Online Master of Arts in Geography
Arizona State University’s online Master of Arts in geography provides specialized academic and professional training in geography, allowing you to deepen your knowledge of the world and prepare for further specialization or immediate employment. In this program, you’ll focus on location—specifically the heart of geography, urban planning, climatology and GIS to develop research projects and solutions to geographical problems.
Quick facts
Next start date: 01/13/2025
Total classes: 10
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 30
The skills you’ll develop in this geography master’s program
You’ll deepen your understanding of the relationship between people and their environments while building valuable, versatile skills for your career. Through access to state-of-the-art research centers and collaboration with renowned faculty, you’ll enhance your expertise in research, teamwork and communication. Hands-on projects provide practical experience, including opportunities to contribute to faculty-led, grant-funded research in your areas of interest. Along the way, you’ll sharpen your problem-solving, adaptability and leadership skills, preparing you to make an impact on the pressing environmental and spatial challenges of our time.
Who’s a good candidate for this program?
This program is a great fit for individuals from diverse backgrounds who want to expand their understanding of the Earth and its systems. Ideal candidates may be mid-career professionals looking to build new skills or those exploring a career change. You might work in fields such as sustainability, teaching, the military, foreign services or mission work—all areas where understanding spatial relationships, places and cultures is valuable.
Please note: While this program provides a foundational introduction to geographic information systems (GIS), it’s more suited for those seeking a broad, interdisciplinary perspective on geography rather than an intensive focus on GIS.
How this program compares to a geographic information science (GIS) master’s
The key distinction between this program and a geographic information science (GIS) master’s is the level of specialization. This geography master’s offers a comprehensive understanding of geography topics, including politics, culture and human-environment interactions, with only introductory GIS content.
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.”
Online geography master’s courses
In this program, you’ll take a diverse range of courses designed to prepare you for various roles in geography. You’ll explore key topics such as research methods, spatial statistics, GIS methods, urban planning and climate change. With the flexibility to choose electives, you can tailor your coursework to align with your interests. This program culminates with a capstone project or thesis, allowing you to dive deeper into specific areas of geography most relevant to your career goals.
The jobs this geography master’s prepares you for
Upon graduation, you’ll be prepared for a wide range of career opportunities in both public and private sectors, including education, government agencies and research facilities. Many graduates also choose to pursue doctoral degrees. Whether you decide to further your education or step into the workforce, this program provides the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in various industries. Career examples include, but aren’t limited to:
Experienced instructors dedicated to informing future educators
As a part of The College of Liberal Arts and 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.
Experienced instructors dedicated to informing future educators
As a part of The College of Liberal Arts and 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
Applicants of the Master of Arts in geography program must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
The largest and most diverse college at ASU
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 become socially aware critical thinkers and global citizens.
25,500+
currently enrolled students.
$170 million
in research expenditures in 2022.
23
interdisciplinary schools and departments.
100+
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.
