Online Bachelor of Science in Geography

In the bachelor of science in geography program, you'll explore the connections between human settlement and the features of Earth’s surface. As a geography major, 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: 05/16/2023


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 will I learn as a geography major?

As a geography major, you'll examine spatial patterns in natural science features, along with social and environmental science dynamics. Notable topics include:

  • Climate zones.
  • Earth's landforms.
  • Economic patterns.
  • Human populations.
  • Plant life.
  • Transportation.
  • Weather patterns.

What can I do with an online geography degree?

 

A degree in geography enables you to pursue a range of careers relating to restoration, research, activism, management and more. With a focus on geospatial techniques, many graduates go on to pursue career paths as geomorphologists or water resource specialists. Choosing to focus some coursework on geographic information science can also help open the door to careers in graphic information systems and remote sensing analysis.

What’s the difference between a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts in geography?

 

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.

Does my geography major 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.” That’s because ASU Online students learn from the same faculty and receive the same course content as in-person students receive.

Online geography degree courses

As a geography degree major, you’ll take courses related to social science, mathematical reasoning and spatial analysis. 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. Courses include:


GIS 205: Geographic Information Science I (CS)


GPH 112: Introduction to Physical Geography Lab (SQ)


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


GPH 111: Introduction to Physical Geography (SQ)


GCU 496: Geographic Research Methods (L)


GIS 270: Statistics for Geography and Planning


Potential career paths for geography majors

Online geography degree graduates are prepared for geography careers focused on research, analysis and technology. Potential career paths for geography majors include, but are not limited to:

Cartographer (Map Maker)


Growth: 4.5 %
Salary: $68,380

Climate Change Analyst


Growth: 7.8 %
Salary: $73,230

Conservation Officer


Growth: -0.5 %
Salary: $30,640

Environmental Compliance Inspector


Growth: 4.6 %
Salary: $71,100

Environmental Restoration Planner


Growth: 7.8 %
Salary: $73,230

Fish and Game Warden


Growth: 1.2 %
Salary: $58,040

Geographic Information Systems Analyst (GIS Analyst)


Growth: -1.2 %
Salary: $85,430

Geographic Information Systems Technician (GIS Technician)


Growth: 5.7 %
Salary: $92,870

Hydrogeologist


Growth: 4.8 %
Salary: $137,940

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.

Online geography degree admission requirements

I am a future

You are considered a first-year student for application purposes if you have not attended college at all, or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours (with a minimum 2.50 cumulative GPA).

1. Review competency requirements

2. Review other admission requirements

3. Complete online application

4. File your FAFSA

5. Request ACT or SAT scores

Don't meet admission requirements?

You can still gain admission to 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 the Earned Admission Pathway is right for you.

Don't meet admission requirements?

You can still gain admission to 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 the Earned Admission Pathway is right for you.

Earn your degree in geography 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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