About Geography at UW Oshkosh

Program Goals and Intended Student Learning Outcomes

The primary mission of the Geography Department is to provide students with an understanding of geographic concepts and skills within the context of a liberal arts education.  An additional mission is to provide students with knowledge and skills enabling them to successfully gain employment or attend Graduate school in Geography or related disciplines.

Demonstrated Knowledge and Understanding of the Fundamental Themes in Geography

• Students will be able to identify, understand, and synthesize the basic components and processes that create the physical and biotic landscapes found on the earth
• Students will be able to identify, understand, and synthesize the basic themes and patterns of human activities that create the cultural, economic, and political landscapes found on the earth
• Students will be able to apply knowledge of the fundamental components and processes of physical and human geography in the analysis and formulation of possible solutions for environmental and social problems

Research Skills and Geospatial Techniques

• Students will be able to analyze and interpret spatial data and produce quality maps by utilizing effective cartographic techniques and Geographic Information Science technologies
• Students will be able to conduct in-depth analysis of and explore possible solutions to environmental and social problems while demonstrating effective written and oral communication skills

Global Engagement

• Students will be able to recognize and analyze the environmental, social, and spatial connections between geography and globalization
• Students will be able to demonstrate an awareness and understanding of the complexity and diversity of global cultures
• Students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the impact humans have on the environment at local and global scales and pathways that make this impact sustainable