Texas offers a wide variety of geography degree programs designed to prepare students for careers in environmental studies, urban planning, geospatial technology, and research. From bachelor’s to master’s degrees, students can explore both human and physical geography, often with opportunities to specialize in areas such as GIS, environmental sustainability, or cultural and regional studies. Many universities in Texas also emphasize hands-on learning through fieldwork, labs, and research assistantships, giving students the practical skills needed for career success.
Programs are available at leading institutions across the state, including The University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, Texas State University, and more. Students can choose from affordable options at public universities, prestigious research-driven programs, or degrees with strong teaching or GIS-focused pathways. With options spanning urban centers like Austin, Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio, as well as smaller college towns, Texas provides an ideal environment for studying the state’s diverse landscapes and global geographic issues.
On this page, you’ll find a breakdown of Texas colleges and universities that offer geography degrees. Each school listing includes details about degree levels offered, program highlights, and links to more information so you can compare your options easily. The page is designed to help future students identify programs that match their interests, career goals, and preferred learning formats.
2026 Best Geography Degree Programs in Texas
The University of Texas at Austin
Austin, TX - Public 4-Year - utexas.edu
Master's - Master of Arts
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Texas at Austin's Master of Arts in Geography provides a rigorous graduate education focused on spatial analysis and environmental systems. Students can select either a 30-hour thesis track or 36-hour report track, both emphasizing independent research with faculty guidance. The curriculum includes mandatory first-year seminars and requires proficiency in either a foreign language or quantitative/qualitative methods. This program does not require an entrance exam, allowing flexible interdisciplinary exploration for students pursuing advanced geographical studies.
- Flexible 30-36 semester hour program
- Thesis or report completion options
- Language or methods proficiency required
- Two required first-year seminars
- Independent research focus
Texas A & M University-College Station
College Station, TX - Public 4-Year - tamu.edu
Bachelor's - Geography - BS
Campus Based - Visit Website
Texas A&M University's Bachelor of Science in Geography offers an interdisciplinary curriculum that blends human geography, natural environments, and Geographic Information Science. Students develop expertise in geospatial methods to analyze complex human and physical systems, preparing for roles in government, research, natural resources, and consulting. The program features flexible double major options and requires 120 credit hours, emphasizing career-ready spatial analysis skills. As a bachelor's program, entrance exams like ACT or SAT are typically required for admission.
- Interdisciplinary degree approach
- Geospatial methods training
- Flexible double major options
- 120 total semester credit hours
- Career-ready spatial analysis skills
Master's - Master of Science in Geography
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master of Science in Geography at Texas A&M University provides advanced study of physical and social processes through thesis or non-thesis tracks, tailored to career objectives in government, education, or industry. With 32-36 credit hours, full-time students can complete the program in four semesters, gaining skills for Ph.D. pursuits or professional leadership. Admission requires a bachelor's degree, preferably in geography or related fields, and typically necessitates an entrance exam such as the GRE.
- 32-36 credit hours
- Thesis and non-thesis options
- Full-time study in four semesters
- Prepares for Ph.D. or careers
- Bachelor's degree required
Texas State University
San Marcos, TX - Public 4-Year - txst.edu
Bachelor's - Geography
Campus Based - Visit Website
Texas State University's Geography program provides Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science options, allowing students to specialize in various human and physical geography areas. This campus-based undergraduate program develops skills in spatial thinking, data interpretation, and interdisciplinary problem-solving for careers in research, environmental planning, GIS technology, and global analysis. With six major concentrations and five minor options, the flexible curriculum supports personalized academic paths. Admission requires ACT or SAT scores as standard for bachelor's programs. Located within the College of Liberal Arts, it emphasizes comprehensive geographical understanding through diverse specializations.
- Two degree options: B.A. and B.S.
