Geography & Planning Department

"Provide our students with an in-depth understanding of the geographic patterns, processes, and interactions of the socio-cultural-economic, physical and biological worlds from local to global scales. To prepare students to apply what they are learning to contemporary problems."

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Geography invites critical and creative thinking about our impact on the Earth, the equitable distribution of resources, and sustainable livelihoods across the globe. The Department of Geography and Planning provides students with opportunities to practice critical spatial thinking and research skills using advanced technologies in geographic information sciences, cartography, remote sensing and planning. Topics cover socio-cultural-economic topics and natural science topics-including landscape analysis, water resources, fire management, landscape ecology/biogeography, ecological restoration, climatology, and climate change.

Students work closely with faculty— With excellent lab facilities and small class sizes, students get to work closely with committed faculty, providing a solid foundation for the understanding of environmental processes, community and cultural landscape development, and spatial change over time.

Students get real world experience— From field techniques courses and service learning opportunities to internships, students get real hands-on experience with professional geographers. Students often present their research at professional conferences.

Students get jobs— With a wide array of programs, including certificates in geographic information systems and rural and town planning, our department has an excellent record of job placement for graduates in government, non-profit organizations, and private industry.

Feature Articles

CSU Chico first CSU campus to divest from fossil fuel investments

Following Professor Stemen's GEOG 440 students' efforts, the University Foundation Board of Governors voted to fully divest from fossil fuel companies within the next four years. Chico State will be the first CSU to do so. More info here!