Academic Programs

students in classroomThe Department of Geography & the Environment at CSUF offers BA and MA degrees in Geography as well as a minor, a concentration in Environmental Analysis, a certificate in Geographic Information Systems, and a certificate in Geospatial Technologies. Students can take advantage of well-equipped labs with the latest Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing software. The Geography Internship Program provides an opportunity for students to explore career options or gain professional experience while earning academic credits.

The overall goals of the undergraduate program are outlined in the department's Statement of Learning Goals for the Undergraduate Degree in Geography. The BA degree includes work in human, physical and regional geography, as well as geographical techniques such as cartography and Geospatial Technology. Students looking to achieve a tighter focus in their undergraduate work may choose a formal course concentration in Environmental Analysis. If you would like more information about a BA or minor in Geography, please contact our Undergraduate Advisor, Dr. Mark Drayse, or check the Degree Requirements and Program Descriptions in the latest CSUF University Catalog.

The Geography MA degree includes a core of three required courses: Geographic Methods; Human Geography; Physical Geography. The core is supplemented by additional coursework at the 400 and 500 levels. To complete the degree, students choose between a thesis option or a comprehensive written examination. The list of theses and projects completed in the department highlights the range of topics that have interested graduate students over the years. If you would like more information about an MA in Geography, please contact our Graduate Advisor, Dr. Jonathan Taylor, or check the Degree Requirements and Program Descriptions in the latest CSUF University Catalog.