- Multiple geography majors available
- Six potential major concentrations
- Five minor options
- Located in College of Liberal Arts
- Campus-based undergraduate program
Bachelor's - Geography
Concentration: General Geography - Campus Based - Visit Website
Texas State University's General Geography concentration offers both Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees on campus in San Marcos. This program provides a solid foundation in geographical sciences, catering to diverse academic and career interests through hands-on learning and research opportunities. Students can enhance their studies with multiple minors and receive academic advising to tailor their plans. As an undergraduate program, admission requires ACT or SAT scores. It emphasizes practical experience in a supportive environment, preparing graduates for various geography-related fields with a broad, comprehensive approach to the discipline.
- Bachelor of Arts option
- Bachelor of Science option
- Campus-based program
- General Geography concentration
- Multiple minors available
- Academic advising support
- Hands-on learning opportunities
- Research opportunities
- Located in San Marcos, TX
Bachelor's - Geography
Concentration: Physical Geography - Campus Based - Visit Website
Texas State University's Physical Geography concentration, available as Bachelor of Arts or Science degrees, focuses on Earth's physical processes through rigorous academics and fieldwork in San Marcos. This campus-based program prepares students for environmental careers in science, planning, or research with a career-focused curriculum and expert faculty guidance. It includes access to cutting-edge resources and a supportive learning environment. Admission is straightforward and requires ACT or SAT scores for this bachelor's level program. Competitive tuition and practical opportunities make it ideal for those passionate about physical geography and its applications.
- Bachelor of Arts and Science options.
- Focus on Physical Geography.
- Campus-based program.
- Competitive tuition costs.
- Fieldwork opportunities included.
- Expert faculty guidance.
- Career-focused curriculum.
- Supportive learning environment.
- Access to cutting-edge resources.
- Straightforward admissions process.
Master's - Geography (M.A.Geo./M.S.)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Texas State University's Geography graduate program offers Master of Arts in Geography and Master of Science degrees with concentrations in environmental, physical, and human geography, plus geographic information sciences and education. The 30-credit M.S. requires a thesis, while the 33-credit M.A.Geo. includes a research paper, with online options for flexibility. Faculty are nationally and internationally recognized, providing research and teaching opportunities. Admission requires a baccalaureate degree, 3.0-3.2 GPA, transcripts, resume, and statement of purpose. Notably, no GRE is required, making it accessible for advanced geographical studies and careers in public/private sectors or doctoral preparation.
- 30-33 credit hours
- Thesis or research paper
- Online options available
- No GRE required
- 3.0 or 3.2 GPA needed
- Research and teaching opportunities
- Nationally recognized faculty
- Flexible graduate degree plans
- Environmental geography focus
- Geographic information sciences
University of North Texas
Denton, TX - Public 4-Year - unt.edu
Master's - M.S. in Geography
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of North Texas offers a Master of Science in Geography program that addresses societal and environmental challenges through geographic principles. This 2-3 year, 36-credit hour campus program features both professional and research tracks, with specializations including Applied Geomorphology, GIS & Remote Sensing, and Urban Environmental Management. Students gain hands-on experience through research, teaching opportunities, and internships in specialized laboratories. The program emphasizes developing marketable skills in spatial analysis, quantitative methods, and sustainable solutions. As a master's level program, entrance exam requirements are not explicitly mentioned in the provided information.
- 2-3 years to complete
- 36 credit hours required
- On-campus format
- Professional and research tracks
- Specializations available
- Research and teaching experience
- Internship opportunities
- Specialized laboratories
- Thesis Boot Camp
- Interaction with faculty experts
Master's - M.S. in Geography
Concentration: Applied Geomorphology - Campus Based - Visit Website
University of North Texas provides an M.S. in Geography with an Applied Geomorphology concentration, focusing on solving environmental issues like floods, droughts, and urban development. This campus-based program spans 2-3 years and requires 36 credit hours, incorporating research design, statistical methods, and GIS applications. Students engage in internships and research within specialized labs, preparing for careers in geoscience and urban planning. The curriculum blends physical and human geography to foster sustainable solutions. For this master's program, entrance exam requirements are not specified in the available data.
