Physical Geography

Physical geographers are concerned about the structures and processes controlling the dynamics of the natural world, and how the natural world shapes and is shaped by human action. This includes understanding the impact of natural hazards, such as hurricanes, tornadoes, draughts and earthquakes, on humans and the built environment. Students specializing in Physical Geography will receive technical training in areas such as biogeography, geoscience, hydrology, glaciology, geomorphology, land cover change, and global climate change.

Note: Students interested in becoming meteorologists should major in Atmospheric Sciences. More information is available on the Atmospheric Science Program website.

There is no minimum GPA, required prerequisites, or application required to declare a major in Geography with a specialization in Physical Geography or Climatic Studies.

Physical Geography Curriculum

Undergraduate Curriculum

Issues & Topics:

Weather forecasting

Satellite images
Radar
Model output
Remote Sensing

Physical environment

Biogeography
Natural hazards
Hydrology
Pollution
Air quality

Micrometeorology

Radiation budgets
Surface effects
Energy conservation
Weather and climate

Geomorphology

Tectonic uplift
Glacial action
Chemical weathering
Field observations

Global climate change

Human influence
Glaciers and ice sheets
Impacts
Detection

Climatology

Droughts
El Nino
Land use
Climates of the world

Acquired Skills:

Critical Skills

Critical thinking and reasoning
Oral and written communication
Research design and implementation
Strong organizational skills

Technical skills

Solid foundation in mathematics and the physical sciences
Synoptic and mesoscale weather forecasting
Quantitative data analysis
Graphic communication (including map reading and development)

Careers:

Geographers find careers in many fields both within and outside the discipline of geography. Below is a partial listing of careers for which students within the Physical Geography specialization are well-suited and where previous graduates have found employment.

Climatologist for public or private sector
Professional for agribusiness, outdoor recreation, and resource management corporations
Environmental Management Specialist
Monitor for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Energy and Natural Resources Specialist
Air Quality Analyst
Outdoor Parks Service Guide
Risk Analyst for insurance industry
Professional storm chaser/weather guide
Environmental Consultant
Researcher for the U.S. Geological Survey, the National Resource and Conservation Department's Center for Atmospheric Research, or the Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research