Navigate the world. Plan the future.
Study geography, geographic information science or urban planning
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics defines an education in the liberal arts and sciences as “an approach to learning that involves diverse coursework so students develop a range of knowledge.” In other words, a degree in the liberal arts and sciences does not limit you to a specific career – you are free to pursue endless opportunities, having developed critical thinking, communication, career-readiness and other skills.
Degree programs at the School of Geographical Sciences and Urban Planning prepare you for success in today’s job market.
The School of Geographical Sciences and Urban Planning offers premier programs for students eager to understand the world and make a difference. Our transdisciplinary approach blends geography, geographic information systems and urban planning, making our students versatile candidates for the job market and poised to make incredible research discoveries.
The school offers 1:1 career and internship advising, majorspecific career development resources, the opportunity to earn credit and industry experience simultaneously through an internship course and an annual networking event where students connect with top employers in government and private sectors.
Over 90% of employers said they prefer to hire a candidate who shows ethical judgment and integrity, intercultural skills and the capacity for continued new learning.
93% of employers agree that “a candidate’s capacity to think critically, communicate clearly and solve complex problems is more important than their undergraduate major.”
Career outcomes
• • Urban and regional planner Remote sensing analyst Cartographer Climatologist Geospatial data analyst GIS specialist Transportation planner Land surveyor
Scott L. earned his BSP in urban planning while working for the California Department of Housing and Community Development. After graduating, he started as a transportation planner with the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) where he applied his GIS skills and managed development proposals and grants. He now serves as the Emergency Functions Branch Chief at Caltrans Headquarters overseeing statewide emergency response efforts.
Clayton G. graduated in 2024 with a degree in geographic information science. His studies were instrumental in preparing him for a GIS internship with the Utah Five County Association of Governments within the Dixie Metropolitan Planning Organization. He enhanced his ArcGIS Suitability Analysis skills, which are crucial in the GIS world and are regularly requested by government agencies and private companies.
SGSUP has prepared me for this internship and my future career by exposing me to current urban and transportation issues. The program’s focus on sustainability and resiliency offers a unique perspective on how transit impacts communities, enhancing my project collaboration skills.”
Sean G. Intern, Valley Metro Current student, BSP in urban planning
I took a course on developing geospatial web applications that inspired me to build software to help solve complex problems. Now a software engineer at Esri, I develop techniques for visualizing geospatial data in ArcGIS Online and my research includes building AI assistants to enhance mapping workflows.”
Kristian E. Software engineer, Esri Master’s degree in geographic information systems (MAS-GIS), 2014
Leading the way in solving societal and environmental challenges
The School of Geographical Sciences and Urban Planning advances geospatial knowledge for a complex world, emphasizing education, research and applied solutions to solve urban and environmental problems.
Leading climate research, including the Southwest Urban Integrated Field Laboratory (SW-IFL) and Urban Climate Research Center (UCRC).
$34 million in funded research over the past five years.
Transdisciplinary applications for GIS and Earth mapping through the Spatial Analysis Research Center (SPARC).
Flexible degrees including fully online options. Whether you are interested in spatial data science, city planning and housing or the intersections of people and planet, you can gain the tools you need to succeed.