- Campus-based program
- 2-3 years to complete
- 36 credit hours
- Concentration in Applied Geomorphology
- Research and teaching experience
- Internship opportunities
- Specialized laboratories available
- Thesis and non-thesis options
- Skills in GIS and remote sensing
- Focus on sustainable solutions
Master's - M.S. in Geography
Concentration: GIS & Remote Sensing - Campus Based - Visit Website
At the University of North Texas, the M.S. in Geography with a GIS & Remote Sensing concentration equips students with advanced skills in spatial problem-solving using cutting-edge technologies. This 2-3 year, 36-credit hour campus program focuses on analyzing geospatial data to address societal and environmental challenges. With access to state-of-the-art laboratories and expert faculty, graduates are prepared for diverse careers in sectors requiring geospatial expertise. The program emphasizes practical applications and does not mention specific entrance exam requirements for admission at the master's level.
- Concentration in GIS & Remote Sensing
- 36 credit hours required
- Completion in 2-3 years
- On-campus format
- State-of-the-art laboratories
- Expert faculty guidance
- Focus on societal challenges
- Advanced spatial problem-solving
- Cutting-edge technology use
- Prepares for diverse careers
Texas Tech University
Lubbock, TX - Public 4-Year - ttu.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Geography and the Environment
Campus Based - Visit Website
Texas Tech University's Bachelor of Arts in Geography and Environment develops critical thinking through hands-on GIS, remote sensing, and GPS applications. Students explore human-environment interactions with access to advanced labs and research opportunities, preparing for careers in environmental science and urban planning. The program offers minors in Geographic Information Science and Technology, enhancing technical versatility. Admission requires meeting undergraduate criteria, including ACT or SAT exams. State-of-the-art facilities and assistantships support academic growth in this comprehensive geography degree.
- BA in Geography and the Environment
- Focus on GIS and remote sensing
- Hands-on research experience
- Undergraduate certificate in GIST
- Minor in Geographic Information Science
- State-of-the-art facilities
- Research assistantships available
- Teaching assistantships for grads
- Out-of-state tuition waiver
- Diverse research themes
Master's - Master of Science in Geography and the Environment
Campus Based - Visit Website
Texas Tech University's Master of Science in Geography and Environment emphasizes GIS and remote sensing to address societal challenges through research and teaching assistantships. The program provides tuition waivers and hands-on experience in human-environment studies using advanced labs. Admission requires application to graduate admissions and the geography program, with entrance exams typically needed. This master's program prepares graduates for professional roles in environmental science with a strong foundation in geographic techniques and critical analysis.
- Focus on GIS and remote sensing.
- Teaching assistantships available.
- Research assistantships offered.
- State-of-the-art facilities.
- Tuition waivers for assistants.
Stephen F. Austin State University
Nacogdoches, TX - Public 4-Year - sfasu.edu
Bachelor's - Geography
Campus Based - Visit Website
Stephen F Austin State University's Geography program offers Bachelor of Arts or Science degrees that blend human and physical sciences, emphasizing human-environment interaction in Texas's diverse ecosystem. Students gain skills in geographic information systems and cartography, preparing for careers in government, education, and business. A minor is available to complement other majors. This campus-based program does not require an ACT or SAT entrance exam for admission, with multiple term start dates and advisor guidance for requirements.
- Bachelor of Arts or Science
- Focus on human-environment interaction
- Diverse career options
- Geographic information systems coursework
- Minor available
- Located in diverse Texas ecosystem
- Interdisciplinary education
- Cartography skills development
- Admissions open for multiple terms
- Consult advisor for requirements
The University of Texas at Dallas
Richardson, TX - Public 4-Year - utdallas.edu
Bachelor's - Education (BA) with 7-12 Social Studies (Geography Concentration)
Concentration: Geography - Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Texas at Dallas offers a Bachelor of Arts in Education with a 7-12 Social Studies Geography Concentration, preparing students for secondary teaching careers. This 120-credit program integrates geographical studies with pedagogical training, emphasizing classroom experience and educational technology. Students develop expertise in social studies curriculum and geography, leading to Texas teacher certification. As a bachelor's program, it requires ACT or SAT entrance exams. Graduates are equipped with interdisciplinary skills for effective geography education in diverse classroom settings.
