The mission of the Department of Geography at the University of South Florida is threefold: 1) to conduct basic and applied research; 2) to provide exceptional, quality education and professional development opportunitiesat the undergraduate and graduate levels; and 3) to serve the region, community, and the university. Teaching and research themes focus on: (i) Environmental Processes and Policy, (ii) Environmental Hazards, Sustainable Communities, and Vulnerability Assessment, (iii) Geographic Information Sciences, (iv) Globalization and International Development, and (v) Urban and Regional Development and Planning. The Department maintains a strong international focus and undertakes research in many settings in North America and throughout the world, particularly Africa, Asia (particularly China, India, and the Middle East), Europe, and Latin America. The Department encourages engaged teaching and scholarship within communities and has strong connections with community partners in the Tampa Bay region and many other locations around the world.
The department offers six degree programs and three graduate certificate programs. There is a BA in Geography and a BS in Environmental Science and Policy, an MA in Geography, an MA in Urban and Regional Planning, an MS in Environmental Science and Policy, an integrated Ph.D. in Geography and Environmental Science and Policy and three graduate and one undergraduate certificates. The Department is also home to the USF Botanical Gardens, the College’s Community Initiative Program, the USF Weather Station, the GIS and Cartographic Services Laboratory, and the Center for Brownfields Rehabilitation. The undergraduate programs offer a broad education in geography and environmental science and policy, which, combined with undergraduate research and practical knowledge, provides the necessary experience for a range of employment opportunities. The undergraduate certificate in Urban Studies provides opportunities for in-depth examination of urban topics. The masters’ degrees develop hands-on research undertaken with faculty mentors. The graduate certificate in GIS is designed for advanced learners interested in spatial information systems, the graduate certificate in Environmental Management and Policy focuses on training individuals in managing complex issues related to the environment, and the Community Development certificate promotes engaged scholarship. The doctoral degree is designed for advanced students specializing in research at the cutting edge of the discipline.
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