Geography
Geography
Explore Cultural and Physical Landscapes Through Interdisciplinary Studies
Program Overview
Curious about the Earth’s physical and cultural environments and their interconnectedness? The Geography program at College of Western Idaho (CWI) is a fascinating multidisciplinary journey into understanding our world. This program emphasizes contemporary concepts, geospatial technologies, and critical thinking, preparing you for a myriad of career opportunities in fields like environmental planning, urban planning, natural resources, and demography.
With an Associate of Arts degree that fulfills general-education requirements at Idaho public universities, this program also offers the option to earn a Geographic Information Systems (GIS) certificate concurrently by choosing relevant electives. The interdisciplinary approach of this program provides a unique lens to explore various global issues, from climate change to urban development, through geographical perspectives.
Learning Opportunities
- GIS Certificate Option: Enhance your geography degree with practical skills in GIS, beneficial for a range of technical careers.
- Versatile Career Pathways: Prepare for careers in environmental planning, urban planning, natural resources, marketing, GIS, and more.
- Interdisciplinary Learning: Explore climate change, urban development, or cultural diversity with an interdisciplinary approach.
- Skill Development: Develop analytical, computer, data visualization, critical thinking, and communication skills essential for geographers.
- Hands-On Learning: Engage with geospatial technologies such as GIS, GPS, and remote sensing, vital for modern geographical studies.
Areas of Study
Degrees & Certificates
Geography – Associate of Arts Degree
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Career Opportunities
779
Annual Openings*
$
36.02
Hourly Median Wage*
$
74,921
Annual Median Salary
10.07
%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
All managers not listed separately.
345
Annual Openings*
$
35.92
Hourly Median Wage*
$
74,713
Annual Median Salary
20.72
%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Perform surveying and mapping duties, usually under the direction of an engineer, surveyor, cartographer, or photogrammetrist, to obtain data used for construction, mapmaking, boundary location, mining, or other purposes. May calculate mapmaking information and create maps from source data, such as surveying notes, aerial photography, satellite data, or other maps to show topographical features, political boundaries, and other features. May verify accuracy and completeness of maps.
40
Annual Openings*
$
22.68
Hourly Median Wage*
$
47,174
Annual Median Salary
13.64
%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
*Data sourced from Lightcast™ (2023), a global leader in labor market analytics, and limited to the state of Idaho. Contact CWI Institutional Research for questions regarding this data. Career pathways may require further education beyond CWI.
"CWI has a sense of community and family that is hard to find at larger institutions." Read More >
Admissions
Step 1
- Apply to CWI.
- Choose Geography as your major.
Step 2
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
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Cost & Aid
As a student in this program, you may be eligible for financial aid and scholarships.
Enrichment Opportunities
Enhance your academic experience, expand your knowledge, reach your goals, and celebrate your achievements.
Advising
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Transfer Information
Plan ahead for a smooth transition to a four-year college or university.
Related Programs
Geographic Information Systems
A Gateway to Exciting Career Opportunities with Hands-On GIS Training
Geosciences
Integrated, Hands-On Studies Preparing You for a Career or to Transfer On
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