Central to Mapping the Future.
Central’s BA in Geography prepares students for careers in urban planning, environmental sustainability, social science teaching, business/tourism, and Geographic Information Sciences (GIS). Students receive a holistic, liberal education that integrates the study of human activity and the natural environment. Graduates have developed the skills for jobs that address real life community concerns, environmental issues, and systems that impact people’s economic, political, social, and spatial needs. Students train for and excel in careers with a conscience.
Program Features
- Coursework that challenges and improves students’ understanding of topics leading to well-paid positions after graduation
- Specialized tracks allow students to pursue education in individual interests while still learning employable skills
- Opportunities for hands-on applied field work, internships, and courses abroad
- Faculty who are experts in their field guide, mentor, and advise students throughout the program
- Small department with a welcoming environment
- Small class sizes
- Financial aid and scholarships available
- Free on-campus child care available
Geography at Central
While most people think of geography as naming places on Jeopardy!, a degree in Geography prepares you for much more. The fields of urban planning, environmental, sustainability, social science teaching, and Geographic Information Sciences (GIS) applications all come under the purview of a professional geographer. Students receive a holistic, liberal education that integrates the study of human activity and the natural environment. Founded in 1969, Central Connecticut State University has the largest Geography Department of any institution of higher education in New England. Our courses and research examine interaction within and between the biosphere, atmosphere, lithosphere, and hydrosphere. In addition to lecture oriented courses, we also provide field-oriented, applied, and hands-on experiences throughout Connecticut and in far away lands. We strive to provide our students with a friendly, well-supported learning environment that trains them to be top scientists as well as citizens of the world.
Programs in Geography
Minors
- Environmental Geography & Sustainability
- Geography
- Geography with Specialization in Planning
- Geographic Information Sciences
- Tourism
- Social Studies (offered in conjunction with other departments)
Graduate
Geography, MS with the following specializations:
- General Program
- Specialization in Global Sustainability
Each graduate student's planned program of study is custom-designed to provide the best possible preparation for the career or future PhD study chosen by the student. Students enrolled in the M.S. in Geography program may emphasize any of the following areas:
- Environmental studies
- Cultural and world regional geography
- Urban and regional planning
- Computer mapping or geographic information systems
- Travel and tourism
Students gain an understanding of the impact of human interactions on the environment. Graduates are prepared for careers in resource management, environmental & sustainable planning, outdoor/environmental education, environmental assessment/monitoring/restoration, and air/water/soil pollution prevention.
Provides a broad overview of the discipline of Geography and what it has to offer. BS is designed for students pursuing a career in teaching. BA is a great option for those who want a little bit of everything Geography has to offer.
Prepares students for careers in Geographic Information System (GIS) Mapping and Remote Sensing (RS), as well as their applications in fields like planning, marketing, crime mapping, health, environmental protection, and natural resources management.
Equips students for jobs as town or city planners with municipalities, as regional planners for regional councils of government, and for positions at state agencies, non-profits, and private consulting firms. Introduces students to the historical, legal, and applied contexts of planning in the United States and Connecticut, as well as subfields of planning, such as transportation planning, urban design, environmental planning, and economic development.
Prepares students to work in municipal, state, and federal agencies for positions such as planning, parks and recreation, ecotourism/nature-based tourism, cultural/historical tourism, and tourism development.