Geography & Environmental Studies

MSC 01 1110
1 University of New Mexico
Albuquerque, NM 87131

Physical Location:
Bandelier West & East

Phone: (505)277-5041
Fax: (505)277-3614

Why Geography?

Geography offers an integrative perspective on the relations among social, political, economic, and physical phenomena in space and place. Geography describes and explains the past, present, and future locations and spatial patterns of humans and their settlements, cultural and economic traits, and natural environment and resources. Geographical research addresses important issues relating to the environment and how culture and nature are connected. The department’s programs focus on environmental studies, that is, human/environment interactions, natural resource policy and management, and legal geography and social justice; and Geographic Information Science (GIScience), that is, Geographic Information Systems, cartography and geovisualization, remote sensing, Global Positioning Systems (GPS), and spatial statistics.

What can I do with a degree in Geography?

Review General Information and Advice or skip to more specific information pertaining to our department's three major thematic areas...

  • Bachelor's degree qualifies you for entry-level positions in government and industry.
  • Master's degree qualifies you for community college teaching and advancement in industry and government.
  • Ph.D. may be required for research and teaching positions in colleges and universities and senior positions in government and industry.
  • Geography provides a broad foundation for a wide range of future career endeavors.
  • Obtain volunteer, part-time, summer, internship, or co-op experience in your area of interest.
  • Join professional organizations such as the Association of American Geographers or the National Council for Geographic Education.
  • Become a member of groups directed toward improvement of natural resources or environment and pollution control.
  • Maintain knowledge of current environmental issues including policy, conservation, and industry trends.
  • Obtain direct, relevant, thorough, and employable experience with geographic information systems.
  • Know how to design and make a map for any purpose.
  • Develop strong mathematical and statistical skills.
  • Develop skills and interest in mapping, graphics, and charts. An interest in photography may prove beneficial.
  • Develop good communication skills.
  • Learn a great deal more about the world and how it works than you already know