Choosing Between a B.A. and B.S. in Geography: Key Factors to Consider

If you’re planning to major in geography, you may be wondering how a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Geography differ and which one you’ll end up pursuing. At Marshall University, the B.S. is the standard path for most geography majors, while the B.A. offers an alternative route for students who haven’t met the B.S. math and science prerequisites. This guide explains the key differences between the two degrees, what each involves and where they can lead.

Key Takeaways

• The B.S. in Geography is the standard track for most Marshall geography majors, while the B.A. is an option for students who haven’t met the B.S. math and science prerequisites. The B.A. emphasizes people and places, and the B.S. emphasizes physical geography and geospatial technology.
• A B.S. typically includes more math, lab science and GIS coursework, while a B.A. may emphasize research, writing and social science.
• Geography graduates work in planning, environmental science, GIS, education and other fields.
• Marshall University offers B.A. and B.S. degrees in Geography on campus and fully online.

Overview of B.A. & B.S. Degrees in Geography

Both degrees fall under the same broad academic umbrella, but they aren’t typically an either-or choice. At Marshall, most geography majors pursue the B.S., and the B.A. primarily serves students who haven’t completed the math and science prerequisites the B.S. requires. The two degrees share a foundation in spatial thinking, but each shapes your coursework and skill set differently. Here’s a breakdown of how they overlap and where they diverge.

What Do B.A. and B.S. Degrees in Geography Have in Common?

In general, a bachelor of arts degree focuses on the humanities while a bachelor of science emphasizes math and science. When it comes to geography, both degrees include the same core geographic principles and a focus on understanding the earth’s landscapes and environments, as well as the relationships between people and places.

Students in both programs typically take introductory courses in human and physical geography, cartography and geographic research methods and learn to think spatially. Both degrees can also lead to a variety of opportunities in areas such as natural resource management or planning and working with geographic information systems (GIS).

How Do B.A. and B.S. Degrees in Geography Differ?

Typically, a bachelor of arts degree in geography provides a broader education that includes a curriculum in liberal arts, humanities and social sciences. Students can take electives in a wide range of courses and subjects, including math and science, but it’s typically not to the extent that a B.S. degree offers. The Bachelor of Arts in Geography is ideal for students who are interested in spatial and human dimensions of places, cities and regions.

A bachelor of science degree provides students with more specialized knowledge in a particular field, such as chemistry, business or healthcare. As a result, students typically take fewer electives outside their major, focusing more on coursework in math, science and technology. This structure also applies to a Bachelor of Science in Geography, which is tailored for students interested in concepts and issues related to the environment, earth processes, atmospheric processes, climate or GIScience.

What Does the Curriculum Look Like for Each Degree?

Both degree programs will offer similar introductory courses. Here’s how the curriculum for each breaks down.

B.A. in Geography

Students will explore concepts and issues related to population dynamics and migration, globalization, planning, economic development, transportation systems, connectivity and accessibility, segregation and urban growth and decline. These themes are explored at the local, regional and global levels.

Examples of course titles include:

• Intro to Human Geography
• Methods in Geography
• Urban Geography
• Geography of Europe
• Political Geography

B.S. in Geography

Students will learn about ecology, weather analysis, meteorology, climatology, hurricanes and other types of severe weather, in addition to GIS spatial analysis and technologies. Some degree programs may allow you to specialize in a particular area, such as climate change, biogeography, meteorology or weather broadcasting.

Examples of course titles include:

• Meteorology
• Environmental Geography
• Principles of Geographic Information Systems
• Climatology
• Remote Sensing

What Skills Does Each Geography Degree Build?

Because the B.A. and B.S. emphasize different types of coursework, each degree helps students build a distinct set of skills.

A Bachelor of Arts in Geography tends to include more critical thinking skills and opportunities for creative thinking. The courses often have a greater focus on writing and presenting, with numerous opportunities for group discussion.

A Bachelor of Science in Geography emphasizes the technical and scientific aspects of the field. Students typically gain skills and experience in computer programming, statistical analysis and modeling. This type of program focuses on quantitative methods, computer data analysis and geospatial technologies, giving students a strong foundation for technical and scientific careers.

