Oregon Geography Degree Programs

Oregon offers a diverse range of geography programs, including online and on-campus options at institutions like Oregon State University, the University of Oregon, Portland State University, and Mt. Hood Community College.

Programs emphasize GIS, spatial analysis, and environmental studies, preparing students for careers in urban planning, natural resource management, and data analysis. Online programs like OSU’s Ecampus provide flexibility and hands-on learning, while transfer-focused pathways at MHCC offer cost-effective preparation for four-year degrees.

Online Programs in Oregon

Oregon State


Oregon State University’s Ecampus offers an esteemed online Bachelor of Science in Geography and Geospatial Science, providing students with practical skills in GIS, mapping, and data analysis. Ranked #4 in the nation for online bachelor’s programs by U.S. News & World Report, the program mirrors the academic rigor of on-campus learning and features instruction from OSU’s renowned faculty.

Students complete 180 quarter credits, including courses on climate justice, geovisualization, and spatial data science, while benefiting from flexible scheduling and robust support services. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in environmental management, urban planning, transportation logistics, and beyond, making this program a pathway to success in high-demand fields.

On Campus Programs in Oregon

Oregon State University

Corvallis, OR
Website: Geography and Geospatial Science – Oregon State University

Overview

Oregon State University’s Geography and Geospatial Science program, housed within the College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences (CEOAS), offers students an interdisciplinary education focused on understanding spatial relationships and environmental systems.

The program emphasizes critical problem-solving skills and the use of geospatial technologies to address global challenges.

Academic Programs

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Geography and Geospatial Science

The Geography and Geospatial Science Bachelor of Science at Oregon State University is a multidisciplinary program that blends physical geography, human geography, and geospatial science (GIS). The program requires 180 total credits, including general education, core geography courses, and upper-division electives, with a minimum OSU GPA of 2.0.

Students can complete the program on the Corvallis campus or fully online through OSU’s Ecampus, providing flexibility for diverse learning needs.

Curriculum and Features

The curriculum includes courses in GIS, cartography, remote sensing, and climate science, along with hands-on learning through fieldwork and internships. Students engage in experiential learning opportunities, such as research and field courses like GEOG 295 and GEOG 495, to develop practical skills in data collection and analysis.

Writing-intensive and elective courses allow students to explore topics like environmental justice, resource management, and global development.

Graduate Degrees

  • Master of Science (M.S.) in Geography:
    • Offers advanced training in spatial analysis, geospatial technologies, and environmental research.
  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Geography:
    • Focuses on original research and advanced geospatial methodologies.

Certificates

  • Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Science (GIScience):
    • Designed for professionals seeking expertise in GIS technologies and applications.

Research and Facilities

The program provides extensive research opportunities in areas such as:

  • Climate science and adaptation
  • Landscape ecology
  • Remote sensing
  • Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced GIS labs and geospatial software, to conduct cutting-edge research.

Faculty Expertise

The faculty specializes in diverse fields such as cartography, remote sensing, climate science, and spatial analysis. They mentor students in interdisciplinary research projects that address pressing environmental and societal issues.

Outcomes and Career Opportunities

Graduates are equipped to address pressing global challenges, from climate change to resource conflict, using cutting-edge geospatial tools. They pursue careers in natural resource management, urban planning, environmental consulting, and GIS analysis in sectors like government, private industry, and non-profits.

The program emphasizes both technical skills and critical thinking, ensuring students are competitive in the job market.

Community and Sustainability Initiatives

The program actively participates in community engagement projects and sustainability initiatives, enabling students to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts.

University of Oregon

Eugene, OR

Website: https://socialsciences.uoregon.edu/geography

The Department of Geography at the University of Oregon is recognized as one of the top ten geography programs in the United States. It offers comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs that delve into critical societal and environmental issues, including climate change, water resources, economic development, land use, conflict, migration, spatial data science, and cartography.

Mission and Vision

The department is dedicated to advancing knowledge from a spatial perspective through research, education, and community engagement.

It aims to foster a diverse and inclusive community that studies the interactions among people, place, and environment, utilizing spatial data, geographic methods, and cartographic communication to promote a resilient and just world.

