The PhD in Geography is an advanced degree with a program made up of coursework, comprehensive exams and a major research investigation. Students are expected to be grounded in one or more of the geography program’s three areas of specialization: environmental geography, geographic information science and human geography.
In the doctoral program, we seek a close alignment between an applicant’s proposed area of investigation and faculty expertise. Applicants are required to list the names of potential advisors in their application and therefore should contact faculty in their proposed area of specialization before applying. The PhD requires 28 hours of academic credit and typically takes four years of full-time study. Refer to PhD in Geography Plan of Study. A limited number of the required courses may be waived if the student has already completed an equivalent course and can demonstrate proficiency with the material.
Your first step to becoming a Mountaineer is applying for admission. Our online application makes the process as convenient as possible.
Want to know more about WVU? Fill out the Request Information form to learn about the endless possibilities we offer.