What you'll learn studying Geography at UW-Platteville
The University of Wisconsin-Platteville geography minor, offered through the Department of Environmental Sciences and Society, allows students to explore the concepts of physical and human geography through a variety of classroom, laboratory, and field experiences. You will learn about the physical world’s processes and patterns as you pursue a geography degree, and gain a deeper understanding of the impact of human actions on the world’s natural systems.
The minor in geography requires the completion of 24 credit hours, including courses with a physical geography focus, human geography courses, and additional electives of your choosing. In your geography classes, you will explore spatial variation and diversity on local, regional, and global levels. In addition to developing an understanding of geographical content and techniques, you will learn how to apply these concepts helping to identify potential solutions to various environmental and societal issues impacting the world around us.
Careers in Geography
Studying geography in college will provide the foundation you need to succeed in a variety of careers. Whether you choose to go into education, travel/tourism, politics, international affairs, agriculture, or another field, the analytical and mathematical skills you gain in your geography courses will prepare you well for your future.
Some of the roles you might pursue by pairing a geography minor with your degree include:
- Atmospheric and space scientist
- Cartographer
- Climate change analyst
- Climatologist
- Crisis manager
- Environmental restoration planner
- Environmental scientist
- Geographer
- Geographic information system technician
- Geography teacher
- Geopolitical analyst
- Geospatial data technician
- Geospatial information scientist
- Landscape architect
- Park ranger
- Photogrammetrist
- Regional planner
- Remote sensing technician
- Soil and plant scientist
- Surveyor
- Transportation planner
- Travel writer
- Urban planner
Some students who minor in geography choose to go on to pursue graduate programs to further their knowledge. A graduate degree may be required for certain careers, while other roles merely require some training in geography and an understanding of how to work with data and use geographic information. Many of the professionals in this field work for the federal government, although there are also geography careers in state governments, education, and private industry.
Discover by doing
At UW-Platteville, you will learn inside and outside of the classroom, in laboratories, and through a variety of hands-on opportunities. Choose from research projects, internships, university events, and more — all designed to help you develop a deeper understanding of, and a more meaningful connection to, the field of geography.
