Location:

Chicago, United States

Program Type:

Full Degree

Degree Level:

Master

Specialty:

Geography

Program Overview

Program Description:

The program is designed for students with various academic backgrounds who are interested in a career which spans the human and natural environments – the social and physical sciences – and who desire the spatial analytical skills of geography. Graduate students develop an area of proficiency within the broad scope of human- environment interactions and / or within the geographic realm of spatial analysis. The program is both theoretical and practical; students gain knowledge, conceptual skills and technical skills. The program provides a solid basis for a career, a career shift, career enhancement, or preparation for post-graduate studies. Careers • Environmental planning and management in government, industry, and non-profit organizations • Environmental education and nature interpretation • Geographer • Environmental professional • Regional planner • Industrial Development Specialist • Research Analyst • Geographic Information Systems Specialist Required Courses: GES-411 Scope and Philosophy of G&ES.......................3 cr. GES 413 Advanced Research Methods...........................3 cr. TWO OF GES 391: GIS 1................................................................3 cr. GES-442 Quantitative Research Methods.......................3 cr. GES 440 Qualitative Research Methods..........................3 cr. ONE OF GES-430 Research Seminar or....................................3 cr. GES-431 Thesis Seminar.............................................6 cr. Approved Electives................................................... 15/18 cr. Total 33cr. Students must write either a thesis (6 cr.) or major research paper (3 cr.) and pass a Comprehensive Exam (research paper option) or Thesis Defense (thesis option).

Additional Program Information

Accreditation:

The University has regional accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges. In addition, the university also is accredited through several disciplinary bodies.

Financial Aid:

Yes

Requirements:

Applicants must meet the general requirements for admission to the College of Graduate Studies and Research Applicants must have the equivalent of an undergraduate minor in Geography & Environmental Studies, or will be required to take extra undergraduate coursework prior to full admission. Students must provide a typed two-page Statement of Goals and Objectives as part of their application. This statement should demonstrate the student’s writing skills and should specify as clearly as possible academic/professional goals and the reasons for selecting the G&ES program of study. GRE: Not required