Oklahoma Geography Degree Programs

The Bachelor of Science in Geography at the University of Oklahoma offers a comprehensive curriculum blending physical geography, human geography, and geospatial techniques. Students choose from three concentrations: Earth System Interactions, Environmental Geography, or Geotechniques, allowing them to specialize in climate, ecosystems, or GIS and remote sensing. The program emphasizes quantitative skills through a calculus sequence and analytical methods, preparing graduates for careers as GIS analysts, environmental consultants, urban planners, or geospatial scientists. Hands-on learning includes field techniques, aerial photo interpretation, and a capstone proseminar. With 126 total credit hours and a focus on upper-division coursework, students gain depth in their chosen area. Faculty advising and a maximum of 48 hours per department ensure a well-rounded education. This on-campus program equips students with spatial thinking and technical expertise for careers in government, industry, or further graduate study.

• 3 concentration options
• 126 total credit hours
• 2.0 GPA minimum
• Capstone required
• 48 hours of upper-division coursework required
• Maximum 48 credit hours per department

The Bachelor of Arts in Geography at the University of Oklahoma offers a comprehensive study of human and physical geography. Students explore topics from urban systems and economic geography to climatology and biogeography, developing skills in spatial analysis, cartography, and GIS. The curriculum requires a 12-hour area of concentration in Landscape Interpretation, Environmental Geography, or Geotechniques, allowing focused study tailored to career goals. A capstone proseminar integrates knowledge and prepares students for professional roles. Graduates pursue careers in urban planning, environmental consulting, GIS analysis, and education. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through field techniques and laboratory work. With a strong foundation in both human and physical geography, students graduate ready to address complex spatial issues in a variety of settings.

• 3 concentration options
• 2.0 GPA minimum
• Capstone required
• 48 upper-division hours required
• 24 hours outside major required
• Two intermediate foreign language courses required
• 12-hour area of concentration

The Master of Science in Geography and Environmental Sustainability at the University of Oklahoma offers a concentration in Geospatial Technologies. This on-campus program blends physical geography with advanced spatial analysis, training students to become experts in GIS, remote sensing, and environmental modeling. The curriculum covers contemporary geographical thought, research methods, and spatial statistics, with guided electives tailored to geospatial applications. Students can choose between a thesis path, ideal for those considering a PhD, or a non-thesis option with a comprehensive exam. Graduates pursue careers in environmental consulting, urban planning, natural resource management, and government agencies. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through research assistantships and small class sizes, with a supportive community of about 50 on-campus graduate students. Faculty mentorship is central, and assistantships often include stipends, tuition waivers, and health insurance. No GRE is required, and applicants from diverse backgrounds are welcome.

• 2 concentration options
• No entrance exam required
• Complete in about two years
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Thesis or capstone option
• $50 application fee
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Must identify faculty advisor before applying

The Master of Science in Geography and Environmental Sustainability with a concentration in Environmental Systems at the University of Oklahoma prepares students for careers in environmental management, research, and policy. The curriculum covers physical geography, spatial analysis, and environmental systems, with guided electives tailored to individual goals. Students choose between a thesis option (30 credits) ideal for those pursuing a PhD, and a non-thesis option (33 credits) with a comprehensive exam. The on-campus program typically takes two years to complete, with fall and spring start dates. No GRE is required for admission. Graduate research and teaching assistantships provide stipends, health insurance, and full tuition waivers. Graduates emerge as experts in spatial analysis and environmental resource governance, ready for leadership in public and private sectors.

• 2 concentration options
• No entrance exam required
• 2-Year program
• Complete in about two years
• Apply by 2026-01-15
• Full-time and part-time options
• 2 start dates per year
• Starts fall/spring
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• 2 letters of recommendation (minimum)

The online Master of Science in Geography and Environmental Sustainability with a concentration in Geospatial Technologies equips you with advanced skills in GIS, remote sensing, and spatial data analysis. Over 33 credits, you'll explore topics like spatial statistics, digital image processing, and geographic information systems, applying them to real-world challenges in urban planning, natural resource management, and disaster mapping. The curriculum blends theory with hands-on application, preparing you for leadership roles such as GIS manager, remote sensing scientist, or urban planner. Delivered fully online in an asynchronous format with optional live sessions, the program offers flexibility for working professionals. You'll progress through a small, focused cohort, building a strong network alongside expert faculty. With rolling admissions and the ability to transfer up to 12 credits, this program provides a practical path to advance your career in the fast-growing geospatial technology sector.

• $33,495 total program tuition
• $1,015 per credit
• 21-Month program
• 33 total credit hours
• Rolling admissions
• Asynchronous online classes
• Cohort-based structure
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• Capstone required
• Employer reimbursement supported

The Bachelor of Arts in Geography at Oklahoma State University blends physical and cultural geography with hands-on training in geographic information systems, mapping, and field data collection. Students build a strong foundation in both human-environment interactions and digital geospatial tools, with required coursework in GIS fundamentals, modern mapping, and field techniques. The 120-hour degree includes a four-year plan of study, general education requirements, and a foreign language component, giving graduates a broad liberal arts perspective. With a minimum GPA requirement and upper-division coursework, the program emphasizes analytical thinking, spatial reasoning, and technical skills applicable to careers in environmental management, urban planning, geospatial analysis, and more. Students meet with advisors each semester to keep their degree on track.