- 120 semester credit hours
- Texas teacher certification path
- Comprehensive social studies focus
- Practical classroom experiences
- Interdisciplinary curriculum approach
- Educational technology integration
- Diverse geography concentration
- Accredited teacher preparation program
The University of Texas at San Antonio
San Antonio, TX - Public 4-Year - utsa.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Geography and Environmental Sustainability
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Master of Arts in Geography and Environmental Sustainability at The University of Texas at San Antonio provides comprehensive graduate training focused on analyzing social processes and physical environments across diverse contexts. Students develop expertise in spatial analysis, methodological techniques, and data management while addressing sustainability challenges in urban, regional, and global settings. The program requires 36 credit hours with both thesis and non-thesis options, plus a comprehensive exam. Professional development through internships, conference presentations, and academic publications prepares graduates for doctoral studies or career advancement. This master's program requires entrance exams as part of the application process.
- 36 credit hours total
- Thesis and non-thesis options
- Professional development opportunities
- Advanced research design skills
- Comprehensive exam required
- Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
- Internship and conference participation
- Specialized elective courses
- Research methodology training
- Geographic Information Systems focus
University of Houston-Clear Lake
Houston, TX - Public 4-Year - uhcl.edu
Bachelor's - Geography B.S.
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Houston-Clear Lake's Bachelor of Science in Geography provides a comprehensive foundation in human geography, human-environment interactions, and geospatial technologies. Students gain proficiency in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), applicable to careers in defense, meteorology, and transportation. The program includes field and technical training, with tailored study plans available through advisor guidance. Graduates are prepared for roles in earth sciences, forestry, public works, and parks, or for further education. Admission for this bachelor's program requires ACT or SAT scores, and details on requirements and costs are available on the university's website.
- Focus on human geography.
- Emphasis on geospatial technologies.
- Field and technical training included.
- Proficiency in GIS.
- Tailored study plans available.
- Prepares for diverse careers.
- Admission for various student types.
- Detailed degree requirements online.
- Cost information provided.
- Located in Houston, TX.
Bachelor's - Geography B.S. with Social Studies 7-12 Certification
Concentration: Social Studies 7-12 Certification - Campus Based - Visit Website
Focusing on the Social Studies 7-12 Certification concentration, this Geography B.S. at the University of Houston-Clear Lake prepares students to teach geography and social studies in junior and senior high schools. The curriculum emphasizes urban, economic, and social geography, blending content knowledge with effective teaching strategies to address global and local geographical issues. This program equips future educators with skills to engage young learners in social sciences. Admission for this bachelor's program requires ACT or SAT scores, with costs varying by residency status, and specific criteria detailed by the university.
- Prepares for 7-12 teaching certification.
- Focus on urban, economic, social geography.
- Combines content knowledge with teaching strategies.
- Admission based on UHCL criteria.
- Cost varies by residency status.
- Curriculum fosters global understanding.
Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, TX - Public 4-Year - shsu.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts, Major Geography
Concentration: Environment, Culture, and Development - Campus Based - Visit Website
Sam Houston State University's Bachelor of Arts in Geography with an Environment, Culture, and Development concentration offers an interdisciplinary exploration of physical and human geography, emphasizing environmental sustainability, cultural dynamics, and population studies. Students develop critical skills in spatial analysis using GIS and remote sensing, with field study opportunities worldwide. This program prepares graduates for diverse careers in urban planning, environmental consulting, and public health. Admission requires ACT or SAT scores as part of standard bachelor's program requirements. The curriculum includes 120-122 credit hours and blends theoretical knowledge with practical applications for tackling global challenges.
