Graduate Overview
Explore our world. Shape what comes next.
From climate change and environmental sustainability to geospatial technology and global trade, geography helps us understand the forces shaping our world. At the University at Buffalo, you will develop the research, analytical and technical skills to explore complex challenges and turn your knowledge into meaningful impact.
Whether you want to advance your career, specialize in an emerging field or prepare for doctoral research, our graduate programs offer opportunities to pursue your interests and build expertise alongside faculty engaged in research across the discipline.
The Department of Geography offers master's and doctoral programs that connect geographic research with real-world applications. Explore your options to find the degree that matches your academic interests and professional goals.
Available tracks include:
- General Geography: Explore a broad range of geographic topics and develop a program of study around your academic and research interests.
- Earth Systems Science: Study natural systems and environmental processes, including climate, water resources and ecological change.
- Environmental Modeling and Analysis: Use geographic information systems, environmental science and analytical methods to investigate environmental challenges.
- Geographic Information Science: Develop skills in GIS, spatial analysis and geographic data visualization.
- Urban and Regional Analysis: Examine cities, transportation, land use and the geographic patterns shaping communities.
- Transportation and Business Geographics: Explore transportation systems, location analysis and the geographic dimensions of business and economic activity.
At UB, you'll join a collaborative research community where geography connects people, places, technology and the environment. You'll work with faculty, explore emerging technologies and develop the skills to make an impact in your field.
- Faculty mentorship: Learn from researchers with expertise in geographic information science, environmental systems, economic geography and spatial analysis.
- Hands-on research: Apply geographic concepts, research methods and analytical tools to real-world challenges through research and applied learning opportunities.
- Interdisciplinary opportunities: Connect geography with artificial intelligence, environmental science, computing and economics at a major public research university.
Life in Buffalo
A city with energy, culture and room to grow
Buffalo offers the culture and opportunity of a major city without the cost or congestion. You get professional sports, a nationally recognized orchestra, a vibrant theater district and one of the country’s leading art museums, all in a city that is easy to navigate. Restaurants, coffee shops and local markets make it easy to settle in and feel at home.
Love the outdoors? Lake Erie, the Niagara River and nearby state parks offer hiking, skiing, skating, camping and beaches throughout the year. Winter is part of life here and so is the energy that comes with it.
Buffalo is affordable, connected and growing. Toronto is just 90 minutes away, and the region’s expanding economy means new ideas and opportunities are always within reach.
Photographer: Douglas Levere
Graduate study in geography can open doors to careers that combine research, technology, analysis and problem-solving.
Depending on your degree and specialization, you may pursue opportunities in:
- Geographic information systems and geospatial technology
- Environmental research and natural resource management
- Remote sensing and spatial data analysis
- Urban and regional planning
- International trade and economic development
- Climate adaptation and sustainability
- Government agencies and public policy
- Research, consulting and higher education
Ready to explore your future in geography? Learn more about admission requirements, connect with our department and find the graduate program that fits your goals.
Have questions about our graduate programs, admissions or choosing the right degree? We're here to help.
For general graduate program questions, contact geog@buffalo.edu