maryland College Park
- Degree Options: Bachelor of Science in Geographical Sciences
- Specializations:
- General Geographical Sciences
- Geospatial Data Science
- Computational Earth Observation Science
- Key Features:
- Minors in GIS and Remote Sensing
- 5-Year BS/MS Program
- Secondary Education Double Major
- Hands-On Learning:
- Internships
- Research Projects
- Fieldwork
- Career Opportunities: Esri, U.S. Census Bureau, Google, National Park Service, Environmental Monitoring, Urban Planning, Disaster Response
- Additional Programs:
- Five-Year BS/MS Program
- Minors in GIS and Remote Sensing
- Degree Options:
- Bachelor of Arts in Geography
- Bachelor of Science in Geography
- Accelerated B.S./M.A. in Geography and Environmental Planning
- Specializations:
- Geospatial Technologies
- Climate Studies
- Urban Planning
- Key Features:
- GIS
- Remote Sensing
- Cartography
- Fieldwork
- Internships
- Study Abroad
- Hands-On Learning:
- Fieldwork & Study Abroad
- Career Opportunities:
- GIS Analyst
- Urban Planner
- Environmental Consultant
- Additional Programs:
- Accelerated B.S./M.A. Program
- Study Abroad Options
- Degree Options:
- Bachelor of Science in Geography
- Master’s programs in Geography and Environmental Planning
- Specializations:
- GIS
- Meteorology
- Climatology
- Physical Geography
- Key Features:
- High accreditation standards
- Emphasis on internships and research projects
- Hands-On Learning:
- Internships
- Research Projects
- Fieldwork
- Career Opportunities:
- Urban Planning
- Environmental Consulting
- GIS Technologies
- Additional Programs:
- Accelerated B.S./M.A. Program
- Minors in GIS and Earth Science
- Degree Options
- Bachelor of Science in Geography
- Bachelor of Science in Earth Sciences
- Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science
- Specializations
- Global Systems Analysis
- Mapping Science
- Climate System Science
- Key Features
- State-of-the-art labs
- GIS
- UAS
- Remote Sensing Technologies
- Hands-On Learning
- Fieldwork & Internships
- Direct Exchange Program with Northumbria University
- Career Opportunities
- GIS Specialist
- Environmental Scientist
- Urban Planner
- Additional Programs
- Minors in Climate Science
- Geospatial Science
- Forestry
- Degree Options
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Applied Geography
- Cartography/GIS Certificate
- Geographic Education Certificate
- Specializations
- GIS
- Cartography
- Geographic Education
- Key Features
- Hands-on fieldwork and mapping projects
- Access to Cartography and GIS Lab
- Hands-on fieldwork and mapping projects
- Hands-On Learning: Fieldwork & Internships
- Career Opportunities
- GIS Specialist
- Cartographer
- Environmental Consultant
- Additional Programs
- General Studies (for flexibility)
- Workforce Development Courses
University of Maryland College Park
College Park, MD
Department of Geographical Sciences
Within the Geography Department at the University of Maryland College Park students can pursue a Bachelor of Science in Geographical Sciences with three specializations:
- General Geographical Sciences
- Geospatial Data Science
- Computational Earth Observation Science.
These specializations provide the knowledge and skills necessary to analyze geographic data, utilize Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and interpret satellite observations to solve pressing issues like climate change, urban growth, and resource management.
Specialized Minors and Accelerated Pathways
In addition to the bachelor’s programs, students can enhance their expertise through minors in Geographic Information Science and Remote Sensing of Environmental Change, which focus on advanced geospatial analysis and environmental monitoring.
The department also offers a Five-Year BS/MS Program, allowing exceptional undergraduates to fast-track their education and earn a master’s degree. For those interested in education, the Secondary Education Double Major prepares students to teach geography in grades 7-12.
Comprehensive Curriculum
The curriculum integrates physical and human geography with technical training in GIS, remote sensing, and programming. Students gain proficiency in spatial data analysis, machine learning, and satellite image processing.
Core learning outcomes include geographic theory, research methodologies, and communication skills, preparing students for careers in academia, the private sector, government agencies, or advanced studies.
Career Opportunities
Graduates from the program have secured roles at leading organizations, including Esri, the U.S. Census Bureau, Google, and the National Park Service.
Many alumni have also founded businesses in geospatial technologies. The department’s emphasis on practical skills and cutting-edge tools ensures students are competitive in fields like environmental monitoring, disaster response, and urban planning.
Hands-On Learning
The department promotes experiential learning through internships, research projects, and fieldwork.
Students can work with advanced technologies like machine learning and deep learning to analyze large-scale geospatial datasets, supporting applications such as climate monitoring, crop management, and wildfire prevention.
Commitment to Addressing Global Challenges
The University of Maryland Geography Department prepares students to tackle critical issues such as climate change, food security, biodiversity loss, and urban development.