- 120-122 total credit hours
- Two degree options: BA/BS
- Field study opportunities worldwide
- Geospatial technology training
- Diverse career pathway potential
- Interdisciplinary learning approach
- Multiple concentration options
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science, Major Geography
Concentration: Environment, Culture, and Development - Campus Based - Visit Website
The Bachelor of Science in Geography at Sam Houston State University, focusing on Environment, Culture, and Development, integrates human and physical geography to address sustainable development and environmental issues. Students gain hands-on experience with geospatial technologies like GIS, supported by courses in meteorology and hydrology. This program emphasizes critical thinking and technical skills for careers in environmental planning and cultural geography. Admission requires a 2.0 GPA and ACT or SAT scores, with financial aid options available. The comprehensive curriculum prepares graduates for evolving job markets through real-world applications and interdisciplinary learning.
- Focus on sustainable development.
- Hands-on GIS experience.
- Courses in meteorology, hydrology.
- Prepares for environmental careers.
- Requires 2.0 GPA for admission.
- Financial aid options available.
- Comprehensive environmental curriculum.
- Blends human and physical geography.
- Geospatial technology training.
- Cultural geography focus.
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science, Major Geography
Concentration: Geo-spatial Information Sciences - Campus Based - Visit Website
Sam Houston State University's Bachelor of Science in Geography with a Geo-spatial Information Sciences concentration provides cutting-edge training in GIS programming, remote sensing, and map design. Students learn to interpret complex environmental data and develop solutions for urban planning and sustainability challenges. The program includes hands-on projects, statistical analysis, and technical writing, fostering critical thinking and technology proficiency. Admission requires meeting general university requirements, including ACT or SAT scores and math/science prerequisites. This 120-credit hour curriculum equips graduates with practical skills for careers in environmental analysis and geospatial technology, emphasizing real-world experience and comprehensive technical training.
- BS in Geography
- Geo-spatial Information Sciences concentration
- Campus-based program
- 120 credit hours
- Includes GIS programming
- Remote sensing coursework
- Hands-on projects
- Focus on sustainability
- Prepares for environmental careers
- Urban planning skills
2026 Most Affordable Geography Programs in Texas
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List of Texas Bachelors and Masters in Geography Programs
Austin, TX
The University of Texas at Austin
- Master's - Master of Arts
Campus Based - Website
- Flexible 30-36 semester hour program
- Thesis or report completion options
- Language or methods proficiency required
- Two required first-year seminars
- Independent research focus
College Station, TX
Texas A & M University-College Station
- Bachelor's - Geography - BS
Campus Based - Website
- Interdisciplinary degree approach
- Geospatial methods training
- Flexible double major options
- 120 total semester credit hours
- Career-ready spatial analysis skills
- Master's - Master of Science in Geography
Campus Based - Website
- 32-36 credit hours
- Thesis and non-thesis options
- Full-time study in four semesters
- Prepares for Ph.D. or careers
- Bachelor's degree required
Denton, TX
University of North Texas
- Master's - M.S. in Geography
Campus Based - Website
- 2-3 years to complete
- 36 credit hours required
- On-campus format
- Professional and research tracks
- Specializations available
- Research and teaching experience
- Internship opportunities
- Specialized laboratories
- Master's - M.S. in Geography
Concentration: Applied Geomorphology - Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- 2-3 years to complete
- 36 credit hours
- Concentration in Applied Geomorphology
- Research and teaching experience
- Internship opportunities
- Specialized laboratories available
- Thesis and non-thesis options
- Master's - M.S. in Geography
Concentration: GIS & Remote Sensing - Campus Based - Website
- Concentration in GIS & Remote Sensing
- 36 credit hours required
- Completion in 2-3 years
- On-campus format
- State-of-the-art laboratories
- Expert faculty guidance
- Focus on societal challenges
- Advanced spatial problem-solving
Houston, TX
University of Houston-Clear Lake
- Bachelor's - Geography B.S. with Social Studies 7-12 Certification
Concentration: Social Studies 7-12 Certification - Campus Based - Website
- Prepares for 7-12 teaching certification.
