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Geography Minor

Student learning how to use digital surveyor map.

Explore the Interconnected World: The Geography Minor at Westfield State University

The Geography Minor at Westfield State University offers a rich exploration of spatial distributions and interactions among people, places, and environments. This program connects to a variety of disciplines, enhancing students' understanding of complex systems and societal issues. To fulfill the 18-19 credit requirement, including 12 credits in residence, students can select from a diverse array of courses. Foundational offerings include courses on global geography and sustainability, while methods courses emphasize practical skills in data analysis and geographic technologies. The curriculum also addresses important topics such as environmental change and social justice, exploring critical issues like resource access and community development. This comprehensive program equips students with valuable insights and skills that are applicable across numerous fields.

Program Highlights

  • Required courses - 18 to 19 credits
  • Integrate geography with various fields for a broader perspective
  • Choose from a range of foundational and methods courses to suit your interests
  • Examine important themes related to social justice and community challenges

Course Requirements

Program Description

Geography studies the spatial distributions and interactions of peoples, places, and environments throughout the world.  The discipline describes, analyzes and represents these spatial phenomena.  A geography minor relates to many other disciplines, with robust spatial sub-fields such as Environmental Science, History, Criminal Justice, Biology, Political Science, Leisure Studies, Cultural Studies, Ethnic and Gender Studies, and Economics and Management.

 

Twelve (12) of the Geography Minor credits must be taken in residence at Westfield State University.

Requirements for the Geography Minor

The minor requires a total of 18 - 19 credits as follows:

Part I: Foundation Courses

Students must select any three of the following courses:

Part II: Methods Courses

Students must select any one of the following courses:

Part III: Environmental Geography

Students must select any one of the following courses:

Part IV: Urban and Social Justice

Students must select any one of the following courses:

Additional Graduation Requirements

All students must meet the University Graduation Requirements and complete a general education or common core of studies, distributed among the different academic areas as detailed in General Education: WISE or Common Core.

What Can You Do With a Geography Minor?

A geography minor can open up a variety of career paths and opportunities. Here are some options:

  • Community Development
  • Environmental Management
  • Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Specialist
  • Public Policy
  • Research and Analysis
  • Urban and Regional Planning
GARP class featuring instructor with students using surveying tools

Real-World Experience: Apply Your Learning and Build Your Future

Through field-based classes and regional travel you’ll have numerous opportunities to apply your classroom knowledge in real-world settings. Engage with the local community to make a difference while acquiring valuable experience and skills in planning, advocacy, research, and more. Learn from experts in advanced technologies such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS), drones, remote sensing, and Global Positioning Systems (GPS), which can become the foundation of your future career.

Urban and Regional Planning Thesis Project

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Geography Minor