Geography
Engaging in the Major
Geography at BYU is all about discovering how the world fits together—the land, the people, and the systems that connect them. With six different emphases to choose from, you can explore what excites you most, whether that's mapping, communities, the environment, or global systems. Everyone starts with core classes that build a strong foundation in spatial thinking and real-world problem solving.
As you move through the major, you’ll gain tech and research skills like GIS, remote sensing, and data analysis, along with strong communication abilities. You’ll also start to see how geography connects to real issues in your community and the world, preparing you to make a meaningful impact wherever you go.
Competencies and Careers
Competencies Developed in the Program
As a Geography major, you’ll develop strong Communication, Information Literacy, and Cultural Navigation competencies. Want to know more about these professional competencies? Career Readiness
Common Career Fields
Geography major students can use their degree to pursue careers in many fields. Some of those include: geographer, City or Regional Planner, Cartographer, GIS Analyst, Remote Sensing Analyst, Intelligence, Law, Tourism and Travel, Education/Academia, Sustainability Coordinator, Data Analyst, Conservation Specialist, and Policy Analyst.
Not sure where to start? Explore career fields that match your interests.
Meet with your Advisor
Would you like to know more about the program to see if it’s a good fit for your goals? Would you like to know more about your career options? Do you have a career option in mind, but you’d like resources to help you chart a path toward that goal? Schedule a meeting with Sam Prestwich to explore your goals and next steps.
Contact the Liberal Arts Advisement Center to set up an appointment.
Recommended Course Progression
Course Planning Considerations:
- Here are a few tips for making the most of your first few semesters in the Geography major:
- Start with a few core courses to build a solid foundation.
- Jump into an intro course in your emphasis early to explore what interests you.
- Keep in mind that some courses aren’t offered every semester, since we’re a smaller department.
Additional Classes to Consider:
- ENGL 394R
- DIGHT 230
- CCE 112
- CCE 114
- CS 180
Course substitutions and waivers
If you need a course substitution, contact the Geography Course Substitutions.
Grad plans:
If you would like help creating a grad plan, consider meeting with an undergraduate specialist at the Liberal Arts Advisement Center.
Choosing an emphasis:
If you are unsure about your chosen emphasis, consider meeting with your academic and professional development manager, Sam Prestwich.
Funding and Internships
Should I do an internship?
Definitely. Internships help you get hands-on experience and figure out what fits you best. Talk to Sam Prestwich if you want to see how internships fit into your plan.
Where to find internships:
- Washington Seminar
- Handshake
- On-Campus Internships
- Geography Department Internship Coordinator: Alison Sondrup
Funding for Internships
Funding for professional internships. Please apply! Family, Home, and Social Sciences Internship Grants
Funding for Study Abroad Programs
There are great study abroad programs for Geography students, like: Kilimanjaro: Adventure Travel in Tanzania and Landscapes & Nations in Western Europe. Study abroad programs vary by year. Find Your Program through the Kennedy Center. Funding opportunities are available through the Kennedy Center.
College of Family, Home, and Social Sciences (FHSS) Tuition Scholarships
You can find out about scholarship options and apply here: FHSS Financial Aid
University financial aid options
There are many resources to help you fund your tuition and experiences at BYU. The Financial Aid Office can help!
Campus Resources
- Geography Department: For course questions, faculty contacts, and more, contact the Geography Department
- Pre-Professional Advisement: For pre-med or pre-law resources, contact the Pre-Professional Advisement Center.
- Handshake Internship and Job Board: To search internships and jobs that match your interests and skills, use Handshake.
- BYU Connect: Expand your network now and find a mentor! With its ever-increasing database of BYU alumni, BYU Connect can help you find an alum in your field of interest who can help you broaden your perspective, network, and make vital career decisions.
- Kennedy Center: For International Study programs and funding, contact the BYU Kennedy Center.
- Career Director: To get help connecting to employers and alumni, meet with Amanda Peterson.
- Course descriptions and offerings: To check out which classes will be offered in the upcoming semester, use the BYU Class Search.
Getting Involved
Connect with Us
FAQ's
-
Toggle ItemWhich minors do Geography students usually have?
Geography pairs well with many minors. Depending on your career goals, you might choose: Digital Humanities, Civic Engagement Leadership, Political Science, Statistics, Business, Computer Science, or Environmental Science & Sustainability. You can check out all of the minors BYU offers in the BYU Catalog.
-
Toggle ItemI have a course that might substitute for my Geography major. How can I find out if my course meets the requirements?
Submit a Substitution Request to the department for review.
-
Toggle ItemI have a hold on my account. Who can help me get it removed?
If it is an AIP hold, please meet with your academic and professional development manager, Sam Prestwich, to get the hold removed. Contact the Liberal Arts Advisement Center to set up an appointment.
-
Toggle ItemWhere can I get help with papers, homework, and studying?
- BYU RWC (Research and Writing Center)
- FHSS Writing Lab
- Y serve tutors
- TA Labs
- Peer Academic Study Specialists (PASS)