Online Bachelor of Science in Geography

Explore the connections between human settlement and the features of Earth’s surface in Arizona State University’s online Bachelor of Science in geography program. In this program, you’ll examine the spatial patterns of the world while learning about the people who inhabit it. Upon graduation, you’ll be prepared for careers in urban planning, consulting, research and more.

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Quick facts

Next start date:

Next start date: 05/16/2024


Total classes:

Total classes: 40

Weeks per class:

Weeks per class: 7.5

Total credit hours:

Total credit hours: 120

Degree questions, answered.

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What you’ll learn in this Bachelor of Science in geography program

Learn to see the world through the twin lenses of space and place with this online geography degree. You’ll graduate with a better understanding of the world around you by studying Earth’s surfaces, including landforms, water, plants, weather and climate.

The interdisciplinary nature of this program allows for the application of physical geography, cultural geography, geographic information science and urban planning. Through innovative coursework, research projects and employment opportunities, you’ll learn how people and the environment interact on the earth’s surface and how cities are planned for success.

What can I do with an online geography degree?

 

This program enables you to pursue a range of careers related to restoration, research, activism, management and more. The variety of career paths graduates pursue varies depending on if they focus on natural science, social science or environmental science aspects of geography.

For example, with a focus on geospatial techniques, you can become a geomorphologist, hydrology and water resource specialist, environmental impact assessment analyst or business location analyst. In contrast, by taking coursework in geographic information science in addition to physical geography coursework, you can pursue a career in the fields of geographic information systems or remote sensing analysis.

BA vs. BS in geography: Which is right for your career goals?

 

The Bachelor of Science in geography focuses on the technical and environmental aspects of geography. Career paths for graduates of the Bachelor of Science program favor roles in research, analysis and technology.

Whereas the Bachelor of Arts in geography looks at the field of geography through a more holistic lens. Rather than focusing on the more investigative aspect of geography, students primarily study the relationship between people and their environment. Career paths for graduates of the Bachelor of Arts program favor teaching, community development and planning roles.

Both of these bachelor’s degree can be completed as part of an Accelerated Master’s program. When accepted, you can earn a master’s degree in as little as one year after completing your undergraduate degree. This opportunity saves you time and money, while giving you advanced knowledge in your field. Applicable master’s degrees include:

Will my diploma say ‘online’?

No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”

Featured geography degree courses

You’ll take courses related to social science, mathematical reasoning, spatial analysis and more. You’ll also have the opportunity to choose from a variety of electives that focus on different geographic specialties, such as geospatial techniques or geographic information systems. This program concludes with a cumulative capstone project, in which you’ll conduct research on a topic of your choice. Featured courses include:


GPH 111: Introduction to Physical Geography (SCIT OR SQ)


GCU 102: Introduction to Human Geography (GCSI OR SB & G)


GPH 112: Introduction to Physical Geography Lab (SCIT OR SQ)


GIS 205: Geographic Information Science I (QTRS OR CS)


GCU 496: Geographic Research Methods (L)


GIS 270: Statistics for Geography and Planning


Jobs you can get with a geography degree

You’ll be prepared for geography careers focused on research, analysis and technology. Potential career paths for geography majors include, but aren’t limited to:

Cartographer (Map Maker)


Growth: 5.0 %
Salary: $71,890

Climate Change Analyst


Growth: 6.1 %
Salary: $76,480

Conservation Officer


Growth: -8.7 %
Salary: $32,270

Environmental Compliance Inspector


Growth: 4.6 %
Salary: $71,690

Environmental Restoration Planner


Growth: 6.1 %
Salary: $76,480

Fish and Game Warden


Growth: -6.3 %
Salary: $59,500

Geographic Information Systems Analyst (GIS Analyst)


Growth: 1.1 %
Salary: $88,900

Geographic Information Systems Technician (GIS Technician)


Growth: 9.7 %
Salary: $98,740

Hydrogeologist


Growth: 4.8 %
Salary: $144,440

Learn from professionals in the sciences

The School of Geographical Sciences and Urban Planning is home to nationally and internationally recognized thought leaders and innovators within the disciplines of geography and geographic information science. Our faculty includes:

  • Academia Europea Member.
  • American Association of Geographers Fellows.
  • Fulbright American Scholars.
  • U.S. National Academy of Sciences Members.

Learn from professionals in the sciences

The School of Geographical Sciences and Urban Planning is home to nationally and internationally recognized thought leaders and innovators within the disciplines of geography and geographic information science. Our faculty includes:

  • Academia Europea Member.
  • American Association of Geographers Fellows.
  • Fulbright American Scholars.
  • U.S. National Academy of Sciences Members.

How to apply

I am a future

You’re considered a first-year student for application purposes if you’ve never attended college or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours.

Learn how to apply.

Competency requirements

Additional admission requirements

High school equivalency

Homeschool

Don't meet admission requirements?

You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.

To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.

*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.

Don't meet admission requirements?

You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.

To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.

*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.

Earn your online geography degree from a leading interdisciplinary college

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences takes a transdisciplinary approach to education with a vast spectrum of degrees in the social sciences, natural sciences and humanities. We inspire students to be socially aware, critical thinkers and global citizens.

25,500+


currently enrolled students.

$140 million


in research expenditures in 2018.

23


interdisciplinary schools and departments.

95+


undergraduate degrees.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

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