- Focus on urban, economic, social geography.
- Combines content knowledge with teaching strategies.
- Admission based on UHCL criteria.
- Cost varies by residency status.
- Curriculum fosters global understanding.
- Bachelor's - Geography B.S.
Campus Based - Website
- Focus on human geography.
- Emphasis on geospatial technologies.
- Field and technical training included.
- Proficiency in GIS.
- Tailored study plans available.
- Prepares for diverse careers.
- Admission for various student types.
- Detailed degree requirements online.
Huntsville, TX
Sam Houston State University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts, Major Geography
Concentration: Environment, Culture, and Development - Campus Based - Website
- 120-122 total credit hours
- Two degree options: BA/BS
- Field study opportunities worldwide
- Geospatial technology training
- Diverse career pathway potential
- Interdisciplinary learning approach
- Multiple concentration options
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science, Major Geography
Concentration: Environment, Culture, and Development - Campus Based - Website
- Focus on sustainable development.
- Hands-on GIS experience.
- Courses in meteorology, hydrology.
- Prepares for environmental careers.
- Requires 2.0 GPA for admission.
- Financial aid options available.
- Comprehensive environmental curriculum.
- Blends human and physical geography.
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science, Major Geography
Concentration: Geo-spatial Information Sciences - Campus Based - Website
- BS in Geography
- Geo-spatial Information Sciences concentration
- Campus-based program
- 120 credit hours
- Includes GIS programming
- Remote sensing coursework
- Hands-on projects
- Focus on sustainability
Lubbock, TX
Texas Tech University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Geography and the Environment
Campus Based - Website
- BA in Geography and the Environment
- Focus on GIS and remote sensing
- Hands-on research experience
- Undergraduate certificate in GIST
- Minor in Geographic Information Science
- State-of-the-art facilities
- Research assistantships available
- Teaching assistantships for grads
- Master's - Master of Science in Geography and the Environment
Campus Based - Website
- Focus on GIS and remote sensing.
- Teaching assistantships available.
- Research assistantships offered.
- State-of-the-art facilities.
- Tuition waivers for assistants.
Nacogdoches, TX
Stephen F. Austin State University
- Bachelor's - Geography
Campus Based - Website
- Bachelor of Arts or Science
- Focus on human-environment interaction
- Diverse career options
- Geographic information systems coursework
- Minor available
- Located in diverse Texas ecosystem
- Interdisciplinary education
- Cartography skills development
Richardson, TX
The University of Texas at Dallas
- Bachelor's - Education (BA) with 7-12 Social Studies (Geography Concentration)
Concentration: Geography - Campus Based - Website
- 120 semester credit hours
- Texas teacher certification path
- Comprehensive social studies focus
- Practical classroom experiences
- Interdisciplinary curriculum approach
- Educational technology integration
- Diverse geography concentration
- Accredited teacher preparation program
San Antonio, TX
The University of Texas at San Antonio
- Master's - Master of Arts in Geography and Environmental Sustainability
Campus Based - Website
- 36 credit hours total
- Thesis and non-thesis options
- Professional development opportunities
- Advanced research design skills
- Comprehensive exam required
- Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
- Internship and conference participation
- Specialized elective courses
San Marcos, TX
Texas State University
- Bachelor's - Geography
Campus Based - Website
- Two degree options: B.A. and B.S.
- Multiple geography majors available
- Six potential major concentrations
- Five minor options
- Located in College of Liberal Arts
- Campus-based undergraduate program
- Bachelor's - Geography
Concentration: General Geography - Campus Based - Website
- Bachelor of Arts option
- Bachelor of Science option
- Campus-based program
- General Geography concentration
- Multiple minors available
- Academic advising support
- Hands-on learning opportunities
- Research opportunities
- Bachelor's - Geography
Concentration: Physical Geography - Campus Based - Website
- Bachelor of Arts and Science options.
- Focus on Physical Geography.
- Campus-based program.
