Northern Arizona University

What you'll study

The programme integrates physical geography, human geography and environmental studies to give a broad understanding of environment–society interactions. Core topics typically include climate and weather systems, biogeography, hydrology, soil science, land‑use and resource management, and environmental policy.

Applied and skills modules emphasise geospatial technologies and quantitative methods: geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, cartography, spatial analysis and statistics. Fieldwork and laboratory classes train practical data‑collection and analysis techniques, while seminar or capstone projects develop research, communication and project management abilities.

• Typical modules: Physical Geography, Human Geography, Environmental Systems, GIS and Cartography, Remote Sensing, Hydrology, Conservation and Natural Resource Management, Environmental Policy and Planning, Field Methods, Statistics for Geographers, Capstone/Research Project.
• Structure: A mix of general education requirements, major core courses, electives within geography and environmental studies, and experiential learning such as field courses, internships or a supervised capstone research project.
• Learning methods: Lectures, laboratories, computer‑based GIS practicals, guided fieldwork in varied landscapes, group projects and independent research.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold an accredited secondary school qualification or equivalent. Admissions typically consider academic record, strength of relevant coursework (for example mathematics, earth or biological sciences), and demonstrated interest in environmental or geographic topics. NAU welcomes applications from first‑year and transfer students; transfer applicants are assessed on previous college credits and GPA.

Recommended preparation includes: college preparatory mathematics, a laboratory science (biology, chemistry or earth science), and coursework or extracurricular experience that shows engagement with environmental or geographic issues. International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of careers across environmental management, planning, conservation and geospatial analysis. Common entry roles include GIS analyst, environmental consultant, conservation technician, natural resource planner, sustainability coordinator and field technician for government or non‑profit organisations. The degree also provides a strong foundation for further study at master’s level in geography, environmental science, urban and regional planning or related fields.

Work experience, internships and the capstone project are key to employability; students often secure placements with federal and state land management agencies, conservation NGOs, environmental consultancies and local government planning departments.

Why study at Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University offers a programme grounded in field‑based learning and hands‑on skill development. Located in Flagstaff, NAU provides ready access to a wide range of landscapes—from forested mountains to high desert and nearby national parks—supporting real‑world field courses and research opportunities.

Students benefit from strong geospatial and environmental science facilities, opportunities to work with active research faculty, and community partnerships with agencies such as the US Forest Service and National Park Service. Smaller class sizes help students get direct faculty mentorship, and university career services support internships and job placement in environmental professions.