North Carolina Geography Degree Programs

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC

Website: UNC Geography Major (BA)

The Department of Geography at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers a Bachelor of Arts in Geography. This program focuses on the interactions between people, environments, and places, combining insights from social and natural sciences.

Students can tailor their learning by focusing on specific pathways like urban geography, health geography, climate studies, or social and cultural geography.

Curriculum

The curriculum equips students with qualitative and quantitative research methods, spatial analysis skills, GIS (Geographic Information Systems), remote sensing, and modeling tools.

The program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning through the study of human geography, physical geography, and global issues.

Key courses include:

  • “The Blue Planet
  • “World Regional Geography
  • Geographies of Globalization
  • Introduction to Geographic Information
  • Research Methods in Geography.”

Students must also complete a capstone seminar and choose electives, with a minimum of two courses at the 400 level or higher.

Career Preparation

Graduates are well-prepared for careers in urban and regional planning, resource management, environmental regulation, health policy, and economic development.

The department offers internships, independent studies, research opportunities, and study abroad programs. An honors track is available for students seeking advanced academic challenges.

North Carolina State University

Raleigh, NC

Website: NCSU Geography Course Descriptions

The Geography (GEO) program at North Carolina State University offers a comprehensive curriculum that explores the spatial aspects of human and environmental systems.

The courses are designed to provide students with a deep understanding of geographic principles, cultural dynamics, and the application of geographic information systems (GIS).

Curriculum

Core Courses

  • GEO 200: Principles of Geography
    This foundational course introduces students to the scope of geography as an academic field, emphasizing mastery of geographic tools such as maps and globes, and includes a regional study of the contemporary world.
  • GEO 220/SOC 220: Cultural Geography
    This course investigates global cultural diversity by examining spatial patterns of population, language, religion, material and non-material culture, technology, livelihoods, communities, settlements, and political organization.

Specialized Courses

  • GEO 295: Special Topics in Geography
    This course offers material not typically available in regular offerings, allowing for exploration of new or experimental topics in geography.

Interdisciplinary Integration

The program integrates courses from related disciplines, such as:

  • GIS 205: Spatial Thinking with GIS
    This course introduces spatial thinking and its relation to geospatial science and GIS, teaching students to tell stories through maps using geographic information and geospatial data analysis.
  • GIS 280: Introduction to GIS
    This course provides an overview of GIS operations and functions, emphasizing geographic information management and analysis methods.

Experiential Learning

Students are encouraged to engage in independent learning and practical experiences through laboratory sessions and optional help sessions, fostering hands-on proficiency in geographic tools and methodologies.

Career Preparation

The Geography program equips students with analytical and technical skills applicable in various fields, including urban planning, environmental management, cultural resource management, and geospatial analysis.

University of North Carolina at Charlotte


Charlotte, North Carolina

Website: Department of Earth, Environmental, and Geographical Sciences

The Department of Earth, Environmental, and Geographical Sciences (EEGS) at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte is dedicated to advancing knowledge of the Earth’s physical, natural, and human systems through interdisciplinary research, teaching, and community engagement.

Academic Programs

EEGS offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs:

Undergraduate Degrees:

  • Geography (B.A. and B.S.): Focuses on human-environment interactions, urban studies, and geospatial technologies.
  • Earth and Environmental Sciences (B.S.): Emphasizes atmospheric, environmental, and hydrologic sciences.
  • Geology (B.S.): Concentrates on Earth’s materials, processes, and history.
  • Meteorology (B.S.): Studies atmospheric phenomena and weather forecasting.

Graduate Degrees:

  • Master of Arts in Geography: Develops expertise in geographic research methods, urban planning, and GIS.
  • Master of Science in Earth Sciences: Prepares students for advanced research in geology, hydrology, and atmospheric science.
  • Ph.D. in Geography: Focuses on urban and regional analysis, earth and environmental systems, and GIScience.

Research and Facilities

The department is actively involved in multidisciplinary research areas, including urban ecology, climate change, environmental justice, and geospatial analytics. State-of-the-art facilities support this research, such as the Hydrology and Biogeochemistry Lab, Paleoecology Lab, and GIScience laboratories.

Community Engagement

EEGS emphasizes community engagement through initiatives like the Charlotte Action Research Project (CHARP), which collaborates with local communities to address urban challenges.

Faculty Expertise

The department boasts a diverse faculty with expertise spanning physical, natural, and social sciences, fostering a rich interdisciplinary learning environment.

University of North Carolina Wilmington

Wilmington, North Carolina

Website: Geography & Geospatial Sciences, B.A.

The University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) offers a Bachelor of Arts in Geography and Geospatial Sciences through its Department of Earth and Ocean Sciences.

This program provides a comprehensive education in both physical and human geography, emphasizing the application of geospatial technologies to address complex environmental and societal challenges.

