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.
Quick facts
Next start date: 07/02/2025
Total classes: 40
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 120
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.
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:
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)
Climate Change Analyst
Conservation Officer
Environmental Compliance Inspector
Environmental Restoration Planner
Farm Manager
Geographic Information Systems Analyst (GIS Analyst)
Geographic Information Systems Technician (GIS Technician)
Hydrogeologist
Learn from professionals in the sciences
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.
Learn from professionals in the sciences
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
first-year student
You’re considered a first-year student for application purposes if you’ve never attended college or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours.
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.
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.
31,572
students enrolled as of fall 2024
$161 million
in research expenditures in FY23
21
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.
