Ohio Geography Degree Programs

Ohio offers a variety of geography programs for prospective students interested in understanding the relationship between the environment and human activity.

Whether you are looking for a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or specialized certificate, universities like Miami University, University of Cincinnati, and Kent State University provide diverse curriculum options and hands-on experiences, ranging from GIS and urban planning to environmental sustainability.

Miami University

Oxford, Ohio
Website: Miami University Geography Department

Miami University’s Department of Geography emphasizes the integration of social and environmental sciences through geospatial analysis. The department aims to address complex global challenges by equipping students with advanced geographical knowledge and practical skills.

Curriculum

The curriculum offers degrees like BA in Geography, BA in Urban and Regional Planning, and a Master’s in Geography, focusing on sustainable development. Additionally, a certificate in Geographic Information Science (GIS) is available.

Educational Offerings

Students can pursue various degrees and certificates, including BAs in Urban and Regional Planning, and Geography and Sustainable Development, along with a Geographic Information Science Certificate and a combined BA/MA program.

Research and Career Opportunities

The department is involved in significant research concerning urban sustainability, climate change, and spatial analysis. This research prepares students for careers in governmental and non-governmental organizations, consulting, and academia.

Experiential Learning

Students benefit from hands-on field experiences, internships, and project-based learning, ensuring that they gain practical insights and skills applicable to real-world scenarios.

University of Cincinnati

Cincinnati, Ohio
Website: Geography Department

The Geography Department at the University of Cincinnati offers comprehensive programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. The department emphasizes Geographic Information Sciences and features advanced research labs like the Space Informatics Lab and the Health Geography and Disease Modeling Laboratory.

Undergraduate Programs

Students can major or minor in Geography, with coursework that covers physical and human geography, spatial analysis, and environmental studies. The department also promotes real-world experience through field trips and student groups like the GeoCats.

Graduate Programs

The department offers both Masters and Ph.D. programs, focusing on fostering advanced research skills in areas like spatial informatics and environmental sensor networks. Graduate students benefit from hands-on experience in several dedicated research facilities.

Faculty and Research

The faculty consists of renowned scholars with diverse expertise across the geographical sciences. Research centers within the department provide students and faculty with the resources for cutting-edge research in areas like crime mapping and geospatial analysis.

Community and Outreach

The department maintains strong ties with alumni and encourages current students to engage with the broader geographical community through colloquia and department-sponsored events.

Contributions and Achievements

Notable contributions include advancements in GIS technology, urban and health geography, as well as significant publications in peer-reviewed journals. The department frequently hosts events to disseminate research findings and foster professional development.

University of Toledo

Toledo, Ohio
Website: Department of Geography and Planning

The Department of Geography and Planning at the University of Toledo offers undergraduate and graduate programs focused on blending academic theory with practical application. The department is committed to fostering a comprehensive understanding of the spatial dimensions of human behavior and the physical environment.

Academic Programs

  • Undergraduate: The B.A. program in Geography and Planning includes professional work experiences integrated with a robust academic curriculum.
  • Graduate: The graduate offerings include an M.A. in Geography, a Ph.D. in Spatially Integrated Social Sciences, and graduate certificates in GIS, Applied Geographics, and Urban and Regional Planning.

Research and Faculty

The faculty are deeply involved in various research projects that contribute to academic and practical knowledge in geography and planning fields. The department is recognized for its teaching and research excellence.

Student Involvement and Achievements

Approximately 55 students across all programs actively participate in educational and research activities. The primary student organization is the Geography and Planning Club, which is linked to the Gamma Theta Upsilon honor society. The department also hosts events and provides opportunities for students to engage in the wider geographical community.

Special Programs and Facilities

The department boasts specialized facilities and programs that support advanced research and student learning, including the Spatially Integrated Social Sciences Program and access to significant research centers like the UT Lake Erie Center and the UT Urban Affairs Center.

Events and Community Engagement

Faculty and students frequently participate in major conferences and community-engaged projects, positioning the University of Toledo as a leader in geographical education and civic planning.

Kent State University

Kent, Ohio
Website: Department of Geography

Kent State University’s Department of Geography offers BA, MS, and PhD degrees in Geography, a BA in Environmental Studies, and a fully online Master of GIS.

Academic Programs

  • Undergraduate: Offers majors in Geography and Environmental Studies, and minors in GIS, Climate Change, and Urban Studies.
  • Graduate: Includes MS and PhD programs in Geography and various GIS certifications.

Faculty and Research

The department emphasizes research promoting social and environmental change, with expertise spanning physical, urban, and social justice geographies. Faculty are involved in global and local projects, employing cutting-edge geospatial technologies.

Student Opportunities

Experiential learning is key, with community projects, study-away programs, and participation in field-based research. Students are encouraged to engage actively in departmental research.

