PhD in Geography
Ask new questions. Advance geographic research.
How do environmental systems, economic activity and human behavior shape our world? With a PhD in Geography from the University at Buffalo, you'll investigate complex geographic questions, develop advanced research and technical skills and contribute original knowledge to your field
Designed for students interested in research and academic careers, our doctoral program offers the flexibility to pursue your interests while working closely with faculty who provide guidance throughout your studies.
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At UB, you'll join a collaborative research community that encourages you to explore new ideas, develop specialized expertise and contribute meaningful discoveries to the field of geography.
- Personalized faculty mentorship: Work closely with your adviser and supervisory committee to design a program of study that reflects your research interests and career goals.
- Flexible research opportunities: Pursue original research across environmental, economic, technological and social dimensions of geography.
- Advanced research training: Develop specialized technical, analytical and methodological skills that support your dissertation research.
- A distinctive doctoral program: UB is the only institution in the State University of New York system that awards a PhD in Geography.
Degree type: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Field: Geography
Instruction method: In person
Enrollment: Full time
Program length: Approximately five years
What makes this PhD stand out?
The PhD in Geography combines advanced research training with the flexibility to pursue your own scholarly interests. Working closely with faculty, you'll develop an individualized program of study, build specialized technical skills and conduct original dissertation research.
Your doctoral training includes:
- Advanced coursework in geography and your chosen research area
- Specialized training in research methods and technical skills
- A preliminary examination that evaluates your knowledge of your research specialization
- Responsible Conduct of Research training
- A written dissertation proposal and oral defense
- Original dissertation research completed under faculty supervision
- A public oral defense of your completed dissertation
Students develop their programs of study with guidance from a faculty adviser and supervisory committee. The committee supports academic planning, evaluates research progress and oversees major doctoral milestones.
The PhD in Geography offers opportunities to specialize in several areas of research. You'll work with faculty to develop a program of study that aligns with your interests and supports your dissertation.
Investigate the natural processes that shape our planet, including climate, water systems and environmental change. Explore how Earth's systems interact and use geographic research methods to better understand environmental challenges.
Examine how economic activity, international trade and global business networks shape places and regions. Explore the relationships between markets, development, government policies and geographic patterns.
Advance research in geographic information systems (GIS), spatial analysis and geospatial technologies. Investigate new methods for understanding, analyzing and visualizing geographic information.
Explore how geographic location, environmental conditions and social factors influence health. Use geographic research and spatial analysis to investigate health patterns and the relationships between people, places and health outcomes.
Study the forces shaping cities, regions and communities. Investigate topics such as urban development, transportation, population patterns and land use through geographic research and analysis.
Through advanced coursework and independent research, you'll develop the knowledge and skills to investigate geographic questions and make original contributions to your field.
By completing this program, you'll be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge of fundamental geographic principles and concepts. Explain broad concepts and recent developments in geography.
- Apply critical thinking to geographic questions and research challenges.
- Use research and analytical methods to investigate geographic patterns and processes.
- Communicate geographic research effectively through writing and oral presentations.
- Integrate geographic perspectives and methods to understand complex issues.
- Develop an original intellectual contribution in a specialized area of geography.
The PhD in Geography prepares you to become an independent researcher. With guidance from your faculty adviser and supervisory committee, you'll develop your expertise, refine your research questions and complete an original dissertation.
Preliminary examination
Typically completed during your third semester, this examination evaluates your knowledge of your research specialization and readiness for dissertation work. It includes written questions and an oral examination conducted by your supervisory committee.
Responsible Conduct of Research training
You'll complete training in responsible and ethical research practices as part of your doctoral preparation. Completion must be documented when you submit your Application to Candidacy.
Dissertation proposal and defense
You'll develop a written proposal outlining your research questions, methods and goals. You'll then present and defend your proposed research before your supervisory committee, receiving feedback to guide your dissertation.
Dissertation research and final defense
You'll conduct original research under faculty supervision, contributing new knowledge to your field. Once your dissertation is complete, you'll present your findings in a public oral defense evaluated by your supervisory committee.
The PhD in Geography is primarily designed for students interested in careers in research and academia.
The advanced research, analytical and technical skills you develop may also support opportunities in:
- Higher education and academic research
- Government and public research institutions
- Geographic information science and geospatial research
- Environmental and sustainability research
- Economic, urban and regional analysis
- Research organizations and consulting
Ready to pursue original research in geography? Explore our faculty's research interests and connect with potential advisers to discuss your goals before applying. Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact faculty members to identify shared research interests and opportunities for mentorship.
PhD Program Metrics
Have questions about the PhD in Geography, research opportunities 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