New Mexico offers diverse geography programs across multiple institutions, providing students with robust educational pathways in geography, environmental studies, and geospatial technology. These programs span from community colleges to universities, each offering unique opportunities for hands-on learning, research, and career preparation.
Below, explore the key features of geography programs at top New Mexico schools, including undergraduate and graduate offerings, research centers, and career support services.
- University of New Mexico
- New Mexico State University
- Central New Mexico Community College
- San Juan College
- Navajo Technical University
- Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute (SIPI)
University of New Mexico
Albuquerque, NM
https://geography.unm.edu/
The Department of Geography and Environmental Studies (GES) at the University of New Mexico focuses on understanding and addressing human-environment interactions, spatial analysis, and environmental challenges. Located in Albuquerque, NM, the department emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches to geography, blending natural and social sciences to tackle critical issues such as climate change, resource management, and spatial inequality. GES offers a comprehensive education through its varied programs, fieldwork opportunities, and community engagement initiatives.
Undergraduate Programs and Specializations
GES offers a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Geography, allowing students to select from different concentrations based on their interests. The curriculum includes:
- Human Geography: Exploring the social and cultural dimensions of geography.
- Physical Geography: Studying natural landscapes, ecosystems, and environmental processes.
- Geographic Information Science (GIS): Focusing on spatial data analysis, cartography, and remote sensing.
Students gain practical experience through coursework, field research, and the use of advanced GIS and remote sensing technology, preparing them for various professional roles.
Graduate Programs and Research Opportunities
The department offers a Master of Science (M.S.) in Geography and Environmental Studies and supports Ph.D. students through affiliated programs. Graduate students can specialize in areas such as environmental management, urban planning, and geospatial analysis.
The program emphasizes research, with students encouraged to engage in projects related to climate adaptation, water resources, and social equity. Faculty research is diverse and covers topics like wildfire modeling, urban resilience, and hydrological processes, providing numerous opportunities for graduate students to collaborate on impactful research.
Research Centers and Facilities
GES houses the Spatial Applications and Research Center (SPARC), which supports research and education in GIS, remote sensing, and spatial analysis.
SPARC provides students and faculty with access to state-of-the-art tools and resources to conduct spatial research, furthering UNM’s commitment to addressing regional and global environmental issues.
New Mexico State University
Las Cruces, NM
The Department of Geography at New Mexico State University (NMSU) offers a curriculum that integrates both physical and human geography, focusing on environmental issues, spatial analysis, and geospatial technologies.
Located in Las Cruces, NM, the department combines traditional classroom learning with fieldwork and community engagement, preparing students for careers in environmental management, urban planning, and GIS. The program emphasizes research, problem-solving, and the application of geography to regional and global challenges.
Undergraduate Programs and Areas of Emphasis
NMSU offers a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Geography, with courses that cover a wide range of topics in physical and human geography. Areas of emphasis within the undergraduate program include:
- Environmental Geography: Studying ecosystems, natural resources, and conservation.
- Geographic Information Science (GIS): Focused on spatial data analysis, mapping, and remote sensing.
- Human-Environment Interaction: Examining the relationships between human societies and the environment.
The program prepares students with a solid foundation in geographic principles, combined with hands-on experience using GIS tools and conducting environmental assessments.
Graduate Programs and Research Opportunities
The department offers a Master of Applied Geography (M.A.G.) degree, focusing on advanced applications of geographic knowledge and techniques. Graduate students at NMSU engage in research in areas such as water resource management, land use planning, and hazard mitigation.
Faculty expertise includes climate science, urban geography, and sustainable development, allowing students to participate in projects that address pressing environmental and societal issues.
The program provides access to state-of-the-art GIS labs and opportunities for students to work on applied research with local and regional agencies.
Research Centers and Facilities
NMSU’s Department of Geography houses specialized labs and resources for GIS and remote sensing, supporting research in geospatial technologies and environmental analysis. These facilities enable students and faculty to conduct cutting-edge research that has both local and broader impacts. Collaborations with organizations and agencies in the Southwest offer students additional research and internship opportunities.
Central New Mexico Community College
Albuquerque, NM
https://www.cnm.edu/programs/programs-a-z/geography
The Geography Program at Central New Mexico Community College (CNM) provides foundational education in geographic principles, environmental science, and geospatial technology. Located in Albuquerque, NM, the program is designed to introduce students to the study of both physical and human geography, preparing them for further studies in geography or environmental science at a four-year institution.
Program Structure and Coursework
The geography program at CNM offers courses that cover key areas in geography, focusing on human-environment interaction, spatial data analysis, and the natural landscape. Courses include:
- Introduction to Geography: Covers basic principles of geography, including cultural, economic, and environmental aspects.
- Physical Geography: Examines earth systems, landforms, climate, and ecosystems.
- Geospatial Technology and GIS: Provides hands-on experience with mapping and spatial analysis tools. This curriculum equips students with skills in spatial reasoning and environmental awareness, valuable for diverse fields like urban planning, environmental management, and resource conservation.