Is Geography a Good Major?

Yes, geography is a good major for students who want to know why things happen where they do and enjoy connecting people, places and the environment. It provides transferable skills that employers value, such as spatial analysis, data literacy, research and written and oral communication.

Geography also offers a way to understand some of the issues shaping communications and organizations today. Students may explore topics such as climate change, urban growth, resource conversation, economic development, population trends and migration. Depending on the program, coursework may combine physical geography, human geography, geographic information systems, data analysis and field research.

The major can also provide flexibility after graduation. Geography graduates may apply their skills in areas such as urban and regional planning, environmental management, GIS and mapping, transportation, community development, government, education and business. The specific career paths available will depend on the student’s coursework, technical skills and experience.

A geography major may be a good fit if you:

• Want to understand how location influences people, communities and the environment
• Enjoy working with maps, data or geographic technology such as GIS
• Are interested in issues such as climate change, sustainability, urban development or population trends
• Want to combine research and analytical skills with writing and communication
• Prefer an interdisciplinary field that draws from the social sciences, natural sciences and other areas of study

Which Majors and Minors Pair Well With Geography?

Geography pairs well with majors and minors that focus on people, places, data and the environment. The best combination will depend on your career interests, but students may consider fields such as:

• Environmental science or sustainability: Adds scientific knowledge for students interested in conservation, climate change, natural resource or environmental planning
• Urban planning: Builds on geography’s focus on place and communities
• Data science or statistics: Strengthens quantitative and analytical skills, particularly for students interested in GIS, spatial analysis or data-focused careers
• Computer science: Can complement geography through programming, database management and other technical skills
• Economics: Provides a foundation for understanding economic development, labor markets, resource use and the geographic factors that influence economic activity
• Political science: Can complement human geography for students interested in government, public policy, international relations or community development
• Business: May be useful for students interested in applying geographic analysis to areas such as market research, location analysis, logistics or real estate
• Communication or writing: Strengthens skills that geography graduates can use to explain research findings, create reports and communicate with different audiences.

What Can I Do With a Geography Degree?

With a degree in geography, you can pursue careers that involve people and communities, the natural environment, data and technology or some combination of these areas. Here are a variety of common career paths, grouped by area of focus.

Government, Planning & Policy

If you’re drawn to the human side of geography, these roles let you help shape communities and inform how governments respond to regional and global issues.

• Urban planner: Develops land-use plans and programs that help cities and towns manage growth and revitalize neighborhoods.
• Transportation planner: Studies traffic patterns, transit access and connectivity to improve how people and goods move.
• Community development specialist: Works with local governments and nonprofits on housing, economic development and neighborhood initiatives.
• Geopolitical analyst: Assesses how geography, borders and resources influence political risk and international relations.
• Intelligence analyst: Uses geographic data and imagery to support national security and defense decisions.
• Emergency management specialist: Maps hazards and vulnerable populations to help communities prepare for and respond to natural disasters.

Environment & Earth Science

These careers suit students interested in physical geography, climate and the natural world.

• Environmental scientist: Researches environmental problems such as pollution, land degradation and habitat loss and develops ways to address them.
• Environmental consultant: Advises businesses and government agencies on environmental regulations, impact assessments and sustainability.
• Meteorologist: Analyzes atmospheric data to forecast weather and track severe storms. This role typically requires specialized education in atmospheric science or meteorology.
• Climate analyst: Studies long-term climate patterns and helps organizations plan for climate-related risks.
• Natural resource manager: Oversees the use and conservation of land, water, forests and wildlife.

GIS & Geospatial Technology

For students who enjoy data, mapping and technology, geospatial careers offer ways to apply geographic knowledge to real-world problems.

