Vermont Geography Degree Programs

University of Vermont

Burlington, VT

https://www.uvm.edu/cas/geography

The University of Vermont’s Department of Geography and Geosciences provides a robust educational foundation for understanding the intricate relationships between natural and human environments.

This program prepares students to address critical global challenges, including climate change, water resources, and environmental health.

Programs Offered

The department offers both a Bachelor of Arts in Geography and a Master of Science in Geology, each emphasizing hands-on learning and faculty-led research in diverse areas, from geomorphology to geochemistry.

Undergraduate courses are structured at various levels, with foundational, intermediate, and advanced classes that incorporate fieldwork, community partnerships, and research projects.

Interdisciplinary Opportunities

The department actively participates in interdisciplinary minors, such as Geospatial Technologies and Environmental Studies, to enhance students’ understanding of spatial analysis and environmental issues.

These interdisciplinary programs provide students with a broader perspective and a well-rounded academic experience.

Master’s Program in Geology

For Master’s students, the Geology program includes rigorous coursework and a research thesis that covers topics such as paleoclimatology, structural geology, and hydrology.

Graduate students work closely with faculty advisors to design research projects, participate in field and lab work, and gain expertise in scientific presentation and publication.

Commitment to Inclusivity and Accessibility

The Department of Geography and Geosciences is committed to accessibility and inclusivity, ensuring all students can fully engage in the learning process.

It offers the close-knit, small-class experience typical of a liberal arts college, paired with the vast resources of a major research institution.

Career Readiness

Graduates from the program are equipped to pursue impactful careers in fields related to geography and geology, contributing to the broader scientific understanding of Earth’s processes and addressing global challenges.

The department’s dedication to practical learning and research prepares students to make meaningful contributions to society and the environment.

Middlebury College

MIddlebury, VA

https://www.middlebury.edu/college/academics/geography

The Geography Department at Middlebury College offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding human and physical interactions on Earth.

Emphasizing human geography, the department provides a strong foundation in geographic theory, along with hands-on training in geospatial methods, such as GIS and cartography, preparing students for careers in a variety of fields.

Why Study Geography?

Middlebury’s geography program is ideal for students fascinated by maps, human interactions across space and time, and the influence of political, economic, and cultural factors on human activity.

The program goes beyond traditional memorization of locations; it addresses real-world challenges, analyzing how landscapes are shaped by and shape human behaviors at local, regional, and global levels.

Learning Opportunities

The department offers numerous research opportunities, including internships with government agencies and nonprofits, and encourages students to conduct independent research projects.

Geography majors can deepen their learning through faculty mentorship and collaboration on research projects that have real-world applications.

Research and Internship Support

Through research internships and self-directed projects, geography students apply their academic knowledge to practical settings. These experiences enrich their education and enhance their readiness for post-graduate careers or advanced studies.

Advanced Facilities and Equipment

Middlebury’s Geography Department manages four laboratories equipped with technology for digital cartography, GIS, and remote sensing, providing students with the tools necessary for hands-on learning in geospatial analysis.

Study Abroad Opportunities

The department encourages geography majors to study abroad, allowing them to apply their knowledge in diverse cultural contexts.

Students work with advisors to select programs that align with their academic goals, with the option to count select courses abroad towards major requirements.

Career Paths for Alumni

Middlebury geography alumni have gone on to impactful careers, including roles with the U.S. Department of the Interior, National Geographic Society, and various environmental and geospatial organizations.

Alumni work in roles such as GIS specialists, environmental analysts, and cartographers, contributing to fields ranging from conservation to urban planning.

Major Requirements

The geography major includes a series of core and elective courses across introductory, intermediate, and advanced levels.

Students complete courses like “Human Geography with GIS,” and have the option to pursue senior research or a thesis for honors consideration, fostering in-depth exploration of topics in geography.

Honors and Senior Thesis

Students interested in honors work must meet GPA requirements and complete a substantive research project, culminating in a public presentation. This honors process encourages students to engage deeply with their area of interest and contribute original research to the field.

Study Abroad Guidelines

For students planning to study abroad, the department requires the completion of specific courses at Middlebury and recommends consultation with advisors to ensure alignment with the geography curriculum. This ensures that students gain relevant, cross-cultural experiences while staying on track with their major.