Department of Geographic and Environmental Sciences

What is Geographic and Environmental Sciences?

Geographic and Environmental Sciences is your gateway to understanding and solving the complex relationships between people, places and our changing planet. Our dynamic field empowers you to explore spatial and temporal connections while developing innovative solutions to pressing global challenges through cutting-edge research and experiential learning. You'll master geospatial technologies like GIS and remote sensing while tackling real-world problems from environmental sustainability to urban analytics and meteorological forecasting. 

Whether you're passionate about environmental change, cultural dynamics or urban planning, our specialized tracks prepare you for the fastest-growing careers of tomorrow. Here, your curiosity about the world transforms into the expertise and leadership that creates sustainable communities, protects our environment and builds resilient solutions for future generations.

Career Prospects

Where Science Meets Solutions for Our Changing World

Transform your passion for the environment into a career that tackles humanity's greatest challenges. Geographic and Environmental Sciences graduates don't just find jobs — they become the spatial analysts, climate researchers and sustainability strategists who map our future and protect our planet. With environmental awareness at an all-time high and geospatial technology revolutionizing industries, your education becomes the foundation for meaningful impact and professional growth.

Environmental Science and Sustainability Leadership 

Salary Range: $50,130-$134,830 
Lead the fight against climate change and environmental degradation through cutting-edge research and policy development. Your scientific training and analytical skills position you at the forefront of environmental protection, where data-driven solutions meet urgent global needs.

Career Opportunities:

• Environmental Scientist conducting field research and impact assessments
• Sustainability Manager developing corporate environmental strategies
• Environmental Consultant guiding businesses through regulatory compliance
• Climate Change Analyst modeling future environmental scenarios
• Conservation Scientist protecting natural resources and biodiversity
• Environmental Health Specialist ensuring safe communities
• Renewable Energy Analyst optimizing clean energy deployment

GIS and Geospatial Technology Innovation

Salary Range: $78,380-$185,000
Pioneer the digital mapping revolution that powers everything from navigation apps to disaster response. Your expertise in Geographic Information Systems makes you essential for organizations navigating an increasingly data-driven world where location intelligence drives decision-making.

Career Opportunities:

• GIS Analyst creating spatial solutions for complex problems
• Geospatial Data Scientist combining big data with geographic insights
• Remote Sensing Specialist analyzing satellite and drone imagery
• Cartographer designing maps and visualizations for digital platforms
• Location Intelligence Specialist optimizing business operations through spatial analysis
• Geodetic Surveyor ensuring precise measurements for infrastructure projects
• Geospatial Software Developer building next-generation mapping tools

Urban Planning and Smart Cities Development

Salary Range: $83,720-$120,000+ 
Shape the future of human settlements through innovative planning and technology integration. Your understanding of spatial relationships and environmental systems makes you essential for creating sustainable, livable communities in an urbanizing world.

Career Opportunities:

• Urban and Regional Planner designing sustainable communities
• Transportation Planner optimizing mobility systems and infrastructure
• Smart Cities Specialist integrating technology with urban development
• Climate Resilience Planner preparing communities for environmental change
• Housing Policy Analyst addressing urban development challenges
• Community Development Specialist fostering neighborhood revitalization
• Land Use Planner balancing development with environmental protection

Federal Government and National Security

Salary Range: $55,000-$150,000+
Serve your country through critical roles in environmental protection, national security and scientific research. Federal positions offer exceptional job security, comprehensive benefits and the opportunity to work on projects that protect both people and planet.

Career Opportunities:

• Environmental Protection Specialist at EPA ensuring regulatory compliance
• Meteorologist at NOAA predicting weather and climate patterns
• Geospatial Intelligence Analyst at NGA supporting national security
• Natural Resource Manager at USGS protecting public lands
• Climate Research Scientist at NASA studying Earth systems
• Emergency Management Specialist coordinating disaster response
• Energy Analyst at Department of Energy advancing clean technology

Emerging Climate and Technology Frontiers

Salary Range: $70,000-$150,000+
Lead innovation at the intersection of environmental science, technology and social impact. These rapidly expanding fields reward your interdisciplinary thinking and technical expertise with exceptional growth potential and the chance to define new approaches to global challenges.

Career Opportunities:

• Environmental Data Scientist applying AI to environmental problems
• Climate Risk Assessor helping organizations prepare for climate impacts
• Carbon Markets Analyst developing solutions for greenhouse gas reduction
• Environmental Advocate ensuring fair environmental protection
• Precision Agriculture Specialist optimizing food production with minimal environmental impact
• Green Finance Analyst directing investment toward sustainable projects
• Environmental Technology Developer creating innovative solutions for pollution and waste

Your Science, Your Impact, Your Future

Every path in Geographic and Environmental Sciences connects your natural curiosity about the world with the power to create positive change. Whether you're drawn to cutting-edge research, innovative technology or hands-on conservation, your education provides the foundation for a career that protects the environment while building a sustainable future. With 85-98% employment rates, median salaries reaching $80,060 and over 8,500 annual job openings, your commitment to environmental and spatial sciences becomes your pathway to professional fulfillment and planetary stewardship.