MA in Geography
Explore the world through research, analysis and discovery
How do people, places and natural systems shape our world? With an MA in Geography from the University at Buffalo, you'll explore questions about environmental change, urban development and geographic information while building research and analytical skills that support your academic and professional goals.
Whether you want to advance your career or prepare for doctoral study, you'll have the flexibility to focus on the geographic topics that interest you most.
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At UB, you'll work closely with faculty who help you develop your research interests and shape your academic path. You'll join a collaborative graduate community and have opportunities to connect geographic theory with practical applications.
As a graduate student, you'll benefit from:
• Personalized faculty guidance: Work with faculty advisers who support your progress, help you select courses and guide your research or culminating project.
• Flexible study options: Complete the program in approximately one to two years of full-time study or pursue the degree part time.
• Specialized areas of study: Choose a focused track or design a broader program of study that reflects your interests and goals.
• Applied learning opportunities: Explore internships and research experiences that help you apply geographic knowledge beyond the classroom
Degree type: Master of Arts (MA)
Field: Geography
Program length: Approximately one to two years of full-time study
Enrollment: Full time or part time
What makes this MA stand out?
The MA in Geography combines geographic theory, research methods and applied learning with the flexibility to explore your academic and professional interests.
Your graduate training includes:
• Foundational coursework in geographic research and analytical methods
• Specialized study in environmental, urban or geospatial topics
• Opportunities to explore geographic information systems and spatial analysis
• Faculty-guided research and academic planning
• Potential internships and applied learning experiences
• A culminating research project or competency portfolio
The program is designed to prepare students for careers in government, business and education while providing a foundation for doctoral study
Through coursework and applied research, you'll develop the knowledge and skills to investigate geographic questions, analyze information and communicate your findings.
Your studies will help you:
- Build knowledge of geographic principles, concepts and research methods.
- Apply critical thinking to geographic questions and challenges.
- Use research and analytical methods to investigate geographic patterns and processes.
- Communicate research findings effectively through writing and presentations.
- Apply geographic perspectives to environmental, economic and social issues.
- Develop specialized knowledge in your chosen area of study.
The MA in Geography offers several tracks that allow you to build expertise in a particular area or pursue a broader course of study. You'll work with your adviser to select courses that align with your interests.
Explore a broad range of topics in human and physical geography. This flexible track allows you to design a program of study around your academic interests, research questions and career goals.
Study the natural processes that shape our environment, including climate, water systems and ecological change. Explore how Earth's systems interact and develop skills to investigate environmental challenges
Use geographic information systems, environmental science and analytical methods to study complex environmental problems. Explore approaches to understanding natural systems, modeling environmental change and supporting informed decisions
Develop skills in geographic information systems (GIS), spatial analysis and geographic data visualization. Explore how geospatial technologies help researchers and organizations understand patterns, analyze information and solve problems
Examine how cities and regions grow, change and function. Study topics such as transportation, land use, population patterns and spatial analysis to better understand the challenges facing communities.
The MA in Geography requires students to complete either a research project or competency portfolio. Both options allow you to apply what you've learned and demonstrate your knowledge, research abilities and professional skills.
Research project
Conduct original research on a focused geographic question. Working with your supervisory committee, you'll investigate a topic in depth, analyze your findings and prepare a substantial research report.
Competency portfolio
Showcase your knowledge and technical skills through a collection of work that includes a research paper, an applied study and materials highlighting your academic experience and professional goals.
Faculty guidance
Work with your faculty adviser to choose the option that best supports your interests. Faculty provide guidance throughout the process and evaluate your completed research project or portfolio.
An MA in Geography can help you prepare for professional opportunities that require geographic knowledge, research skills and spatial analysis.
Depending on your specialization, you may pursue careers in:
- Geographic information systems and geospatial technology
- Environmental research and resource management
- Urban and regional planning
- Transportation and spatial analysis
- Government agencies and public policy
- Research, consulting and related fields
The degree can also provide a foundation for further graduate study and doctoral research.
Ready to explore your future in geography? Learn more about admission requirements, connect with our department and find out how the MA in Geography can support your goals.
Have questions about the MA in Geography, available tracks or admissions? We're here to help.
For more information on this graduate program, please send an email with your request to geog@buffalo.edu