- Competitive tuition costs.
- Fieldwork opportunities included.
- Expert faculty guidance.
- Career-focused curriculum.
- Supportive learning environment.
- Master's - Geography (M.A.Geo./M.S.)
Campus Based - Website
- 30-33 credit hours
- Thesis or research paper
- Online options available
- No GRE required
- 3.0 or 3.2 GPA needed
- Research and teaching opportunities
- Nationally recognized faculty
- Flexible graduate degree plans
Choose the Right Geography School for You: A Texas Program Guide
Selecting the right geography program in Texas requires careful consideration of your academic goals, career aspirations, learning preferences, and financial situation. Texas offers an exceptional range of geography education opportunities across its major metropolitan areas and university towns, from affordable state universities to prestigious research institutions. Here’s a comprehensive analysis to help you determine which program aligns best with your objectives.
Consider Your Academic Level and Career Goals
Choose for Undergraduate Studies:
- Sam Houston State University – Most affordable option ($7,400-$11,100 in-state) with specialized GIS concentration
- Texas State University – Flexible BA/BS options with multiple concentrations
- Texas Tech University – Strong GIS and remote sensing emphasis with research opportunities
- Texas A&M University – Prestigious research university with interdisciplinary approach
- Stephen F Austin State University – Interdisciplinary program in diverse Texas ecosystem
Choose for Graduate Studies:
- University of Texas at Austin – Top-ranked MA program with flexible thesis/report options
- Texas A&M University – Comprehensive MS program with PhD preparation
- Texas State University – No GRE required, online options available
- University of North Texas – Multiple specialization tracks with advanced labs
- Texas Tech University – GIS focus with assistantship opportunities
Choose for Teaching Careers:
- University of Texas at Dallas – 7-12 Social Studies teaching certification
- University of Houston-Clear Lake – Geography with teaching certification options
Evaluate Your Financial Situation
Most Affordable Options (In-State):
- Sam Houston State University – $7,400-$11,100 annually (undergraduate)
- Texas Tech University – $7,600-$11,400 annually (graduate)
- Texas State University – $7,900-$11,900 annually (graduate)
Best Value Considerations:
- Graduate assistantships available at Texas Tech and University of North Texas
- Tuition waivers offered through research/teaching assistantships
- Public universities provide excellent value for Texas residents
- Flexible payment options and financial aid availability varies by institution
Premium Research Options:
- University of Texas at Austin – Flagship research university prestige
- Texas A&M University – Major research university with extensive resources
Match Your Learning Preferences and Specializations
Technology and GIS Focus:
- Sam Houston State University – Geo-spatial Information Sciences concentration
- Texas Tech University – Strong emphasis on GIS, remote sensing, and global positioning
- University of North Texas – GIS & Remote Sensing specialization with cutting-edge labs
- University of Houston-Clear Lake – Strong GIS focus for defense and transportation sectors
Environmental and Physical Geography:
- Texas State University – Physical Geography concentration with fieldwork opportunities
- Sam Houston State University – Environment, Culture, and Development focus
- Texas Tech University – Geography and the Environment program
- University of Texas at San Antonio – Environmental Sustainability emphasis
Human Geography and Social Issues:
- Texas A&M University – Comprehensive human and physical geography approach
- University of Texas at Austin – Interdisciplinary study with spatial relationships focus
- Stephen F Austin State University – Human-environment interactions emphasis
Consider Program Structure and Flexibility
Most Flexible Options:
- Texas State University – Online options available, no GRE required for graduate programs
- University of Texas at Austin – Choice between thesis (30 hours) or report track (36 hours)
- Texas A&M University – Both thesis and non-thesis graduate options
- University of North Texas – Professional and research tracks available
Accelerated and Specialized Pathways:
- Texas A&M University – Four-semester full-time completion for master’s
- Texas Tech University – Undergraduate certificate in Geographic Information Science and Technology
- University of Texas at Dallas – Teacher certification integrated with geography
Research Opportunities:
- University of Texas at Austin – Independent research focus with experienced faculty
- Texas Tech University – Research assistantships with tuition waivers
