Geography
Geography is the integrative study of places, environmental processes and human
activities across the globe. Think about it -- everything happens somewhere!
In 1998, 2003, 2008, and 2013 the Geography MA and PhD programs were designated a
University System of West Virginia Board of Governors Program of Excellence.
This award is given to a small select group of academic programs in universities
in the state of West Virginia in recognition of their extensive and high quality
contribution to higher education in the state.
The geography program provides students with the knowledge and skills needed
to analyze the variation in human activity that exists among places, regions and
countries. This knowledge allows geographers, for example, to explain why some
places are more or less developed than others, to suggest ways in which development
can be planned and to examine the relationship between the natural environment
and human activities.
Careers in Geography
Our graduates are qualified for careers
in both the private and public sectors. In industry, geographers are hired
as geographic information system analysts, business location researchers, environmental
impact consultants, market analysts and cartographers. In government, geographers
can work as local urban planners, regional and state economic development specialists,
environmental and resource development analysts, land-use planners, international
development agency advisors, teachers and trainers, researchers, cartographers
and geographic information system analysts. Some graduates may also use their
training to pursue careers as environmental or community activists in nonprofit
organizations. Finally, many geography students go on to graduate school to obtain
further training, most commonly in geography or planning, but also in fields
as diverse as law, information science and environmental studies.