Wondering whether a degree in geography and planning might be right for you? Contact our office to ask questions or set up a conversation with one of our advisors.
Phone: 530-898-5285
Email: geop@csuchico.edu
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- Geography BA
Geography BA
Program Type Undergraduate Major
Delivery Type On Campus
Explore the deep, multifaceted connection between earth’s many landforms and people, and the importance of responsible land stewardship for future generations.
As the CSU’s oldest geography program, we have been readying graduates for meaningful careers in land preservation, conservation, and policy development since 1964—and continue to lead the field by providing research, specialized labs, internships, and presentation opportunities that set you up for success. With forests, mountains, valleys, creeks, and plains serving as an extension of our classrooms, this immersive degree brings science and theory to life in meaningful ways that build on your love for open spaces and nature.
Understand and Protect the Natural World
From classes about Earth’s natural systems and California’s range of landscapes to sustainability and resilience, you'll gain a solid understanding of all-important environmental issues and have access to the lab, communication, and field experiences to critically analyze them.
Major Options
As a student in the major, you can choose the option that matches your goals and long-term passion for change—whether it’s creating livable communities, regenerative economies, and sustainable places or engaging in stewardship, policy creation, or land-use planning.
Environmental Studies
A pathway for future environmental policy and urban planning champions—changemakers who contribute to the creation of future-proof communities and sustainable places. You’ll learn about global issues like climate change and urbanization, and gain the skillset to problem-solve and create meaningful, lasting change.
Landscape Studies
The route for land managers, wildlife rangers, and cartographers (map makers) who understand our world’s physical landscapes and the natural processes and diverse cultures that have shaped them. Through field research, you’ll look at climate patterns, vegetation, and landforms along with an understanding of societal trends such as urban expansion and migration.
Careers With Purpose
Our graduates go on to work with all levels of government as rangers, conservationists, land managers, and more, or work in the private sector as environmental consultants and planning specialists advocating for earth-friendly practices. They’re also able to begin graduate degrees and critical research around the world.
Some high-profile employers hiring our Wildcats include:
State government:
- California Department of Transportation (Caltrans)
- Cal Fire
- California Department of Fish and Wildlife
- California Department of Water Resources
- California Department of Housing and Community Development
Federal government:
- Bureau of Land Management
- US Department of Agriculture Forest Service (US Forest Service)
- US Geological Survey
- The National Park Service
Private sector:
- Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc.
- Apple Inc.
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I picked this major because of my love for the environment. One of my favorite aspects of the department is the smaller class sizes and personal connection with the faculty.
A Legacy of Impact
Faculty and students in the geography program have been using their knowledge, skills, and voices to affect meaningful change locally and nationally for 50 years—and counting.
Climate Change Initiative Takes Off
Geography and planning professor Mark Stemen’s nationally recognized faculty learning community platform is leading California State University’s efforts to integrate sustainability education into all programs across the system.
Mapping Lab Traces Population Displaced by Camp Fire
A team of Chico State researchers has been studying the initial movements of those displaced by the blaze, as well as where they are now. Their findings, they say, are revealing.
Supporting a Cultural Burn at Chico State
The Mechoopda Tribe became the first to utilize new legislation to carry out a cultural burn on a campus with support from geography professor Don Hankins, among others.
Enhance Your Experience
Latitude 39
Join our vibrant, mission-focused club offering social and professional opportunities for students in the geography program. From trivia nights to guest speakers, you’ll develop a deeper appreciation and connection to peers who share your passion.
GeoPlace Mapping Lab
Put your classwork to practice at our student-run GeoPlace Mapping Lab, a spatial data development and map creation hub serving faculty, staff, and students with print and hardcopy maps using a full suite of geospatial technology.
Discover Stories and More
Chico State TodayRelated Programs
Geography and Environmental Studies Department
Wondering whether a degree in geography and planning might be right for you? Contact our office to ask questions or set up a conversation with one of our advisors.
Phone: 530-898-5285
Email: geop@csuchico.edu