Through its innovative programs and research opportunities, the department cultivates the next generation of professionals committed to building a sustainable and equitable world.
Towson University
Towson, MD
https://www.towson.edu/cla/departments/geography/
Department of Geography & Environmental Planning
Towson University’s Geography and Environmental Planning program offers students a comprehensive understanding of the interactions between human activity and the environment.
The program includes undergraduate and graduate degree options, such as the Bachelor of Arts and Science in Geography, and an accelerated B.S./M.A. in Geography and Environmental Planning, which allows students to fast-track their graduate education.
Curriculum and Areas of Emphasis
The curriculum blends human geography, physical geography, and environmental planning, with specialized tracks in geospatial technologies, climate studies, and urban planning.
Students gain expertise in geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, and cartography, preparing them for careers in sectors such as government, urban planning, environmental consulting, and non-profit organizations.
The program includes fieldwork opportunities, internships, and study abroad options, ensuring students receive hands-on experience.
Accreditation and Admission Requirements
The program is fully accredited and offers a well-rounded education in geography and environmental planning.
To be admitted to the undergraduate program, students need to meet general university requirements and complete foundational courses in physical geography, human geography, and geospatial technologies.
The accelerated B.S./M.A. program provides a seamless path to graduate education, saving time and money.
Career Outcomes and Opportunities
Graduates of Towson’s Geography and Environmental Planning program have access to a wide range of career opportunities, from GIS analysts to urban planners.
The program’s interdisciplinary approach and focus on technology-driven solutions ensure that students are well-prepared for the challenges of sustainability, environmental conservation, and global development.
Salisbury University
Department of Geography and Geosciences
Salisbury, MD
https://www.salisbury.edu/academic-offices/science-and-technology/geography-and-geosciences
The Geography and Geosciences Department at Salisbury University offers a dynamic academic environment designed to prepare students for careers in geography, earth sciences, and related fields.
The department provides both undergraduate and graduate degree options, including specialized tracks in areas such as Geographic Information Science (GIS), meteorology, climatology, and physical geography.
Accreditations and Outcomes
Salisbury University’s geography and geosciences programs are accredited and known for their high standards of education.
The programs emphasize real-world learning through internships, research projects, and fieldwork, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for post-graduate employment or advanced study. Graduates often find positions in government agencies, private firms, non-profit organizations, and academia.
Curriculum and Tracks
Students can choose from a variety of tracks within the Geography and Earth Science programs. These include general geography, GIS, human geography, meteorology, climatology, and physical geography.
The curriculum blends theory with hands-on practice, offering courses in spatial analysis, remote sensing, environmental science, and map-making.
Students also engage in extensive fieldwork, including class trips and research projects.
Other Programs and Specializations
The department also offers minors in Geography, GIS, and Earth Science, as well as an accelerated B.S./M.A. program in Geography and Environmental Planning, allowing students to complete both degrees in less time.
These programs are designed to give students a flexible, comprehensive education in geography and geosciences.
Career Opportunities
The department’s strong ties to industry ensure that students have access to internships and job opportunities in fields such as urban planning, environmental consulting, and geospatial technologies.
Many alumni have gone on to work for prestigious organizations like the CIA, NASA, and the Environmental Protection Agency, while others pursue advanced degrees in top graduate schools.
Frostburg State University
Frostburg, MD
https://www.frostburg.edu/academics/colleges-and-departments/geography/
Department of Geography
Frostburg State University (FSU) offers a comprehensive set of Geography, Earth Sciences, and Environmental Science programs that prepare students for dynamic careers in a variety of fields.
The Department of Geography provides three Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degrees: Geography, Earth Sciences, and Environmental Science, with additional minors and concentrations available to tailor the degree to specific career goals.
The department is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including a geochemistry lab, unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and remote sensing laboratory, and the Western Maryland Regional GIS Center, supporting both academic and hands-on learning.
Program Duration and Curriculum
The B.S. Geography program typically spans four years and offers flexibility with multiple concentrations. Students can specialize in the following areas:
- Global Systems Analysis
- Mapping Science
- Climate System Science
The program focuses on providing students with a solid foundation in human-environment interactions, GIS, and geospatial technologies, while also allowing them to gain experience through fieldwork and internships. Students can choose between general geography or specialized tracks, with advanced courses in areas like:
- Economic Geography
- Urban Geography
- Physical Geography
Prerequisites and Requirements
Students pursuing a B.S. in Geography at FSU must complete foundational courses in:
- Physical Geography
- Human Geography
- Geospatial Technologies (GIS)
Additional requirements include advanced courses in:
- Geographic Techniques
- Regional Geography
- Human-Earth Relationships
Elective courses in areas like Environmental Planning and Global Climate Change allow for further specialization. Students are encouraged to complete internships to enhance their skills and career prospects.