• GIS specialist: Builds and maintains geographic information systems that organizations use to store, analyze and visualize spatial data.
• Geospatial analyst: Interprets spatial data to identify patterns and inform decisions in areas such as logistics, public health and real estate.
• Cartographer: Designs and produces maps, from printed atlases to interactive digital maps.
• Remote sensing analyst: Uses satellite, aerial and drone imagery to monitor land use, environmental change and infrastructure.
• Surveyor: Measures and maps property boundaries and land features for construction, engineering and legal purposes. Most states require licensure for this role.
• Computer programmer: Develops software, applications and tools that support mapping platforms and geospatial analysis. Additional training in computer science or programming may be required for some positions.

Education & Research

If you want to share your interest in geography or contribute to research, these roles can put your geographic knowledge to work in educational and analytical settings.

• Educator: Teaches geography, social studies or earth science at the K–12 level.
• College professor: Teaches and conducts research at colleges and universities. This role typically requires a graduate degree.
• Research analyst: Collects and analyzes geographic, demographic or market data for think tanks, businesses or government agencies.
• Museum or park educator: Develops educational programs for cultural organizations, parks and tourism sites.

A degree in geography prepares you to address key challenges such as economic development, globalization and territorial conflict. You will also be equipped to address human-environment challenges, such as climate change, sustainability and natural resource management.

Think of geography as the bridge between natural and social sciences and STEM disciplines. Depending on your focus, geography can encompass a diverse range of fields, including astronomy, environmental science and biology, as well as data science, information technology, civil engineering and statistics.

Who Hires Geography Graduates?

Geography graduates work across the public, private and nonprofit sectors. Common employers include:

• Federal government agencies: Organizations such as the U.S. Geological Survey, Environmental Protection Agency, National Weather Service and Federal Emergency Management Agency.
• State and local governments: City, town and county governments hire geography graduates for roles in planning, transportation, environmental management, GIS and economic development.
• Regional planning agencies: Metropolitan and regional planning organizations use geographic data to support land-use, transportation and community development decisions.
• Military and intelligence organizations: Defense and intelligence agencies employ professionals with skills in GIS, geospatial analysis, mapping and geographic intelligence.
• Nonprofits and NGOs: Organizations focused on environmental conservation, community development, humanitarian work, education and advocacy may hire graduates with geographic and spatial analysis skills.
• Colleges and universities: Higher education institutions employ geography graduates in teaching, research, GIS and administrative roles.
• Public schools: Geography and related coursework can lead to teaching careers, typically with the required state certification.
• Private-sector businesses: Companies use GIS, location analysis, spatial data and geographic research in industries such as technology, consulting, real estate, transportation and environmental services.
• Cultural and tourism organizations: Museums, historic sites, parks and tourism organizations can use geographic knowledge for education, interpretation, research and visitor planning

The American Association of Geographers (AAG) maintains career resources highlighting geography professionals working across these sectors. Some examples of employers and organizations featured by the AAG include:

• State of West Virginia
• National Weather Service
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
• U.S. Geological Survey
• U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service
• Sierra Club
• Office of Climate Change, Sustainability, and Resiliency, City and County of Honolulu
• City of Palm Springs, California
• Colorado Preservation, Inc.

These examples illustrate the range of settings where geography skills can be applied, from environmental science and public policy to GIS, conservation, planning and education.

B.A. vs. B.S. in Geography: Comparison Chart

Here’s a quick side-by-side look at the two degrees.

* This relates specifically to Marshall University’s geography programs. Others may differ in terms of credits and credit hours.

Discover the Benefits of a Geography Degree from Marshall University

Marshall University offers both a B.A. and B.S. in Geography, as well as minors in Geography and Meteorology. Students can also pursue a GIScience minor or certificate, gaining valuable skills in geospatial technologies.

Students pursuing a B.S. in Geography can specialize in exciting areas of emphasis, including Weather Broadcasting, Meteorology or GIScience, tailoring their education to align with their career goals.

With knowledgeable instructors, an up-to-date curriculum and the support of the welcoming Marshall community, graduates consistently praise the program for its quality and the opportunities it provides. Plus, students can finish their B.A. or B.S. in Geography 100% online!
For more information about the on-campus degree program, contact Dr. Jonathan Kozar, and to learn about the online degree program, contact Dr. Hilton Córdoba. Both are distinguished assistant professors of geography at Marshall University.