Deciding between a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Geography can be challenging, especially when both degrees offer unique opportunities to explore the world and its many challenges. This guide breaks down the key differences so that you can find the degree that aligns with your interests, strengths and career goals.
Overview of B.A. & B.S. Degrees in Geography
Similarities
In general, a bachelor of arts degree focuses on the humanities while a bachelor of science emphasizes math and science. When it comes to geography, both degrees include the same core geographic principles and a focus on understanding the earth’s landscapes, environments and relationships between people and places.
Students in both programs typically take introductory courses in human and physical geography, cartography and geographic research methods and learn to think spatially. Both degrees can also lead to a variety of opportunities in areas such as natural resource management or planning and working with geographic information systems (GIS).
Differences
Typically, a bachelor of arts degree provides a broader education that includes a curriculum in liberal arts, humanities and social sciences. Students can take electives in a wide range of courses and subjects, including math and science, but it’s typically not to the extent that a B.S. degree offers. The Bachelor of Arts in Geography is ideal for students who are interested in spatial and human dimensions of places, cities and regions.
A bachelor of science degree provides students with more specialized knowledge in a particular field, such as chemistry, business or healthcare. As a result, students typically take fewer electives outside their major, focusing more on coursework in math, science and technology. This structure also applies to a Bachelor of Science in Geography, which is tailored for students interested in concepts and issues related to the environment, earth processes, atmospheric processes, climate or GIScience.
Curriculum Differences
As mentioned earlier, both degree programs will offer similar introductory courses.
B.A. in Geography
Students will explore concepts and issues related to population dynamics and migration, globalization, planning, economic development, transportation systems, connectivity and accessibility, segregation, and urban growth and decline. These themes are explored at the local, regional and global levels.
Examples of course titles include:
- Intro to Human Geography
- Methods in Geography
- Urban Geography
- Geography of Europe
- Political Geography
B.S. in Geography
Students will learn about ecology, weather analysis, meteorology, climatology, hurricanes and other types of severe weather, in addition to GIS spatial analysis and technologies. Some degree programs may allow you to specialize in a particular area, such as climate change, biogeography, meteorology or weather broadcasting.
Examples of course titles include:
- Meteorology
- Environmental Geography
- Principles of Geographic Information Systems
- Climatology
- Remote Sensing
Strengths & Skills to Consider
You’re interested in a geography degree, but which one is right for you? Here are some key considerations as you research both types of program.
A Bachelor of Arts in Geography tends to include more critical thinking skills and opportunities for creative thinking. The courses often have more of a focus on writing and presenting with numerous opportunities for group discussion.
A Bachelor of Science in Geography emphasizes the technical and scientific aspects of the field. Students typically gain skills and experience in computer programming, statistical analysis and modeling. This type of program focuses on quantitative methods, computer data analysis and geospatial technologies, making it an excellent choice if you have a strong interest in math, science or technical skills.
What Can I Do With a Geography Degree?
The short answer: a lot. A degree in geography can unlock a wide range of career opportunities in various fields, including:
- Federal agencies
- Nonprofits
- Local city and town governments
- Regional/city planning agencies
- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
- Military and intelligence agencies
- Higher educational institutions
- Public schools
- Businesses in the private sector
- Cultural and tourism organizations
A degree in geography prepares you to address key challenges such as economic development, globalization and territorial conflict. You will also be equipped to address human-environment challenges, such as climate change, sustainability and natural resource management.
Think of geography as the bridge between natural and social sciences and STEM disciplines. Depending on your focus, geography can encompass a diverse range of fields, including astronomy, environmental science and biology, as well as data science, information technology, civil engineering and statistics.
With a degree in geography, you’ll be equipped for a wide range of careers, including roles such as:
- Educator
- Surveyor
- Geospatial analyst
- Computer programmer
- GIS specialist
- Geopolitical analyst
- Urban planner
- Environmental scientist
- Cartographer
- Environmental consultant
Examples of Companies & Organizations Hiring Graduates With a Geography Degree
Here’s a glimpse of some notable companies and organizations actively hiring graduates with degrees in geography.
- State of West Virginia
- National Weather Service
- Environmental Protection Agency
- U.S. Geological Survey
- United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service
- Sierra Club
- Office of Climate Change, Sustainability, and Resiliency, City and County of Honolulu
- City of Palm Springs, California
- Colorado Preservation, Inc.
B.A. vs. B.S. in Geography: Comparison Chart
Here’s a quick side-by-side look at the two degrees.
| B.S. in Geography | B.A. in Geography | |
|---|---|---|
| Definition of Degree | Focus on the physical environment and/or geospatial technologies | Focus on human activities and systems |
| Examples of Required Courses | Principles of GIS | Human Geography |
| Amount of Credit Hours Needed to Complete Degree* | 45 in geography, 120 total | 39 in geography, 120 total |
| Examples of Job Titles |
|
|
| Salary Range(s) | Will depend on the role, responsibilities, how much experience is required and location. Examples of average salaries include: | |
| Who is this Degree Best For? | Those interested in GIS or the natural environment | Those interested in human activities as they interact with the environment |
* This relates specifically to Marshall University’s geography programs. Others may differ in terms of credits and credit hours.
A degree in geography can definitely be a worthwhile investment, depending on your interests and career goals. If you’re curious about roles that combine scientific and social skills with a focus on people, places and community interactions, this type of degree could be ideal for you. It’s also extremely beneficial for certain roles within urban planning and developing, environmental consulting, GIS and remote sensing and teaching and research.
Geography majors are equipped for a variety of roles in federal agencies, local governments, NGOs, nonprofits, colleges and universities, the private sector and beyond. Potential jobs include urban planner, environmental consultant, GIS specialist, teacher, geographer, meteorologist and many more.
Some of the highest-paying geography jobs include geospatial engineer, GIS engineer, GIS manager, GIS software developer, geotechnical engineer and GIS consultant. Many of these roles offer salaries close to $100,000, and in some cases, much more.
In general, yes, you will be expected to complete certain levels and types of math courses, depending on the specific focus on the degree. A Bachelor of Arts in Geography often has more basic, college-level math requirements, whereas a B.S. in Geography typically includes more advanced math, such as calculus and statistics.
The required courses will vary by program and where you’re pursuing a B.A. or B.S., but they typically include a mix of core geography content, technical skills and electives.
A Bachelor of Arts in Geography focuses on human activities and systems, including areas such as culture, politics, economics and social interactions. This degree often integrates content from the humanities and social sciences. A Bachelor of Science in Geography has a stronger math and science focus and focuses on the physical environment and/or geospatial technologies.
Discover the Benefits of a Geography Degree From Marshall University
Marshall University offers both a B.A. and B.S. in Geography, as well as minors in Geography and Meteorology. Students can also pursue a GIScience minor or certificate, gaining valuable skills in geospatial technologies.
Students pursuing a B.S. in Geography can specialize in exciting areas of emphasis, including Weather Broadcasting, Meteorology, or GIScience, tailoring their education to align with their career goals.
With knowledgeable instructors, an up-to-date curriculum and the support of the welcoming Marshall community, graduates consistently praise the program for its quality and the opportunities it provides. Plus, students can finish their B.A. or B.S. in Geography 100% online!
For more information about the on-campus degree program, contact Dr. Jonathan Kozar, and to learn about the online degree program, contact Dr. Hilton Córdoba. Both are distinguished assistant professors of geography at Marshall University.