Bachelor of Arts in Geography
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Geographers are uniquely prepared to meet the rapidly evolving demands of today’s industries, public agencies, and nonprofit organizations. They pride themselves on their ability to see the world from the big-picture perspective, understanding how people, places, and phenomena interact with each other across space and time.
Graduate with a degree in geography and you’ll be prepared to work in any industry where it is vital to consider spatial relationships. Employers are looking for graduates who are skilled in asking questions, acquiring information, exploring, and analyzing data. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, median wages in the geography field were $81,970 in 2019. Even the lowest paid 25 percent made $63,300 annually, far exceeding the median wages for all income earners.
Geography majors must complete an experiential learning requirement. All programs must be related to Geography and be approved by the department. Program options include undergraduate research with faculty on campus, a field study or internship off-campus with a public or private organization, or a Virginia Tech certified Study Abroad. The department offers opportunities to study during the winter term in Antarctica or New Zealand, plus a semester at the University of Dundee in Scotland is also available.
Considering Geography?
If you are interested in majoring in geography but not quite sure, consider taking one or more of these entry-level courses. They are all required to earn a major or minor in geography, but work as electives in any major within the university.
B.A. in Geography
· Course descriptions in the undergraduate catalog.
· Degree requirements (find checksheets for Geography)
· Current course offerings can be found on the Time Table of Classes
Required classes
· GEOG 1004 – Introduction to Human Geography (CLE and Pathways credit approved)
· GEOG 1014 – World Regions (CLE and Pathways credit approved)
· GEOG 1104 – Introduction to Physical Geography
Here is a suggested four-year course plan for the B.A. in Geography.
Field Experience Requirement
Students must register for and earn three credits of a required field experience to graduate. The field typically includes a minimum of 150 hours and can be satisfied in the following ways:
1. Study Abroad
2. Undergraduate Research (GEOG 4994)
3. Field Study (i.e. Internship) (GEOG 2964 of GEOG 4964)
More details on the field experience requirement are available here.
For more information contact:
Julie Burger
Undergraduate Academic Advisor
Department of Geography
138 Cheatham Hall
Phone: (540) 231-6886
Email: jcburger@vt.edu