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Geography is the scientific study of the distribution of both physical and human features of the Earth’s surface. Geographers seek to describe, relate and explain the natural and cultural phenomena that distinguish places around the world. Geographers focus upon “where” and “why” questions concerning the global environment. Geography also functions as a bridge between the natural sciences; its perspective on the location of phenomena makes it unique among the academic disciplines. The process of change is a fundamental theme in geography and the examination of how humankind modifies the Earth is a continual emphasis. The study of geography is thus of vital concern to all citizens and provides graduates with numerous career opportunities in business, education and government.

Is it for you?
This program will be a good fit if you:
  • Have a genuine curiosity about the world.
  • Enjoy both the hard sciences and social sciences.
  • Like to learn about different places and cultures.
  • Like working with technology.
  • Are a problem solver and analytical thinker.
Career Opportunities
Explore possible career opportunities with this degree:
  • Geographic information systems (GIS) analyst
  • Urban planner
  • Teacher
  • Tourism planner
  • Land manager
Recent Employers
Graduates have gone on to work at employers such as:
  • Marshall Area Chamber of Commerce/Tracy Economic Development Authority
  • City/County of Brookings
  • City of Sioux Falls
  • Sioux Falls Public Schools
  • Sioux Valley Energy
Internship Opportunities
We have provided the following internship opportunities:
  • National Park Service
  • City/County of Brookings
  • City of Sioux Falls
  • Minnehaha County Highway Department
  • Game, Fish, and Parks (Sioux Falls)
Clubs & Organizations
We offer the following extracurricular clubs to participate in:
  • Geography Club
Suggested Certificates
Unmanned Aircraft Systems Teacher and Students
Uncrewed Aircraft Systems Certificate (Undergraduate)
US Map lit Up
Geographic Information Sciences Certificate (Undergraduate)
View of the US Capitol building.
Lobbying and Government Advocacy Certificate (Undergraduate)
Leading meeting
Public Service Certificate (Undergraduate)
Suggested Minors
Image of the earth with connecting network points.
Geospatial Intelligence Minor
Map Stock Image
Geographic Information Sciences Minor
Informatics Minor Students
Informatics Minor
Black and grey map of the world
Global Studies Minor
Political Science Students Discussion
Political Science Minor
Aerospace Studies
Aerospace Studies Minor
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Military Science Minor
Sustainability Stock Photo
Sustainability Minor
Land Valuation & Rural Real Estate Students in Field
Land Valuation and Rural Real Estate Minor
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Uncrewed Aircraft Systems Minor
Suggested Dual Majors
Student working on computer.
Geographic Information Sciences (B.S.)
Suggested Accelerated Programs
Graduate Research Image
Geography (M.S.) - Geographic Information Sciences Specialization