Transfer and Career Pathways
CNM’s Geography Program is structured to facilitate seamless transfer to four-year institutions for students wishing to pursue a bachelor’s degree in geography or a related field.
Graduates are prepared to continue their studies in areas such as urban planning, environmental science, or geographic information science (GIS). Additionally, the skills acquired can be applied in entry-level positions within environmental consulting, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations focused on sustainability and conservation.
Community Engagement and Resources
CNM’s geography program emphasizes community engagement and local environmental awareness, allowing students to apply their knowledge to real-world issues. Students benefit from the college’s commitment to hands-on learning and access to resources such as GIS software, which supports their academic growth and career preparation.
San Juan College
Farmington, NM
https://www.sanjuancollege.edu/education-training/programs/geo-info-systems-aas/
The Geographic Information Systems (GIS) program at San Juan College offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree designed for students looking to enter the growing geospatial industry.
This program, located in Farmington, NM, focuses on teaching applied skills in spatial data collection, mapping, and analysis. It prepares students for careers in diverse fields such as environmental management, urban planning, and public safety.
Why Earn a GIS Technology Degree at San Juan College?
San Juan College’s GIS program offers unique advantages for students pursuing careers in geospatial technology. With a focus on practical, hands-on training, the program equips students with skills that meet current industry demands.
Students benefit from experienced faculty, access to cutting-edge GIS software, and opportunities for real-world application of their skills through projects and partnerships. The college’s commitment to affordable education and personalized instruction also ensures that students receive quality training that is accessible and career-oriented.
Core Curriculum and Skill Development
The program’s curriculum covers essential aspects of GIS and spatial analysis, including:
- Introduction to GIS: Fundamentals of spatial data, cartography, and data visualization.
- Remote Sensing: Techniques for capturing geospatial data from satellites and aerial images.
- Database Management: Skills in managing and analyzing geospatial databases.
- Advanced GIS Applications: Specialized applications in fields like natural resource management, environmental planning, and public health.
These courses provide a solid foundation in GIS technologies and help students develop the technical and analytical skills needed in professional geospatial roles.
Hands-On Experience and Resources
San Juan College offers students access to state-of-the-art GIS software and tools, enabling them to gain hands-on experience in spatial analysis and cartography. The program’s emphasis on applied learning is strengthened through internships and collaborations with local organizations, providing students with valuable experience that aligns with professional GIS tasks.
Navajo Technical University
Crownpoint, NM
The Geographic Information Technology (GIT) program at Navajo Technical University (NTU) offers students an Associate of Applied Science degree, preparing them for careers in GIS, cartography, and spatial data analysis.
This program provides a solid foundation in GIS technologies, remote sensing, and geospatial data management. It emphasizes practical learning through hands-on experience and real-world applications, specifically focused on issues impacting the Navajo Nation and indigenous communities.
Key Features
- GIS & Remote Sensing: Students gain proficiency in industry-standard GIS software and techniques used for spatial data collection, analysis, and visualization.
- Cultural Relevance: The curriculum incorporates projects and research opportunities that are relevant to the land, environment, and communities of the Navajo Nation.
- Technology Integration: Students will be exposed to the latest geospatial technologies, enabling them to manage and analyze complex data for a variety of applications such as urban planning, resource management, and environmental protection.
Estimated Cost of Attendance
- Tuition & Fees: $2,402
- Room & Board: $6,920
- Books & Supplies: $2,600
- Transportation: $1,600
- Personal/Miscellaneous: $2,500
Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute (SIPI)
Albuquerque, New Mexico
https://www.sipi.edu/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=3772475&type=d&pREC_ID=2444517
The Geospatial Information Technology (GIT) program at SIPI offers comprehensive education in geospatial technologies, integrating geography, mathematics, and computer science. Students gain practical skills in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Global Positioning Systems (GPS), and remote sensing, applicable across various fields such as natural resources, renewable energy, land management, business, and public health.
Academic Programs
Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Geospatial Information Technology: This degree prepares students for entry-level positions in the geospatial industry, emphasizing practical applications and foundational principles.
The program can be completed within five trimesters and includes coursework in mapping, cartography, GIS, GPS, and remote sensing technologies.
Certificate of Completion in Geospatial Information Technology: Designed for professionals or students in fields utilizing geospatial technologies, this certificate program provides educational credits applicable toward Geospatial Information Systems Professional (GISP) certification.
The curriculum covers mapping principles, GIS and GPS software, data collection, and analytical components, with completion achievable in three trimesters.
Facilities and Resources
SIPI’s Science and Technology building houses state-of-the-art computer facilities, laboratories, and classrooms, offering an excellent teaching and learning environment for GIT students. Students have access to the latest software and equipment, facilitating hands-on experience in geospatial technologies.
Faculty and Support
The GIT program is supported by experienced faculty dedicated to student success. Students receive guidance and mentorship throughout their academic journey, ensuring they acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the geospatial field.