Earn a MS in Geography

The Department of Geography and GIS offers a program of study leading to a Master of Science in Geography. Our program offers two options. The non-thesis option (36 hours of course work culminating in a research project and presentation) is designed for the professional geographer seeking a terminal degree for a career in the private or public sectors, or as a geography teacher in public schools and community colleges. The thesis option (30 hours of coursework including thesis hours) is designed to meet the same goals as the non-thesis option but also to provide experience in research and scientific inquiry for students who may intend to pursue a doctoral program at other institutions.

The goal of the graduate curriculum in Geography at SIUE is to produce graduates with the following knowledge and skills:

(a) a functional understanding of the field of geography and an in-depth knowledge in one or more specialty areas offered by the department

(b) the geographic skills and expertise needed to address contemporary geographical problems

(c) proficiency in geographic research methods

(d) strength in critical thinking and communication, especially in writing.

The graduate program is organized around areas that reflect the interests and competencies of the graduate faculty including Cartography, Geographic Information Systems (GIS, Remote Sensing, Climatology, Biogeography, Historical-Cultural Geography, Geographic Education, Geomorphology, Hydrology, Political and Medical Geography, and Urban Economic Planning/Economic Development. With the assistance of the Graduate Program Director Dr. Alan Black, students are encouraged to structure their programs around one of these areas and to work closely with graduate faculty having similar interests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Before emailing Dr. Black or other faculty members, please review the following frequently asked questions.

Do I need to have an advisor/supervisor before applying?

No. You will choose your advisor during your second semester. 

What should I include in my statement of purpose?

Your statement of purpose should highlight why you want to study Geography at SIUE. You should explain your research interests and include which faculty member might be important to complete your research. While not necessary, previous research or publications are also helpful.

When is the best time to apply?

While students can begin the program in Spring semesters, we highly encourage students to apply for Fall admission if possible due to the sequence of required courses that students must take to complete the degree. Applications for Fall semesters are evaluated on an ongoing basis beginning in December. Applicants must have a complete application submitted prior to the admission deadlines set by SIUE for the term in which they intend to begin the program.  

Are there assistantships available?

A limited number of departmental assistantships are available on a competitive basis to students who begin the program during the Fall term. In most cases, assistantships are not available for students who start during the Spring term.