State University of New York at New Paltz

What you'll study

The programme blends core geographic theory with practical cartographic and geospatial skills. You will study physical geography topics such as geomorphology, climatology and hydrology alongside human geography themes including urban and economic geography. Technical coursework focuses on cartographic design, geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, spatial analysis and geodatabases.

• Introductory and intermediate physical and human geography
• Cartographic design and visualisation, including map composition and symbolism
• GIS fundamentals, spatial databases and spatial statistics
• Remote sensing and image interpretation
• Field methods, data collection and GPS techniques
• Geospatial programming and automation (e.g. scripting for GIS workflows)
• Capstone project or senior portfolio emphasising applied mapping and research

The curriculum typically mixes lectures, computer labs, studio sessions and fieldwork. Students build a portfolio of maps and spatial analyses and can choose electives that emphasise environment, planning, conservation or advanced geospatial methods. Opportunities exist to undertake internships with regional planning agencies, environmental groups and private GIS firms.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school qualification or equivalent; specific admissions decisions are made by the university and consider academic performance, course selection and the overall application. Strong preparation in mathematics and a science or social science is advantageous. Applicants for whom English is not a first language must meet the university's English proficiency requirements.

For students with relevant experience or a particular interest in cartography, submitting a short portfolio of maps, design work or spatial projects can strengthen an application, though a portfolio is not always mandatory. Transfer students with college‑level coursework in geography, GIS or allied fields are considered under the university's transfer admission policies.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for entry‑level roles in mapping and geospatial fields and for further study. Typical career paths include:

• GIS technician or analyst in public agencies, utilities or private firms
• Cartographer and map designer for publishers, museums or online platforms
• Remote sensing or spatial data specialist in environmental consulting
• Planning technician or assistant in local government and regional planning bodies
• Surveying support roles and geospatial project coordination
• Further study at graduate level in geography, GIS, urban planning or environmental management

Alumni also move into education, non‑profit conservation, transportation planning and location‑based business intelligence, where mapping and spatial thinking are highly valued.

Why study at State University of New York at New Paltz

New Paltz offers a department environment that emphasises applied learning and small class sizes, allowing close contact with faculty with expertise in both human and physical geography and in geospatial technologies. The university maintains dedicated GIS and cartography labs equipped for map production, spatial analysis and remote sensing coursework.

The Hudson Valley setting provides a varied landscape for field courses — from river systems and upland forests to urban centres — giving students practical, local research opportunities. Strong regional links to planning agencies, environmental organisations and GIS employers help students secure internships and applied projects that build workplace‑relevant skills.