Bachelor of Science [B.S] [Geography] From Western Illinois University

Program of Study

Knowledge of geography helps us understand the characteristics of space, location, and place in the broader context of how people interact with both physical and human environments. Geographers identify and analyze the global patterns that shape our lives. Thus, Geography is unique as it straddles the social sciences (human) and natural sciences (physical), making it a highly interdisciplinary discipline. A number of topics can be studied under geography, including population, health, economics, transportation, location analysis, climates, landforms, vegetation, soils, and water, to mention a few. Geographers employ a number of techniques, including Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, aerial photo interpretation, and spatial statistical analysis. The robust curriculum is applied based, with specializations in physical, human, urban and regional planning, and geospatial technologies.

Career opportunities are found in both the public and private sectors. Most notable are disaster response companies, transportation firms, land-use planning agencies, GIS-related professions, historic preservation firms, construction companies, real estate firms, international business, location analysis firms, architectural firms, and wind energy/sustainable energy companies. In addition to the Bachelor of Science in Geography degree, the department also offers minors in Geography, GIS, and Meteorology. An integrated baccalaureate and master?s degree program is available for the B.S. in Geography. Outstanding students can earn both degrees in five years.

Faculty

The Department of Geography, established in 1917, has earned a national reputation for excellence. All Geography courses are taught by faculty members holding doctoral degrees from distinguished universities across the United States. The faculty members offer a broad range of competencies, thus providing excellent scope for students with different inclinations and talents.