Program Highlights

Flexible Curriculum: The program allows students to tailor their studies to align with personal educational goals and career aspirations, including pathways in physical geography, human geography, planning, or applied geography.

Applied Learning Opportunities: Students engage in hands-on experiences with mapping technology, computer mapping techniques, and spatial data analysis to solve problems ranging from local to global scales.

Internships: The program facilitates internships with government, nonprofit, and private organizations across the U.S., providing practical experience in areas such as geospatial technologies, coastal resource assessment, urban planning, weather analysis, and environmental conservation.

Core Courses

The curriculum includes foundational courses such as:

  • GGY 101: Modern World Geography
  • GGY 130: Geosystems
  • GGY 215: The DigitalGlobe
  • GGY 220: Cartography and Data Visualization
  • GGY 281: Introduction to Geographic Information Systems
  • GGY 322: Introduction to Remote Sensing
  • GGY 421: Spatial Programming
  • GGY 424: Advanced GIS
  • GGY 426: Environmental GIS
  • GGY 428: Advanced Remote Sensing
  • GGY 429: Aerial Drone Applications

These courses equip students with essential skills in data visualization, GIS, remote sensing, and spatial analysis.

Career Preparation

Graduates are well-prepared for careers in environmental consulting, urban and regional planning, resource management, geospatial analysis, and various roles within government and nonprofit organizations.

The program’s emphasis on applied learning and internships ensures that students gain practical experience and professional connections.

Faculty Expertise

The department’s faculty are engaged in diverse research areas, including coastal processes, climate change, human-environment interactions, and geospatial technologies, providing students with opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research projects. 

East Carolina University

Greenville, North Carolina

Website: Department of Geography, Planning, and Environment

The Department of Geography, Planning, and Environment at East Carolina University (ECU) offers a comprehensive educational experience through its five undergraduate degrees and two master’s programs. The undergraduate degrees include Geography, Community and Regional Planning, Applied Atmospheric Science, Geographic Information Science and Technology, and Multidisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Environmental Studies. The master’s programs are in Geography and Planning & Development.

Academic Programs

Undergraduate Degrees:

Geography: Focuses on the study of spatial relationships and processes that shape human and natural environments.

Community and Regional Planning: Prepares students for careers in planning and development, emphasizing sustainable and equitable community growth.

Applied Atmospheric Science: Offers in-depth knowledge of weather and climate systems, preparing students for careers in meteorology and related fields.

Geographic Information Science and Technology: Equips students with skills in geospatial technologies, including GIS, remote sensing, and spatial analysis.

Multidisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Environmental Studies: Provides an interdisciplinary approach to environmental issues, integrating perspectives from natural and social sciences.

Master’s Degrees

M.S. in Geography: Offers a setting for students to work closely with faculty, students, and the community to develop skills and a global perspective to help build a dynamic career solving social and environmental issues.

M.S. in Planning and Development: Focuses on foundational knowledge and skills to prepare students looking to enter the planning field and advance their careers.

Research and Faculty

The department’s faculty are dedicated to student success and contribute valuable research in areas such as climate science, coastal resilience, global environmental justice, water resource management, disaster planning, and health disparities.

Student Opportunities

Students have opportunities for hands-on experiences that prepare them for success in various scientific, environmental, and technological career paths. Many are actively involved in student organizations, enhancing their educational experience and professional development.

Western Carolina University

Cullowhee, North Carolina

Website: Geography Minor Program

Western Carolina University offers a Geography minor through its Geosciences and Natural Resources Department.

This program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of spatial patterns and processes related to Earth’s structure, human populations, and their interactions.

The curriculum encompasses both physical and human geography, enhancing perspectives across various fields, including natural sciences, environmental studies, business, politics, health, and education.

Program Structure

The Geography minor requires the completion of 18 credit hours of GEOG courses.

Students have the flexibility to select courses from human geography, physical geography, or geospatial techniques, tailoring their studies to align with personal interests and career goals.

Core Learning Areas

  • Human Geography: Explores patterns and systems of human activity, including cultural, political, economic, and environmental issues.
  • Physical Geography: Focuses on natural features and processes, such as climate and weather patterns.
  • Geospatial Techniques: Introduces students to technologies like Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing, essential for spatial analysis.

Career Applications

Students minoring in Geography develop the ability to apply geographic reasoning to a wide array of issues, making them valuable assets in the workforce. The program equips graduates with skills to examine problems from multiple perspectives and a spatial point of view, applicable in sectors such as environmental management, urban planning, and policy development.

Duke University

Durham, North Carolina

Website: Earth & Climate Sciences Undergraduate Program

The Earth and Climate Sciences (ECS) undergraduate program at Duke University’s Nicholas School of the Environment offers students an in-depth understanding of Earth’s dynamic systems, including the solid earth, atmosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere.

The program emphasizes the interconnectedness of these systems and the significant role humans play in environmental sustainability.

