M.S. in Geography

Entry Requirements for postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 70

Academic Requirements:

• Bachelor's Degree: Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution. The minimum academic requirement for postgraduate admission is typically a bachelor's degree with a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 60% or above.

English Language Proficiency Requirements: 

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 is required with no individual band score below 6.0.

• TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based Test): The minimum overall score required is 79.  

• DET (Duolingo English Test): Kent State University accepts the DET, with a minimum score of 110.

• PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum overall score of 58 is required.

Standardized Test Scores:

• GRE (Graduate Record Examination): A minimum overall GRE score of 300 is required.

Kent State University offers a range of scholarships to international students to help them manage the cost of tuition and make their education more affordable. 

1. Global Scholarship: The Global Scholarship is a merit-based award for undergraduate international students. It ranges from $2,000 to $7,500 per year and is renewable based on academic performance. Applicants are automatically considered for this scholarship upon admission.

2. International Freshman Scholarship: This scholarship is designed for first-time, incoming international undergraduate students. It provides awards ranging from $4,000 to $10,000 per year. Students are automatically considered when they apply for admission.

3. International Transfer Student Scholarship: Transfer students from international institutions are eligible for this scholarship, which offers awards from $4,000 to $9,500 per year. The scholarship is based on academic merit, and applicants are considered upon admission.

4. Kent State University Honors College Scholarship: Exceptional international undergraduate students may apply for the Honors College Scholarship. It covers in-state tuition and offers additional funding for research and study abroad opportunities.

5. Graduate Assistantships: Kent State University offers graduate assistantships to international students pursuing master's or doctoral degrees. These assistantships provide a stipend, tuition waiver, and valuable professional experience.

6. Graduate Dean's Award for Excellence: This award is for outstanding international graduate students and covers partial tuition costs. Eligibility and application details vary by department and program.

7. Global Diversity Scholarship: Kent State recognizes the value of diversity on campus. This scholarship, awarded to incoming undergraduate international students, provides $4,000 per year for up to four years.

8. Other Scholarships: Kent State University also offers various department-specific scholarships and awards. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria and application processes, so students should check with their academic departments.

9. External Scholarships: International students can explore external scholarship opportunities, such as government scholarships, private foundation scholarships, and international organizations' funding programs.

It's important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.

The Master of Science (M.S.) in Geography program at Kent State University opens doors to a diverse range of career opportunities in an ever-evolving global landscape. Geographers play a crucial role in understanding the world's complex spatial relationships, making them highly sought-after professionals in various sectors.The M.S. in Geography program at Kent State University equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to thrive in a wide array of professions.

1. GIS Analyst/Technician: Geographic Information Systems (GIS) professionals are in high demand across industries. Graduates can work as GIS analysts or technicians, utilizing spatial data to make informed decisions in fields such as urban planning, environmental management, and public health.

2. Urban and Regional Planning: Geographers often find rewarding careers as urban and regional planners. They contribute to sustainable urban development, land use management, and transportation planning, ensuring cities and regions function efficiently.

3. Environmental Consultant: With a focus on environmental geography, graduates can work as environmental consultants, assisting organizations and government agencies in managing and mitigating environmental issues, conducting impact assessments, and ensuring compliance with regulations.

4. Remote Sensing Specialist: The mastery of remote sensing technologies allows geographers to work as remote sensing specialists. They analyze satellite and aerial imagery for applications in agriculture, forestry, disaster management, and more.

5. Cartographer and Map Designer: For those with a passion for cartography and map design, careers as cartographers are ideal. They create maps for navigation, exploration, urban planning, and educational purposes.

6. Academic and Research Positions: Graduates interested in academia can pursue Ph.D. programs and secure faculty positions at universities and colleges. This path allows them to conduct research, publish findings, and educate the next generation of geographers.

7. Data Analyst: The ability to collect, analyze, and interpret geographic data makes geographers well-suited for roles as data analysts. They work in various sectors, including market research, business intelligence, and healthcare analytics.

8. Transportation and Logistics Planner: Geographers specializing in transportation geography play essential roles in optimizing transportation networks, managing supply chains, and enhancing logistics operations for businesses and government agencies.

9. International Development Specialist: Geographers with expertise in international development contribute to projects aimed at improving living conditions in developing countries. They work for non-governmental organizations (NGOs), international agencies, and governmental bodies.

10. Government Positions: Federal, state, and local governments hire geographers to work in areas like land use planning, natural resource management, and disaster response. Federal agencies like the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) offer numerous opportunities.