Gustavus Adolphus College

The Department of Geography helps students to develop a critical appreciation of the earth—the home of humanity. This appreciation encompasses an understanding of both the natural world—weather, climate, soils, vegetation, landforms, and hydrology, and the cultural landscape—cities, villages, fields, and factories.

The study of geography is particularly relevant to understanding the diversity of places and regions, the relations between societies and the natural environment, and the relationships between global processes and local outcomes. Geography students are taught a variety of research methods including field work, map making, geographic information systems (GIS), and spatial analysis. The Department actively encourages student/faculty research, internships, travel courses, and study abroad. Geographers have many vocational opportunities in cartography, community development, environmental management, geo-demographic research, GIS, locational analysis for business, and urban and regional planning. A degree in geography is excellent preparation for further professional training in a variety of fields including architecture, foreign service, international development, landscape architecture, and social studies teaching.