College of Social and Behavioral Sciences
- Chair: Shawna Dark
- Sierra Hall (SH) 150
- (818) 677-3532
- www.csun.edu/geography
Overview
Programs
Undergraduate:
B.A., Geography
Option 1: Standard Program
Option 2: Geographic Information Science
Minor in Geography
Minor in Geographic Information Science
Graduate:
M.A., Geography
Option 1: Standard Program
Option 2: Geographic Information Science
Department Programs
The Geography Degree Program Option 1: Geography/Standard Program prepares students to understand the environment around us and interpret the patterns found across Earth’s surface. Comprised of 45 units, the Geography major allows flexibility in course selection while providing solid background in human, physical and regional aspects of the discipline. Option 2: Geography/Geographic Information Science features a strong technical component based on applications of geographic information science (GIS), cartography and remote sensing; along with training in geographical analysis and data presentation. The M.A. Program provides advanced training leading to further graduate work in geography or to employment in teaching, industry or government. For information, check the Departmentwebsite or see a Departmental advisor.
Academic Advisement
Undergraduates must consult with an advisor as soon as they declare Geography as their major and before registration each semester. Graduate students must consult with the Graduate Advisor before registering for classes. Contact the Department Chair for undergraduate advisement and the Graduate Coordinator for questions about graduate study.
Careers
A CSUN Geography Degree can launch a career in a number of fields, some examples of which are geographical analyst working for major corporations, consultant for environmental firms, GIS administrator in either government or industry, or teacher in K-12. The Degree also can provide a foundation for pursuing advanced or professional degrees in social, environmental, or physical sciences, or in law.
Skills
Technical skills taught in Geography include computer mapping, field observation and data collection, GIS, Global Positioning Systems (GPS), land-use analysis, map analysis, presentation graphics, professional report writing, sediment analysis, statistics, topographic surveying and weather station instrumentation.

