Geography, B.A.

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

Embark on a dynamic exploration of our planet and its diverse inhabitants with the Geography, B.A. at California State University San Marcos (CSUSM). This undergraduate degree is crafted for those intrigued by the intricate relationships between human societies and their environments, preparing you to address complex global and regional challenges. You will delve into critical areas such as climate change, urban development, border studies, and geographic information systems (GIS), gaining a spatial understanding of pressing issues. This program equips you with the analytical tools and foundational knowledge to interpret our world and contribute to informed solutions.

You will engage in a comprehensive, full-time, on-campus learning experience over four years, structured to build your expertise progressively. The curriculum integrates foundational physical and human geography with advanced techniques, including GIS, remote sensing, and quantitative methods. Through upper-division electives and opportunities for community internships or independent study, you will tailor your learning to specific interests, such as environmental geography or globalization. Upon graduation, you will possess a robust skillset applicable to diverse career paths in urban planning, environmental management, data analysis, and public policy.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

The Geography, B.A. program provides a comprehensive understanding of the Earth's physical and human systems. Students will explore foundational concepts in physical and human geography, geographic information systems, and regional studies. The curriculum progresses to advanced topics including climate change, urban geography, environmental issues, and border studies, culminating in specialized electives and practical experience.

1 Preparation for the Major* (20 Units)

Introduction to Physical Geography
Introduction to Physical Geography Lab
Explorations in Border Studies
Introduction to Human Geography
Food Worlds: Comparative National Cuisines
Introduction to Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
World Regional Geography
Introduction to Oceanography
Water Resources
Introduction to Statistics

2 Required Upper-Division Core (15 units)

Climate Change and Life in the Anthropocene
Earth: The Habitable Planet
Geography of Life
Borders: Interdisciplinary Perspectives
Introduction to Migration Studies
Trade Routes: Pathways Across Borders
Place, Power, and the Environment
The U.S.-Mexico Border
Globalization and Trade
Food Systems and Emerging Markets
Patterns of San Diego County
Cities and Climate Justice
America’s Urban Areas: A Multidisciplinary Exploration
Urban Geography: Cities in Global Context
Children and the Environment
Nature and Society in California
Environmental Geography
Environment, Development and Sustainability
Field Methods in Geography
Advanced Spatial Statistics and Analysis
Remote Sensing of the Environment
Quantitative Methods in Geography and Earth Sciences

3 Upper-Division Electives (12 units)

Borders: Interdisciplinary Perspectives
Introduction to Migration Studies
Trade Routes: Pathways Across Borders
Border Water Conflicts
Climate Change and Life in the Anthropocene
Earth: The Habitable Planet
Geography of Life
Patterns of San Diego County
America’s Urban Areas: A Multidisciplinary Exploration
Field Methods in Geography
Advanced Spatial Statistics and Analysis
Nature and Society in California
Environmental Geography
Environment, Development and Sustainability
Globalization and Trade
Urban Geography: Cities in Global Context
Geo Visualization
Remote Sensing of the Environment
Quantitative Methods in Geography and Earth Sciences
Programming in GIS
Research in Geographic Information Systems
Parks and Protected Areas
Food Systems and Emerging Markets
Geospatial Analysis Internship
Community Internship
Community Internship
Community Internship
Supervised Independent Study
Supervised Independent Study
Supervised Independent Study
Children and the Environment

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 17,106.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 17,106.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 17,106.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 17,106.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 68,424.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 3,600.00 - USD 5,400.00
Transport USD 840.00 - USD 1,440.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,040.00
Estimated Total USD 5,640.00 - USD 8,880.00

Living cost estimates are based on San Marcos Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

78%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesAerospace ManufacturingFood Processing & ManufacturingForestry & LoggingHealthcare Administration & ManagementIndustry 4.0 & Digital ManufacturingProduct Design & PrototypingPublic Health & EpidemiologyResearch & Product DevelopmentWireless & Mobile Communications

Top Employers Hiring for this course

California State University San Marcos

City of Encinitas

Microsoft

Northrop Grumman

Qualcomm

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

Scripps Health

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)

Why Study Geography, B.A. at California State University San Marcos (CSUSM)

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Fast Application response time

California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) typically responds to applications within a week, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Geography, B.A. at California State University San Marcos (CSUSM)

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. On-campus work doesn't require a separate permit, while off-campus work may require university approval.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, students must meet specific English test requirements. Acceptable tests include Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE, each with minimum score thresholds.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as urban planners, environmental consultants, GIS specialists, regional analysts, or sustainable development specialists.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Bachelor of Arts in Geography explores topics such as regional and economic geography and environmental change. It equips students with the knowledge and skills to analyze the interactions between people and their environments across various scales.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

This program has two intake months: January and August. Be sure to prepare your application to align with these dates.
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