Community Engagement and Events

The department is actively involved in community outreach and hosts a colloquium series, enriching both academic and local communities.

The University of Akron

Akron, Ohio
Website: Department of Geosciences

The Department of Geosciences at The University of Akron offers comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs, focusing on geology, earth science, and environmental science.

Academic Programs

  • Undergraduate: Bachelor of Arts and Science degrees with opportunities in honors college programs.
  • Graduate: Advanced degrees in Geology, Earth Science, and Environmental Science with extensive research options.

Research Focus

Research areas include hydrogeology, paleoclimate, sedimentology, and geochemistry.

Field Experience

The department features a Geology Field Camp, providing practical experience in geosciences.

Community Engagement

Active involvement in community projects and significant contributions to local and national geosciences communities.

Bowling Green State University

Bowling Green, Ohio
Website: Department of Geography


Bowling Green State University’s Department of Geography offers comprehensive programs emphasizing the application of geospatial technologies and spatial analysis in various geographic fields.

Academic Programs

The department provides a Bachelor of Arts in Geography with optional specializations such as Human Dimensions of Climate Change and Geographic Information Systems. These courses integrate theoretical knowledge with practical skills in GIS, remote sensing, and environmental geography.

Faculty and Research

The faculty is involved in extensive research projects focusing on environmental sustainability, urban planning, and the impacts of climate change. This research supports academic growth and student involvement in cutting-edge geographic studies.

Student Engagement

The BGSU Geography Club and other student-led initiatives offer opportunities for community engagement, professional development, and networking. The department frequently hosts seminars and workshops that foster a deeper understanding of global and local geographic issues.

Student Activities

The BGSU Geography Club promotes geographical awareness and offers networking opportunities through various events and activities.

Facilities and Resources

Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities including geospatial labs and field equipment. These resources support advanced research and learning in both traditional and digital geographic methods.

Youngstown State University

Youngstown, Ohio
Website: Department of Geography and Urban-Regional Studies


Youngstown State University offers an array of programs through its Department of Geography and Urban-Regional Studies, which emphasize the practical application of geographical knowledge and technologies.

Academic Programs

The department provides a comprehensive educational experience with the following offerings:

  • Bachelor of Arts in Geography: Students can focus on various aspects of geography, preparing them for careers in environmental management, urban and regional planning, and geospatial technologies.
  • Minor Programs: These include minors in Geographic Information Science, Human Geography, Environmental Geography, Regional Geography, and General Geography, allowing students to tailor their studies to specific interests.
  • Certificates: A certificate in Geospatial Science and Technology is also available, equipping students with specialized skills in GIS and related technologies that are critical in many modern workplaces.

Faculty and Research

Faculty members are involved in significant research, contributing to advancements in spatial analysis and urban studies, which are integral to both academic pursuits and practical applications.

Community and Student Engagement

The department encourages student involvement in local projects and community planning efforts, providing practical experiences that complement their academic studies.

Special Resources

Students have access to specialized resources and facilities that support their academic and research activities, particularly in geospatial technologies.

Wright State University

Dayton, Ohio
Website: Department of Geography


Wright State University offers a focused curriculum in Geography that explores the interrelationships between human and physical phenomena on Earth’s surface.

Academic Programs

  • Bachelor of Science in Geography: This program emphasizes technical skills and logical thinking necessary for careers in fields like environmental consulting, town planning, and landscape architecture.
  • Combined BS in Geography & Master of Public Administration: A dual degree program that integrates geography with public administration.
  • Geography Minor: An addition to majors that enhance understanding of geographic perspectives.

Faculty Expertise

The faculty are experts in geospatial technologies, environmental planning, and global systems, which enrich the learning environment.

Prepares students for roles in government agencies, NGOs, and private sector firms involved in urban and regional planning, environmental management, and GIS.

Research and Innovation

Promotes research in sustainable development, climate change, and geospatial data analysis, fostering innovation through student projects.

Ohio Wesleyan University

Delaware, Ohio
Website: Geography Major – Department of Environment & Sustainability

The Geography Major at Ohio Wesleyan University offers a multidimensional approach to studying the relationship between human activities and the natural environment.

Academic Programs:

  • Core Curriculum: Includes courses in physical and human geography, GIS, and environmental sustainability.
  • Fieldwork and Research: Opportunities for hands-on projects, field studies, and collaborative research.
  • GIS and Cartography Training: Advanced instruction in geospatial technologies and map-making.

Faculty and Research Opportunities

Faculty support students in undertaking extensive research projects, including fieldwork and community-based studies.

Global Learning and Field Experience

Students have opportunities for travel-learning courses and involvement in significant research and practical projects worldwide.

Career Preparation

The program prepares students for careers in urban planning, environmental management, and more, with a strong emphasis on experiential learning.