Academic Programs

The University of Oregon’s Geography Program offers a Bachelor of Arts or Science in Geography, a Bachelor of Science in Spatial Data Science and Technology, and minors in Climate Studies and Geography.

Recognized as one of the top ten geography programs in the nation, the department combines expertise in physical and social geography, geospatial science, and cartography.

Students explore topics such as climate change, water resources, land use, migration, spatial data science, and environmental justice through a mix of coursework, research, and experiential learning.

Curriculum and Features

The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches to understanding human-environment interactions.

Core courses cover topics in physical geography, cultural geography, and geospatial technology, with options to specialize in areas like Geographic Information Science (GIS), environmental systems, and water science and policy.

Students gain hands-on experience through fieldwork, internships, and research opportunities, supported by access to state-of-the-art faculty labs and resources like the Cryo-Hydro Earth Observation Lab.

Additional Programs and Opportunities

Beyond undergraduate degrees, the department offers graduate programs leading to M.A., M.S., and Ph.D. degrees in Geography, emphasizing human geography, physical geography, and GIS.

Students can also enhance their studies with certificates in Climate Studies or Geographic Information Science. The program supports professional development through advising, career-readiness courses, and study abroad opportunities, fostering a robust academic and professional community.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of the program are equipped with in-demand skills such as critical thinking, spatial data analysis, and geographic visualization. Alumni pursue careers as GIS analysts, cartographers, environmental consultants, data scientists, and policy advisors.

The program has a strong track record of alumni success, with placements at organizations like National Geographic and the U.S. Census Bureau.

Research and Outreach

The department conducts high-impact research that informs policy and decision-making at various levels. It provides opportunities for both graduate and undergraduate students to engage in research under faculty mentorship.

Additionally, the department is committed to promoting geographic literacy and addressing real-world issues through outreach and service, aiming to make a positive impact in local and global communities.

Career Opportunities

Graduates from the department pursue diverse careers, including roles such as cartographers at National Geographic, development heads at nonprofits, independent drone operators, data analysts for the U.S. Census, and GIS analysts for utility companies. The department emphasizes career readiness, assisting students in translating their academic experiences into professional opportunities.

Portland State University

Portland, OR

Website: https://www.pdx.edu/geography/

The Department of Geography at Portland State University (PSU) integrates environmental sciences and cultural studies, focusing on environmental issues, social and cultural landscapes, sustainability in urban and natural areas, and Geographic Information Science (GIS).

The department offers comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address complex global challenges.

Academic Programs

The Geography Program at Portland State University offers a Bachelor of Arts or Science in Geography, a minor in Geography, and specialized programs like the Climate Change Science and Adaptation Minor and the Water Resources Minor.

Known for addressing global and local environmental and social challenges, the department integrates Geographic Information Science (GIS), cartography, and spatial analysis into its coursework. Students engage in topics such as hydrology, urban environments, sustainability, and climate science.

The department also offers a Master of Arts/Master of Science in Geography, a Master of Science in GIS, a Graduate Certificate in GIS, and a joint Ph.D. in Earth, Environment, and Society.

Curriculum and Specializations

The curriculum provides a comprehensive education in physical and human geography, emphasizing GIS, remote sensing, and cartography. Students can choose courses across three core areas: Physical Geography, Human Geography, and Geographic Techniques.

Concentrations in topics like urban environments, climate change, and resource management allow students to tailor their studies. Experiential learning opportunities include fieldwork, internships, and research projects, supported by the Center for Spatial Analysis and Research (CSAR) and the Climate Science Lab.

Research and Facilities

PSU’s Geography Department houses two research centers: the Center for Geography Education in Oregon and the Center for Spatial Analysis and Research. Additionally, there are four research labs dedicated to climate science, geomorphology and soils, global environmental change, and hydrology and water resources. These facilities support high-quality instruction, research, and community outreach.

Faculty Expertise

The department’s faculty engage in diverse research areas, including hydrology, water resources, climate science, GIS, biogeography, sustainability, urban environments, land use analysis, cultural and political ecology, and K-12 geographic education.

Their work spans local, regional, and international contexts, providing students with a rich and varied educational experience.

