The UW-Parkside Geography Department
Where Understanding the World is Exciting
Are you a potential geographer? YOU ARE if you’re interested in planning the best use of land, protecting ecosystems, analyzing satellite images, recognizing cultural differences, designing maps or understanding international trade. 
Do you want to help the poor, save endangered species, teach social studies, or slow soil erosion? IF YES, then you should study geography at UW-Parkside.
Geography is a dynamic, technical field useful and applicable in today’s modern, complex world. Geography is interdisciplinary because it combines both social and physical sciences. If geography sounds right for you, choose a major in geography at UW-Parkside. We need you because geographers MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Academic Options
Geography Major
If you want a liberal arts understanding of the world or wish to become an elementary or high school teacher, this program is right for you. The general major features a broad background in geography including the physical, human, and technical aspects.
Major with a Concentration in Planning
Urban planning seeks to guide development in order to reduce sprawl and congestion, protect the environment, and enhance the quality of life in an area. You’ll learn about land use, transportation, politics, and population changes.
Major with a Concentration in Applied Environmental Geography
Learn about landform processes, plant and animal dynamics, soils, environmental issues, and how climate affects humans and nature. Prepare for a career as a resource manager or environmental technician.
Certificate in Geographic Information Systems
Geographic Information Systems, or GIS, is a powerful data-collection, analysis, and management tool used in a variety of government and business applications. You’ll learn how to apply GIS software packages to real-world examples.
Excellent Faculty and Facilities
Faculty
The geography professors are outstanding teachers who will interest you, challenge you, and help you succeed. Geography is a student-friendly department. Gain real-world experience through internships and involvement in faculty research and community-service projects.
Facilities
The Spatial Data Analysis Lab contains 10 work stations. GIS, remote sensing, and statistical software from ESRI, IDRISI and other leading sources are available. Work in the Soils Lab or the Biogeography Lab. Learn about soil sampling techniques or analyze tree rings in dendrochronology research.
Other Keys to Success
Participate in the activities of Geography Club.
Combine geography with a teacher certification program.
Assist with Geography Bowl.
Go to graduate school.
Let the UW-Parkside Geography Department help you find your place in the world.
