Overview

The Geography programme at San Diego State University provides students with a deep understanding of the spatial relationships that define our physical and social worlds. By integrating theories from both the social and physical sciences, the curriculum addresses how human activities and natural processes shape the earth's surface. Students gain the technical expertise and theoretical knowledge necessary to tackle modern environmental and societal challenges.

Why Geography at San Diego State University?

San Diego State University hosts one of the most established and largest departments of its kind in the region, offering a dynamic environment for spatial research. The faculty are engaged in globally significant studies, ranging from Amazonian deforestation to urban social justice and climate resilience. Students benefit from a binational and environmentally diverse setting that serves as a living laboratory for applying classroom concepts.

The department provides exceptional resources, including advanced computer and laboratory facilities located in Storm Hall. Undergraduates are encouraged to participate in funded research positions, local and global internships, and out-of-classroom learning experiences such as field trips and study abroad options. Dedicated academic advising and a supportive student community further enhance the educational experience.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 14130 per year
National fee: USD 14130 per year
Local fee: USD 6838 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured around core foundations in physical and human geography, supplemented by technical methodologies. Modules may include:

Physical Geography
Human Geography
Geographic Information Systems
Earth’s Physical Environment
Regional Geography
Environmental Geography
Geographic Methods
Urban Geography
Climatology

Careers with Geography

Graduates from the programme are well-prepared for diverse professional roles across government agencies, non-profit organisations, and the private sector. The analytical and technical skills gained during the course allow alumni to pursue careers in environmental planning, urban development, and resource management. Many graduates also find success in specialised technical fields such as remote sensing and spatial data analysis.

Recent alumni have secured various professional positions, including:

Urban and Transportation Planner
GIS Analyst for water resources
Environmental Scientist
Remote Sensing Specialist
Conservation Coordinator
Hydrology Field Technician
Public Health Researcher
Restoration Ecologist

The broad nature of the degree also provides a strong foundation for further academic study. Many students progress to postgraduate programmes in fields such as public health, regional planning, or advanced geographic research to further specialise their expertise.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Sustainable Place Practice

Severe Weather

Culture Worlds

United States

Latin America

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-24 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-04-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00 , National

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

105

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TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

San Diego, United States

Disciplines

Geography View 453 other Bachelors in Geography in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

National

Admission application through the Cal State Apply website (online)

Unofficial transcripts

Your Social Security Number, if you have one.

Your citizenship status.

Credit card. Application fees are due at the time of submission and are paid by credit card.

Annual income. If you are a dependent, then report your parents income. If you are independent, then report your income.

Your parent's employment background and two recommendations. This applies only if you are applying to the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP).

International

Completion of high school/secondary level

SAT/ACT Tests

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

14130 USD / year

≈ 14130 USD / year
Out-of-State

14130 USD / year

≈ 14130 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

6838 USD / year

≈ 6838 USD / year

Living costs

San Diego

United States

1400 - 2455 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Geography.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

San Diego

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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