BA Geography

The Department of Geography in Penn State's College of Earth and Mineral Sciences offers a strong mix of human, physical, and methodological components that comprise the core of the Geography major. Combining geography with other areas of study allows students to choose from a broad range of topics in order to suit their individual interests. Undergraduate degrees in geography are offered in the Bachelor of Science (BS) and in the Bachelor of Arts (BA). Both programs offer an integrated course of study in which students learn fundamental concepts in physical and human geography while developing methodological proficiency in qualitative analysis, spatial analysis, and/or geospatial technologies.

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) major is a broader liberal-arts based program that incorporates world language study and courses outside the major in combination with core and elective geography courses. The BA Geography major is especially appropriate for students seeking a deeper understanding of the human experience and human-environment interactions, planning to combine their degree with concurrent majors and minors, or intending to pursue postgraduate work in geography or related disciplines.