Program Website

The Department of Geography originated as Florida's first university geography program. It is also the administrative home for the Environmental Science Program. Both geography and environmental science are fields of critical demand in these times of environmental degradation and uncertainty. As geographers, we approach the analysis of environments by emphasizing space, place, and the effects of landscape processes at local, regional, and global levels. Tools of the trade include maps, spatial analysis, and critical review. Geography is among the classic academic disciplines and includes the study of earth systems, human culture, and interactions among them. It is a major that prepares one for a wide range of careers dealing with local and global issues.

Faculty

Our faculty are:

• J. Anthony Abbott, Ph.D., University of Minnesota; Associate Professor Specialty area: political ecology, Latin America, sustainability Current research: renewable energy systems and policy, carbon accounting, sustainable agriculture.
• Bruce C. Bradford, (Chair) Ph.D., Pennsylvania State University; Professor Specialty area: population dynamics; human-environmental interaction in Russia Current research: changing demography of the Russian Federation.

Special Features

Both geography and environmental science curricula take full advantage of Stetson University's unique location in Central Florida. The immediate area is noted for its natural beauty, mix of biodiverse landscapes, unique freshwater systems, and innovative environmental policy. We are lucky that geographers and environmental science majors benefit from a mix of ecosystems and environmental management institutions, useful for local and regional research. Most our majors conduct their research for their Senior Project locally.

Course Information

The department offers a full slate of geography courses spanning the three traditional areas of geographic expertise: regions (Americas and Russia), techniques (field work, mapping, GPS, and GIS), and theory (principles of human-environment interaction).

Internship Opportunities

Students participate in internships with public or private institutions to hone skills and apply experience outside the classroom.

Career Opportunities

Geographic information scientist (GIS), computer mapping, environmental consultant, teacher/professor, environmental law, impact assessment specialist, environmental engineering, travel consultant, international development, land-use planning

Alumni Highlights

• Brent Barkett, Summit Blue Consulting (Boulder, CO)
• Heather Grove, Udall Fellow 2011
• Jaclyn Hall, Research Fellow Land Use and Environmental Change Institute, University of Florida
• Jessica Hodal, an Education Intern with National Geographic Society in Washington D.C.
• Tung Huynh, at Clark University pursuing Masters degree as a Fellow in the International Development, Community, and Environmental Program
• Erin McCullough, Graduate student at University of New Mexico
• Amanda McKenzie, Program Manager, National Education Travel Council (Boston, MA)
• Peyton McLeod, Sprinkle Consulting Inc. (Tampa, FL)
• Ray Oldakowski, Jacksonville University, professor
• William Roll, Tindale Oliver & Associates, Transportation Planner

Clubs and Organizations

The Geography Department is host to the international honorary society for geography, Gamma Theta Upsilon (GTU). Our local chapter of GTU, Beta Rho, has been active since the 1960s.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Stetson University has a wide variety of financial aid programs for qualified students.

Department Awards

The Gamma Theta Upsilon Excellence in Geography Award is available to outstanding geography majors in the department.

Contact:
Bruce Bradford
386-822-7332
bbradfor@stetson.edu

Full Time Faculty: 2

Degrees Offered:

• Bachelor of Science in Geography

Our Graduates Attend:

• Baylor University
• Florida Atlantic University
• Florida International University
• Johns Hopkins University
• Rhode Island School of Design
• Stetson University College of Law
• University of Central Florida
• University of Colorado-Boulder
• University of Florida
• University of Georgia
• University of South Florida
• University of New Mexico
• Clark University

Our Students Intern at:

• City of DeLand
• Florida State Parks System
• U.S. Geological Survey
• Volusia County Department of Environmental Management
• National Geographic Society
• USDA