Location and Opportunities

Situated in downtown Portland, PSU offers students access to urban amenities and proximity to diverse natural environments such as the Pacific Coast, Cascade Mountains, and high desert. This location facilitates field-based classes and research opportunities. The presence of numerous federal, state, and local agencies in Portland also provides avenues for applied, community-based scholarship and student involvement.

Career Prospects

Graduates from the Geography program find employment in various fields, including urban and natural resource management, spatial/GIS analysis, urban planning, map design and production, and data and statistical analysis. The department serves as the lead on campus for training in GIS, remote sensing, cartography, and spatial analysis, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the job market.

Southern Oregon University

Ashland, OR
Website: https://catalog.sou.edu/preview_entity.php?catoid=5&ent_oid=204

The Geography Program at Southern Oregon University (SOU) examines the relationships between human activities and physical and cultural environments across global, regional, and local scales. By synthesizing concepts from natural and social sciences, the program serves as a bridge between these disciplines, addressing questions such as “What is it?”, “Where is it?”, and “Why is it there?”

Academic Offerings

Geography Minor

  • Includes subjects such as human geography, regional geography, natural resources, conservation, land use planning, economic geography, weather and climate, cartography, geomorphology, and geographic information systems (GIS).
  • Courses contribute to the Environmental Studies and Social Sciences, Policy, and Culture Departments, as well as support the University Studies program, International Studies Program, and minors in geography and land use planning.

Teacher Licensing

  • Geography is a critical component of teaching in Oregon’s elementary, middle, and high schools.
  • Requirements:
    • Completion of at least one geography course is necessary before applying for specific licensure programs in education, such as:
      • MAT Middle School/High School Social Studies Program
      • MAT Early Childhood/Elementary/Middle School Multiple Subjects Program
      • Elementary Education bachelor’s degree and licensure program
  • Prospective students should consult the SOU School of Education chair for appropriate advising regarding admission requirements.

Faculty

  • Program Coordinator: Pat Acklin
  • Faculty Members:
    • Professor John Richards
    • Emeritus Professors Claude Curran, John Mairs, and Susan Reynolds

Career Opportunities

  • The Geography minor is beneficial for students pursuing programs like:
    • Environmental Studies
    • International Studies
    • Business
    • Education
    • Social Sciences
    • Natural Sciences
  • Prepares students for careers in:
    • Natural resource management
    • Urban planning
    • Conservation
    • Education

Mt. Hood Community College

Gresham, OR
Website: https://www.mhcc.edu/education-options/degrees-certificates/geography/

The Geography program at Mt. Hood Community College (MHCC) provides a comprehensive understanding of Earth’s climate, soil, landforms, and the intricate relationships between people and their environments. Students gain skills in map analysis and creation, preparing them for diverse fields where spatial awareness is crucial.

Academic Offerings

Program Details

While pursuing a Geography major, students can fulfill Social Science and elective requirements for an associate degree, facilitating a cost-effective pathway before transferring to a four-year institution.

Key Courses:

  • GEOG105: Introduction to Physical Geography
  • GEOG106: Introduction to World Regional Geography
  • GEOG107: Introduction to Cultural Geography
  • GEOG202: The Geography of Europe
  • GEOG206: Geography of Oregon
  • GEOG209: Geography of the Middle East and North Africa
  • GEOG214: Geography of Mexico and Central America
  • GEOG290: Environmental Problems and Restoration

Transfer Opportunities

The program is designed to align with requirements for students planning to transfer to four-year institutions such as Portland State University and the University of Oregon. Collaboration with MHCC advisors ensures appropriate course selection for seamless transfer.

Career Opportunities

Graduates with a background in geography can pursue careers in various fields, including:

  • Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Technologists and Technicians: Designing and preparing graphic representations of GIS data.
  • Surveying and Mapping Technicians: Developing databases with geographic or topographic data.
  • Urban and Regional Planners: Creating reports on land use data and mediating community planning disputes.
  • Cartographers and Photogrammetrists: Inspecting and revising maps and charts for accuracy.

Getting Started

Admission Process: Prospective students can begin the Geography program in any term. After meeting reading, writing, and math placement requirements, admitted students can register for classes.

First-Term Recommended Courses:

  • GEOG105: Introduction to Physical Geography
  • WR121Z: Composition I
  • Arts and Letters Course: (e.g., ART260)
  • Elective/University Requirement