- University of North Texas – Specialized laboratories and Thesis Boot Camp
- Sam Houston State University – Field study opportunities worldwide
Geographic and Campus Considerations
Major Metropolitan Areas:
- University of Texas at Austin – State capital with government internship opportunities
- University of Houston-Clear Lake – Houston area with energy and transportation industry connections
- University of Texas at Dallas – Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex opportunities
- University of Texas at San Antonio – Growing South Texas metropolitan area
University Town Experience:
- Texas A&M University (College Station) – Traditional college town atmosphere
- Texas State University (San Marcos) – Between Austin and San Antonio
- Stephen F Austin State University (Nacogdoches) – East Texas forest region
- University of North Texas (Denton) – North Texas suburban setting
Specialized Regional Advantages:
- Stephen F Austin State University – Access to diverse Texas ecosystems
- Texas Tech University – West Texas arid lands research opportunities
- Sam Houston State University – East Texas cultural and environmental diversity
Admission Requirements and Accessibility
Most Accessible Graduate Programs:
- Texas State University – No GRE required, 3.0-3.2 GPA needed
- University of Texas at Austin – No entrance exam required
- University of North Texas – No entrance exam required
- Texas A&M University – No entrance exam mentioned
Undergraduate Admission Considerations:
- Texas A&M University – Requires SAT or ACT scores
- Texas Tech University – Requires ACT or SAT scores
- Sam Houston State University – Holistic review without explicit test requirements
- Stephen F Austin State University – Flexible admission requirements
Specialization Tracks and Concentrations
Choose if you want Environmental Focus:
- Sam Houston State University – Environment, Culture, and Development concentration
- Texas Tech University – Geography and the Environment program
- University of Texas at San Antonio – Environmental Sustainability focus
- Texas State University – Physical Geography with environmental applications
Choose if you want Technology Emphasis:
- Sam Houston State University – Geo-spatial Information Sciences concentration
- Texas Tech University – Minor in Geographic Information Science and Technology
- University of North Texas – GIS & Remote Sensing specialization
- University of Houston-Clear Lake – Strong geospatial technologies focus
Choose if you want Teaching Preparation:
- University of Texas at Dallas – 7-12 Social Studies teaching certification
- University of Houston-Clear Lake – Geography with teaching certification
- Stephen F Austin State University – Education career preparation
Quick Decision Framework
Choose University of Texas at Austin if: You want top-tier graduate education with research flexibility and prestigious reputation
Choose Sam Houston State University if: You want the most affordable option with strong GIS training and environmental focus
Choose Texas State University if: You want flexible graduate options without GRE requirements and diverse concentration choices
Choose Texas Tech University if: You want strong technology focus with research assistantship opportunities
Choose Texas A&M University if: You want prestigious research university experience with comprehensive program options
Choose University of North Texas if: You want specialized tracks with advanced laboratory facilities
Choose Stephen F Austin State University if: You want interdisciplinary approach in a unique ecological setting
Choose University of Houston-Clear Lake if: You want practical GIS skills in a major metropolitan area
Choose UT Dallas if: You want teaching certification combined with geography expertise
Choose UT San Antonio if: You want environmental sustainability focus in a growing metropolitan area
Making Your Final Decision
The best Texas geography program for you depends on balancing your academic goals, financial constraints, learning preferences, and career aspirations. Texas’s size and diversity mean you have access to programs in major metropolitan areas, traditional college towns, and unique ecological regions, each offering distinct advantages.
Consider visiting campuses when possible, speaking with current students and faculty, and reviewing specific course offerings and research opportunities. Texas’s strong job market in energy, technology, urban planning, and environmental consulting provides excellent career prospects for geography graduates across the state.
Remember that Texas’s geographic diversity – from coastal plains to deserts, major cities to rural areas – provides unparalleled opportunities for field study and research across virtually every subdiscipline of geography.