Majors at the University of Connecticut

Geography

Geography is a field of study that investigates the surface of the earth as the scene of human activity. Because our living environment has its origins in physical processes and human activities, geographers are trained in both the natural and social sciences to examine how our environments shape us and how we, in turn, shape them. The methods of geography provide us with systems for converting geographic data about unique places on the earth's surface into information that can be used for decision-making. An important feature of the geography major is its strong emphasis on the teaching and learning of skills and techniques of geographical analysis. An undergraduate degree in geography provides an excellent background for students who will be moving on to a professional degree program and certification in urban and regional planning. The undergraduate program also provides students with the background needed to pursue graduate degrees in geography and related fields. (UConn's Geography Website)

Academic Department

• UConn's Geography Department

Nature of Work

The nature of work varies depending on educational track chosen by each individual. UConn has three different tracks which include: Human Geography, Physical and Environmental Systems, and Geographic Information Systems. No matter what track is chosen, people working in geography work on issues ranging from climate change to ethnic conflict to urban sprawl; and work in fields ranging from geography to business, land use planning, law, and medicine.

Sample Job Titles

Potential Employers

We live in a rapidly changing society. Geography's concepts and methods for studying social and environmental changes prepare students earning the B.A. for a wide range of careers in business, planning, government, and teaching. Private sector firms need geographers to select locations for capital investment, determine market or service areas, meet environmental impact standards, and develop effective strategies for organizational planning. Geographers employed at all levels of government work in teams with individuals trained in other fields. Many geographers work for one of the Federal mapping agencies, the Bureau of the Census, the intelligence agencies, the Department of State, the U.S. Geological Survey, the U.S. Agency for International Development, or the Department of Health and Human Services. (UConn's Geography Website)

Useful Skills

The skills of a geographer are very specialized. Depending on a student’s track of study, different skills are emphasized. However there are some skills that all geography majors should have or acquire prior to graduation. These include research and technical skills. Of technical skills, students should be able to manipulate, display, and analyze spatial information. Beside skills acquired through academics students should possess skills in effective communication, writing, organization, and planning.

Getting Experience

The Geography Department offers internships that may be included as part of the undergraduate major program. Internships provide seniors an opportunity to apply their geographic training in state and local government, and private industry. Besides internships, working within a related field, participating in a job shadowing program, a co-op, or volunteer work will give students practical experience. The chance to apply this knowledge also makes the student more marketable, and perhaps aids in narrowing the search for a post-graduation job.

Employment Opportunities

The potential to practice geography has grown in private enterprise and in the government over recent years. Public sector employment possibilities can be found within environmental agencies for the federal, state and local government; from the National Parks Service to the Bureau of Land Management. There are also many job opportunities at the state government level. Some examples of state agencies include the Environmental Protection, Parks and Recreation, Water Resources, Public Utilities, and Coastal Zone Management. The private sector also offers employment opportunities. The best place to start the job search is within the environmental industry. Many businesses are making the change to become environmentally friendly. In order to do this, many environmental job opportunities are opened up. Other places one could practice geography are within law and medicine. These fields often require a geography specialist, so pursuing a job within these fields is also a good place to look.

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