Program Highlights

Degree Options: Students can pursue either a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) or a Bachelor of Arts (A.B.) in Earth and Climate Sciences. The B.S. degree is tailored for those aiming for careers or advanced studies in earth and climate sciences or related fields, while the A.B. degree is designed for students interested in applying scientific knowledge to areas such as policy, business, law, or medicine.

Curriculum Focus: The ECS curriculum integrates coursework, laboratory work, and field studies to provide a comprehensive understanding of earth and climate science concepts and practices. Students develop skills in observation, data collection, analysis, and interpretation, which are essential for studying earth and climate sciences.

Experiential Learning: The program places a strong emphasis on experiential learning, encouraging students to engage in independent research projects that may lead to Graduation with Distinction. This hands-on approach allows students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world environmental challenges.

Career Preparation

Graduates of the ECS program are well-equipped for careers in environmental stewardship, conservation of biodiversity, and the sustainable and equitable use of natural resources.

The interdisciplinary training prepares students for roles in research, policy development, environmental consulting, and various positions within governmental and non-governmental organizations.

Appalachian State University

Boone, North Carolina

Website: Geography (BS) – General Geography

Appalachian State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Geography with a General Geography concentration, providing a comprehensive understanding of the earth’s landscapes, peoples, places, and environments.

This program bridges the social and natural sciences, equipping students with the skills to analyze spatial patterns and human-environment interactions.

Program Highlights

Curriculum Structure: The program emphasizes a liberal arts approach, requiring 15 hours of ancillary courses to complete a concentration of the student’s choosing. Unlike some geography programs, this degree does not mandate a foreign language requirement.

Career Readiness: Graduates are well-prepared for careers in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and planning, with over 90% securing employment in their fields within six months of graduation. Employers include the U.S. Government, State of North Carolina, The Nature Conservancy, National Geographic Society, and local governments throughout North Carolina.

Professional Development: All majors graduate with a resume, cover letter, and professional portfolio website to present to potential employers or graduate schools. Additionally, students can enhance their marketability by completing the undergraduate Certificate in Geographic Information Systems with just four additional courses.

Experiential Learning

The program encourages practical experience through internships, research projects, and fieldwork, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.

Many students choose to double major by pairing this degree with Community and Regional Planning, further broadening their expertise and career prospects.

Faculty Expertise

The Department of Geography and Planning boasts a diverse faculty specializing in climate science, health geography, community and regional planning, sustainable and environmental planning, spatial patterns in human geography and social justice, and Geographic Information Science (GIS).

This expertise provides students with solutions-based critical thinking skills and a comprehensive understanding of contemporary geographic issues.

North Carolina Central University

Durham, North Carolina

Website: Department of Environmental, Earth and Geospatial Sciences

The Department of Environmental, Earth and Geospatial Sciences (DEEGS) at North Carolina Central University (NCCU) is dedicated to promoting intellectual, professional, and personal excellence through high-quality instruction, research, and service in environmental, earth, and geospatial sciences.

The department offers both Bachelor of Science (B.S.) and Master of Science (M.S.) degrees, with options for traditional and fully online programs.

Academic Programs

  • B.S. in Environmental and Geographic Sciences: This 120-credit program provides a broad understanding of environmental, earth, and geospatial sciences, focusing on human-earth interactions. The curriculum is designed to develop communication, critical thinking, and technical skills.
  • M.S. in Environmental, Earth, and Geospatial Sciences: A 30-credit program aimed at developing master’s-level competence in techniques used to solve environmental and geoscience problems. Courses are offered asynchronously online, with options to join classes synchronously.

Special Programs

  • Accelerated Bachelor to Master’s (ABM) Track: Allows students to expedite their education by earning both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in a shortened time frame.
  • Geospatial Intelligence (GEOINT) Certificate: Recognized as the 17th nationally accredited program by the U.S. Geospatial Intelligence Foundation, this certificate enhances expertise in geospatial intelligence.
  • Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) Certificate Program: DEEGS is among the few Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) offering a UAS certificate, preparing students for careers in drone technology and applications.

Research and Faculty

The department boasts a strong record of interdisciplinary research, with faculty actively engaged in projects funded by agencies such as NASA, NSF, DOD, USDA, and EPA. Research areas include geospatial science, data science, remote sensing, social geography, environmental science, environmental health, geohazards, and climatology.

Student Opportunities

Students have presented research at conferences like the North Carolina ArcGIS User Group (NCAUG) Meeting, the HBCU Meeting on Climate Change, the North Carolina Geography Conference, the American Society for Photogrammetry, and the GEOINT Symposium. Travel to these meetings is supported by grants and department funding.

Career Prospects

DEEGS is a career-focused department, striving to place students in jobs aligned with their interests. Graduates have secured positions in the corporate sector, local and federal government, and nonprofit organizations, reflecting the department’s commitment to student success.