Hands-on Learning and Facilities
FSU’s Geography Department emphasizes experiential learning, with students gaining practical experience through fieldwork at local environmental sites and projects involving the use of cutting-edge technologies like GIS and remote sensing. Students benefit from:
- Western Maryland Regional GIS Center for real-world GIS applications
- Fieldwork in local environmental sites
- Opportunities to work with unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and remote sensing technologies
- Direct exchange program with Northumbria University in Newcastle, England
Career Outcomes and Alumni
Graduates of FSU’s Geography program are well-prepared for careers in various sectors, including:
- Environmental Science
- Urban Planning
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- Conservation
Alumni have gone on to work for organizations such as:
- National Park Service
- NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
- U.S. Geological Survey
The department’s strong alumni network helps students connect with potential employers, ensuring solid job prospects after graduation.
Additional Programs and Minors
FSU offers a range of related programs and minors to complement the Geography major, including:
- Environmental Science
- Earth Sciences
- Sustainability Studies
Students can also pursue minors in:
- Climate Science
- Geospatial Science
- Forestry
These minors allow students to further customize their academic journey to align with specific interests and professional aspirations.
Conclusion
Frostburg State University’s Geography and Environmental Science programs provide students with a well-rounded education that combines classroom learning, fieldwork, and hands-on technology training. With a strong emphasis on GIS, environmental analysis, and real-world experience, the department equips graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in today’s rapidly evolving job market. The flexibility of the programs, combined with opportunities for internships, research, and international study, makes FSU an excellent choice for students looking to make a meaningful impact in the world.
Montgomery College
Germantown, Rockville MD
https://www.montgomerycollege.edu/academics/programs/applied-geography/index.html
Applied Geography Department
Montgomery College (MC) offers an Applied Geography program designed for students interested in careers related to geography, cartography, geographic information systems (GIS), and geographic education. The program provides a hands-on education through fieldwork, mapping projects, and access to advanced facilities, such as the Cartography and Geographic Information System Lab, one of the largest in the Washington metropolitan area.
Degree and Certificate Options
The Applied Geography program offers a variety of options tailored to different career paths. Students can pursue:
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Applied Geography
- Cartography/GIS Certificate
- Geographic Education Certificate
These options provide specialized training in geography, GIS, map-making, and geographic education, making graduates highly competitive in the job market.
Program Curriculum
The AAS degree in Applied Geography is designed to cover several key disciplines:
- Geography: Study of places and the environments where people live.
- Cartography: The science and art of map construction.
- Geographic Education: Training for teachers or prospective teachers in geographic concepts and methodologies.
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS): Use of technology to analyze spatial information and solve geographical problems.
Core Coursework Includes:
- Introduction to Geography
- Introduction to Cartography
- Geographic Imagery Interpretation
- Geographic Information Systems
- Advanced GIS Techniques
Program Outcomes
Upon completing the Applied Geography AAS program, students will be able to:
- Interpret maps and use various coordinate systems.
- Conduct research and analyze geographic data.
- Apply GIS technologies to solve spatial problems.
- Present geographic findings in written and oral formats.
Transfer Opportunities
Montgomery College has established transfer agreements with several four-year institutions, providing students with a seamless transition to pursue further education in geography, GIS, urban planning, and related fields.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the Applied Geography program are well-equipped for various careers, including:
- GIS Specialist
- Cartographer
- Urban Planner
- Geospatial Analyst
- Environmental Consultant
The average salary for geographers in Montgomery County is approximately $91,340, with top positions offering even higher salaries.
Program Prerequisites and Requirements
To enroll in the Applied Geography program, students should have:
- A high school diploma or equivalent.
- Basic proficiency in math and science (required for GIS and cartography courses).
Advisors are available to help students choose courses and ensure they meet the program’s graduation requirements.
Fieldwork and Hands-On Learning
A key feature of the program is its emphasis on real-world experience:
- Field-based projects in local environmental sites.
- Access to advanced tools like ArcGIS, Adobe Suite, and other mapping software.
- Internship opportunities for students to apply classroom knowledge in professional settings.
Related Programs
Montgomery College offers several related programs to complement the Applied Geography degree:
- General Studies (for those seeking flexibility before specializing in geography).
- Workforce Development and Continuing Education courses to upgrade skills in GIS, cartography, and geography-related fields.
Additional Opportunities
Students in the Applied Geography program have the opportunity to join Gamma Theta Upsilon (GTU), the international geography honor society. GTU provides networking opportunities, access to scholarships, and involvement in projects that support geographic knowledge.
Conclusion
Montgomery College’s Applied Geography program offers a comprehensive education in geography, cartography, GIS, and geographic education, preparing students for careers in both the private and public sectors. The program’s strong focus on hands-on learning, advanced technology, and career preparation makes it a valuable option for students seeking to enter this dynamic field. Whether pursuing an AAS degree or certificates, students gain the knowledge and skills necessary for success in the rapidly evolving world of geography.