With facilities and programs rivaling those at larger institutions, and a close-knit community you can only find at small colleges, the Carthage Geography and Earth Science Department offers students a rigorous academic program packed with opportunity and personal attention.

At Carthage, geography students select courses that suit their specific career goals, whether they hope to concentrate in physical geography, economic geography, urban planning, or another aspect of the field. Carthage offers minors in Geographic Information Science (GIS) and Meteorology/Climatology. Majors graduate ready to hit the job market or to further their education in graduate school.

Understanding the Field

Geographers and earth scientists study spatial patterns to discover underlying natural and human processes at work in the hydrosphere, atmosphere, lithosphere and biosphere. They are concerned with the physical characteristics and processes of the earth's surface and atmosphere; the activities of people that have modified the natural landscape; and the origins of and changes in cultural landscapes. Studying geography and earth science prepares majors for real-world problem solving, as many societal problems have geographic dimensions, including water management, agricultural productivity, environmental quality, hunger, crime, urban housing, and transportation.
Related: What is the study of geography and earth science?

Undergraduate Research Opportunities

Giving students opportunities to do real research, guided by faculty, is a priority in the Natural Sciences Division at Carthage. The Geography and Earth Science Department continues this emphasis in and out of the classroom. Programs like the Summer Undergraduate Research Experience give students significant research experiences that go beyond textbook projects. "At Carthage, students really get an opportunity to work with faculty individually, and that's just not found other places," said Dr. Julio Rivera, Provost of Carthage and a professor of Geography and Earth Science.

Career Advancement

Carthage sees geography as a modern applied science that retains its ancient, traditional role in the liberal arts. Students are prepared for productive and rewarding careers, while developing the thought processes, qualities and habits that are the hallmark of a liberally educated person. Students learn to apply their science to a wide variety of fields, from business and government, to health care and education.

Prof. Julio Rivera leads a class on the Carthage campus.

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J-Term in Nicaragua

This annual trip allows Carthage students to explore the geography of Ometepe, and treat patients in the island's medical clinics. Watch the video.

Student Voices

"The professors I’ve had are amazing. They welcome questions with open arms. They love to be challenged as well as challenge their students."

— Sarah Geise, '11, Waukesha, Wis.

Hear what students have to say about studying geography and earth science at Carthage.