• 4-Year program
• 120 total credit hours
• 2.0 GPA minimum
• Advisor meeting required each semester
• Foreign language proficiency for BA
• 40 upper-division credit hours required
• 2.5 GPA required in major
• Non-Western studies course required

Oklahoma State University's Master of Science in Geography offers three specialized concentrations: Geographic Information Science including UAS, Nature-Society Dynamics, and Cultural and Historical Geography. The curriculum blends core coursework in research methods, professional development, and geographic thought with flexible thesis or non-thesis options. Students gain hands-on experience in three GIS labs, drone technology, and the Center for Applications of Remote Sensing. Faculty actively mentor students, fostering skills in fieldwork, data analysis, and academic writing. Graduates pursue careers in government agencies, private industry, and academia. The department provides strong financial support through graduate assistantships that include tuition waivers and health insurance, plus scholarships for research and travel. With state-of-the-art facilities and a collaborative learning environment, this program prepares students for impactful careers in geography and geospatial sciences.

• 3 concentration options
• 3 start dates per year
• Starts fall/spring/summer
• 3 letters of recommendation (minimum)
• Thesis or capstone option
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Three GIS labs for student work
• Access to drones and remote sensing
• Graduate assistantships include tuition waiver

The Geography and Sustainability Studies bachelor's program at Northeastern State University blends human and biophysical geography with a strong focus on sustainability. Students learn to analyze spatial data, create maps, and use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to solve real-world problems. The curriculum covers human-environment interactions, cultural landscapes, and geospatial technology, preparing graduates for careers in urban and regional planning, natural resource management, environmental consulting, real estate, and government agencies. Hands-on learning is central to the experience, with opportunities for field trips, immersive projects, and internships that connect classroom knowledge to community issues. The program also offers a GIS certificate to boost technical skills. With a four-year degree path and a reputation as a top 30 bachelor's in geography, this program equips students for immediate employment or further study in geography, sustainability, or environmental graduate programs.

• 4-Year program
• Top 30 Bachelor's in Geography ranking
• Careers in planning and resource management
• Immersive learning and internships
• GIS certificate available

Northeastern State University offers a 30-credit, two-year online Master of Science in Applied GIS. The program combines advanced GIS coursework—including spatial analysis, automation, and field techniques—with project-based learning. Students choose an outside concentration in sustainability or professional enhancement (e.g., business, leadership, or criminal justice). The curriculum culminates in a thesis or practicum/capstone, and conditional admission is available. Graduates are prepared for geospatial technology leadership roles in government, healthcare, and business. The program is designed for working professionals seeking career advancement.

• 2-Year program
• 30 total credit hours
• Prerequisite courses required
• Thesis or capstone option
• Prepares for GIS leadership roles
• Project-based core courses
• Outside concentration in sustainability
• Conditional acceptance available
• Designed for professionals and graduates

East Central University's Bachelor of Science in Geography, part of the Geography and Geotechniques program, provides a thorough grounding in physical and human geography alongside geospatial technologies. Students study Earth's features, human-environment interactions, and spatial analysis through courses in GIS, remote sensing, and cartography. Hands-on work in the Spatial Graphics Lab and a senior capstone project are key components. As the only cartography degree in Oklahoma, this program prepares graduates for careers as cartographers, GIS analysts, demographers, and more in public and private sectors. Multiple scholarships are available, and active organizations like the Cartography Society offer professional development. With internship options and small classes, students gain practical skills for the workforce or graduate study.

• entry level jobs typically earn between $34,000 and $43,000
• Capstone required
• Scholarships available
• Only cartography degree in Oklahoma
• State-of-the-art Spatial Graphics Lab
• Active student organizations: Cartography Society, Gamma Theta Upsilon
• Internship option available
• Careers: Cartographer, Demographer, GIS Analyst

East Central University's Bachelor of Science in Geography with a concentration in Geotechniques focuses on cartography, remote sensing, GIS, and GPS. As Oklahoma's only cartography degree, students gain hands-on experience in the Spatial Graphics Lab and complete a senior capstone. The curriculum blends 43 credit hours of core courses with electives, exploring physical and human geography and geospatial technologies. Graduates pursue careers as cartographers, GIS analysts, and aerial photo interpreters. Small faculty, active student organizations like the Cartography Society, and annual scholarships provide a supportive environment. Internship opportunities further enhance practical skills.

• 2 concentration options
• Graduates with a geotechniques degree typically earn between $34,000 and $43,000 for entry level jobs
• Capstone required
• Financial aid available
• Scholarships available
• Only cartography degree in Oklahoma
• State-of-the-art Spatial Graphics Lab
• Student organizations: Cartography Society, GTU
• Internship opportunities available
• Focus on cartography, GIS, and remote sensing

The B.A. in Geography at the University of Central Oklahoma offers a personalized, hands-on learning experience. The curriculum blends physical and human geography with a strong emphasis on Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and geospatial analysis. You'll explore topics like economic geography, climatology, and cartography, with opportunities for fieldwork and research projects. Small class sizes mean close mentorship from faculty who are experts in their fields. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in environmental management, urban planning, meteorology, and more. The program also features a Geography Student Organization and regular internship opportunities to build practical skills. With no application deadline, it's easy to start your journey.

• 124 total credit hours
• Scholarships available
• Small class sizes
• Focus on GIS and geospatial analysis
• Regular internship opportunities
• No application deadline
• Geography Student Organization available
• Prepares for careers in climatology, hydrology, and more
• Fieldwork and research projects
• Personalized educational experience