"In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous."
~ Aristotle

What is geography?

Geography is the study of the interrelationships between earth and its people. It is considered and social and natural science. The discipline focuses on man's interaction with climate, land, water, space, mineral resources, population density, changes in environment, and how man adapts to them. Alternatively, Urban Studies focuses on the study of cities, emphasizing the process of urbanization, urban problems, the socioeconomic aspects of urban life, and past and present efforts at urban planning and development.

At William Paterson University, students may enroll as Geography and Urban Studies majors in a course of study that leads to a Bachelor of Arts degree. Geography and Urban Studies majors must complete 34 required credits of course work in various fields of geography including regional geography, systematic geography, geographic techniques, and urban studies.

To learn more about the degree requirements, please visit this link:
http://www.wpunj.edu/cohss/geography/program.htm

WPUNJ Admissions information on Geography is located here:
http://www.wpunj.edu/cohss/geography/

What interests and skills do potential employers value in this career?

• Curiosity
• Desire to help people understand and adapt to their environment
• Spirit of scientific inquiry
• Desire to help influence mankind
• Intellectual growth
• Independence
• Keen interest in both the natural and social sciences
• Resourcefulness

Possible Job Titles

Aside from majoring in Geography, what else can I do that may enhance my qualifications?

Students who major in Geography at William Paterson University have numerous opportunities to enhance their academic experience. Students can obtain internships at museums and non-profit organizations through the Geography department. Finally, many students find that a study abroad experience enhances their curriculum because they are given the opportunity to experience other cultures and customs.

What else can I read about Geography?

National Geographic http://www.nationalgeographic.com
Association of American Geographers http://www.aag.org/
US Geological Survey http://www.usgs.gov/
National Council for Geographic Education http://www.ncge.org/

Other sources of information :

Please drop by the Career Development and Advisement Center to learn more about careers in geography. The career library carries career-specific books and counselors are available to answer any further questions you may have.

The Career Development and Gloria S. Williams Advisement Center
Student Center 301, 300 Pompton Road Wayne, NJ 07470
Phone 973.720.2281/2282 Fax 973.720.2074

Contact us with comments, questions and feedback about the website.