College of Letters and Science
Geospatial Sciences Degree
Major
A GEOSPATIAL SCIENCE DEGREE DIRECTS STUDENTS TO SUPPORT MUNICIPAL, STATE OR NATIONAL PROJECT WORK
The potential for using your geospatial sciences major in private enterprise and government has grown considerably in recent years. This potential is reflected in our stellar placement rates – 93 percent of UW-Stevens Point geospatial sciences majors are hired or enrolled in further education within one year of graduation.
The geospatial science program at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point allows students to pursue degrees with specializations in geographic information science and cartography, cultural geography, urban planning and geodesign (the use of geospatial technologies to plan built and natural environments).
Many graduates choose to deepen their knowledge with minor programs in Earth Science, Environmental Geography, Geographic Information Systems and Spatial Science (GISSA), or Urban Planning and Geodesign. Students may also earn a professional certificate in Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
Why Study Geospatial Sciences at UW-Stevens Point?
The Department of Geography and Geology will prepare you for an exciting and meaningful career. Our faculty will instill their knowledge of cartography, geographic information systems, cultural, economic and urban geography, and environmental science. You will hone your expertise in spatial information and the relationship between people, places and the planet.
Program Facilities
From the Earth Materials Testing Laboratory to the Map Center and Spatial Analysis computer labs. You will have access to state-of-the-art computer equipment for the facilitation of map production and geographic analyses. Our students are trained in the field with weather and climate studies, palynology, submeter GPS data collection, large scale urban mapping, and much more.
Awards and Scholarships
The Department of Geography/Geology has established a program of awards to encourage, reward, and recognize student excellence in the department. Each award includes a certificate and cash award.
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WHAT TO EXPECT
Geoscientists locate resources such as potable water, oil, gas and metallic ore deposits, forecast the weather and model climate change, develop land-use plans and geohazard maps, explore Earth’s remote localities as well as other planets and the solar system. The geoscience field is experiencing significant growth in response to an interplay of increasing global consumption and decreasing availability of Earth materials.
Geospatial Sciences students enjoy studying the relationship between people, places, and the planet. Our majors are detectives who try to reveal the past and future of the Earth.
Graduates with a bachelor’s degree in geospatial sciences often find employment at:
- private firms
- local, state and federal agencies
- in teaching, primarily at the secondary level
GET INVOLVED ON CAMPUS
The GeoClub is an informal organization open without restriction to all students interested in the field of geospatial science, geography and geoscience. Gamma Theta Upsilon is an international geographical honor society open to geography students. Prerequisites for regular membership include completion of a minimum of nine credits above the 100 level in geography, a geography grade-point average of a B or higher, and payment of a lifetime membership fee.
Our geospatial sciences majors commonly seek volunteer, part-time, summer, internship or co-op experience in the field. Many consider joining professional organizations such as the American Geographic Society of National Council for Geographic Education. Many join groups that promote natural resources or the environment and pollution control.
Geospatial Sciences
Navigate Your Major
Major Maps help students map their first day to the first job in their chosen field. While a four-year plan outlines classes to get a degree, Major Maps help students learn how to build career-ready skills and experiences outside the classroom. Each Major Map shows how students can get the most of their UW-Stevens Point journey from enrollment to graduation and beyond. It’s a roadmap to discovering your purpose!
Graduate Profiles
Our graduates are in demand. Nationally and regionally, there is a pressing need for professionals educated in GIS and related spatial analysis techniques. Prepare yourself for purposeful work through your courses in the Department of Geography and Geology. Some of our alumni share their career paths!
MEET YOUR FACULTY
UWSP Geo faculty have training and interests in cartography, geographic information systems, climatology, geomorphology, hydrology, natural hazards, environmental science, and cultural, economic and urban geography. Meet your professors!
Doug Miskowiak
- GIS Instructional Administrator
- GIS Graduate Certificate program director
- Geography and Geology chair
715-346-4789
Ismaila Odogba
- Professor
- Co-Director, Center for the Small City
- Global Affiliate Scholar – Ed.D. in Educational Sustainability
AFFILIATED CENTERS
The GIS Center conducts and disseminates GIS education and research to foster a highly skilled, multidisciplinary GIS workforce and to confront geospatial challenges important to Wisconsin citizens.
The Center for the Small City administers an interdisciplinary minor in Small City Analysis and sponsors the biennial National Conference to discuss the development, needs, and problems affecting small cities.
School of Behavorial and Social Sciences