Those interested in learning more about Boise State University’s Environmental and Urban Studies program can learn from four visiting professors on Thursday, April 4.
Read more about Interested in Environmental and Urban Studies? Explore Boise State Transfer Opportunities at Panel EventGeography
Education to Explore the World's Wonders and Connections with Geography
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.
Degree or Certificate Type
Associate of Arts
Fully Online
Time to Complete
2 years
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.
Area of Study
Degrees & Certificates
Geography – Associate of Arts Degree
Available Fully Online
Degree RequirementsCareer Opportunities
Managers, All Other
All managers not listed separately.
279
Annual Openings*
$24.55
Hourly Median Wage*
$51,064
Annual Median Salary
39.33%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Computer Occupations, All Other
All computer occupations not listed separately. Excludes “Computer and Information Systems Managers” (11-3021), “Computer Hardware Engineers” (17-2061), “Electrical and Electronics Engineers” (17-2070), “Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary” (25-1021), “Special Effects Artists and Animators” (27-1014), “Graphic Designers” (27-1024), “Health Information Technologists and Medical Registrars” (29-9021), and “Computer, Automated Teller, and Office Machine Repairers” (49-2011).
73
Annual Openings*
$29.70
Hourly Median Wage*
$61,776
Annual Median Salary
35.64%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health
Conduct research or perform investigation for the purpose of identifying, abating, or eliminating sources of pollutants or hazards that affect either the environment or public health. Using knowledge of various scientific disciplines, may collect, synthesize, study, report, and recommend action based on data derived from measurements or observations of air, food, soil, water, and other sources. Excludes “Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists” (19-1023), “Conservation Scientists” (19-1031), “Forest and Conservation Technicians” (19-4071), “Occupational Health and Safety Specialists” (19-5011), “Fish and Game Wardens” (33-3031), and “Forest and Conservation Workers” (45-4011).
35
Annual Openings*
$30.65
Hourly Median Wage*
$63,752
Annual Median Salary
13.54%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Surveying and Mapping Technicians
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. Excludes “Cartographers and Photogrammetrists” (17-1021), “Surveyors" (17-1022), and “Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers” (19-2042).
22
Annual Openings*
$22.83
Hourly Median Wage*
$47,486
Annual Median Salary
14.54%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Social Science Research Assistants
Assist social scientists in laboratory, survey, and other social science research. May help prepare findings for publication and assist in laboratory analysis, quality control, or data management. Excludes “Teaching Assistants, Postsecondary” (25-9044).
18
Annual Openings*
$21.33
Hourly Median Wage*
$44,366
Annual Median Salary
34.7%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Apply theory and principles of civil engineering in planning, designing, and overseeing construction and maintenance of structures and facilities under the direction of engineering staff or physical scientists.
15
Annual Openings*
$23.53
Hourly Median Wage*
$48,942
Annual Median Salary
10.14%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Urban and Regional Planners
Develop comprehensive plans and programs for use of land and physical facilities of jurisdictions, such as towns, cities, counties, and metropolitan areas.
14
Annual Openings*
$30.13
Hourly Median Wage*
$62,670
Annual Median Salary
8.48%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Cartographers and Photogrammetrists
Research, study, and prepare maps and other spatial data in digital or graphic form for one or more purposes, such as legal, social, political, educational, and design purposes. May work with Geographic Information Systems (GIS). May design and evaluate algorithms, data structures, and user interfaces for GIS and mapping systems. May collect, analyze, and interpret geographic information provided by geodetic surveys, aerial photographs, and satellite data.
10
Annual Openings*
$29.13
Hourly Median Wage*
$60,590
Annual Median Salary
8.94%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Archivists
Appraise, edit, and direct safekeeping of permanent records and historically valuable documents. Participate in research activities based on archival materials.
6
Annual Openings*
$23.09
Hourly Median Wage*
$48,027
Annual Median Salary
-2.63%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Curators
Administer collections, such as artwork, collectibles, historic items, or scientific specimens of museums or other institutions. May conduct instructional, research, or public service activities of institution.
6
Annual Openings*
$8.56
Hourly Median Wage*
$17,805
Annual Median Salary
15.5%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians
Assist scientists or engineers in the use of electronic, sonic, or nuclear measuring instruments in laboratory, exploration, and production activities to obtain data indicating resources such as metallic ore, minerals, gas, coal, or petroleum. Analyze mud and drill cuttings. Chart pressure, temperature, and other characteristics of wells or bore holes.
5
Annual Openings*
$23.85
Hourly Median Wage*
$49,608
Annual Median Salary
10.71%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
Atmospheric and Space Scientists
Investigate atmospheric phenomena and interpret meteorological data, gathered by surface and air stations, satellites, and radar to prepare reports and forecasts for public and other uses. Includes weather analysts and forecasters whose functions require the detailed knowledge of meteorology.
4
Annual Openings*
$48.43
Hourly Median Wage*
$100,734
Annual Median Salary
-8.47%
Growth (2021 – 2031)*
*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.
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Admissions
Step 1
- Apply to CWI.
- Choose Geography as your major.
Step 2
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
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
Already a student? We are here to help you navigate your educational journey, connect you to academic and support resources, and achieve your academic or career goals.
Transfer Information
Plan ahead for a smooth transition to a four-year college or university.
News
Faculty from Boise State’s Environmental and Urban Studies Program will be on campus to discuss transfer opportunities, make connections, and help students explore career paths.
Read more about Environmental and Urban Studies Transfer OpportunitiesCongratulations to Kathy Guthrie, College of Western Idaho’s Staff of the Month for July 2019.
Read more about Staff of the Month—July 2019"CWI empowered me by showing me I am smart, outgoing, and able to do so many more things than I thought I could.”
Read more about A Better SelfDepartment Chair of History, Culture, and Politics, Dr. Justin Vance, has been named to the National Geographic Idaho Advisory Council.
Read more about Vance Named to National Geographic Idaho Advisory CouncilUniversity of Idaho geographer will lecture on his project mapping the militarization of police.
Read more about Geography Program Welcomes Dr. Steven M. RadilCollege of Western Idaho (CWI) has been sharing stories of success from several of this year’s graduates as we countdown to the 2017 commencement ceremony. The road traveled by students to arrive at...
Read more about Celebrating Student SuccessKelsey Wilber, who will graduate on May 13, 2017, came to CWI in 2014 to pursue her education after feeling “intellectually unsatisfied” and desiring a means to find her true potential.
Read more about Connection, Involvement, and OpportunityCollege of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Geography program presents, John Abatzoglou, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Geography at University of Idaho, on April 20 to discuss the topic of “How much has climate...
Read more about CWI Geography Program Hosts Guest SpeakerRequest More Information
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