M.S. in Emergency Health Services
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B.A. in Geography and Environmental Studies
Baltimore, Maryland
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The B.A. in Geography and Environmental Studies program at the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC) offers a comprehensive interdisciplinary approach to understanding the interactions between human societies and their environments.
STEM-Designated: The program is STEM-designated, emphasizing rigorous training in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics related to environmental issues, geographic analysis, and spatial data science. Students develop critical thinking skills, quantitative analysis abilities, and technical expertise essential for addressing complex environmental challenges.
Curriculum: The curriculum integrates courses in physical geography, environmental science, geospatial analysis, urban and regional planning, and sustainability studies. Students study topics such as climate change, natural resource management, environmental policy, GIS (Geographic Information Systems), remote sensing, and environmental justice. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through fieldwork, laboratory exercises, and internships, preparing students for careers in environmental management, spatial analysis, and sustainability.
Research Focus: UMBC's B.A. in Geography and Environmental Studies program emphasizes research, offering students opportunities to engage in field research, laboratory experiments, and collaborative projects with faculty and industry partners. Research areas include climate resilience, land use planning, ecosystem conservation, spatial modeling, and environmental impact assessment. Students develop research skills, data analysis techniques, and critical thinking abilities essential for advancing knowledge and solving environmental challenges.
Industry Engagement: The program fosters industry engagement through internships, partnerships with environmental organizations, government agencies, and private sector firms. Students gain practical experience in environmental consulting, GIS analysis, urban planning, environmental education, and policy advocacy. Industry partnerships provide opportunities for networking, professional development, and job placement in environmental science, sustainability, and geographic information management sectors.
Global Perspective: UMBC's B.A. in Geography and Environmental Studies program integrates a global perspective by examining environmental issues through international case studies, comparative analysis of environmental policies, and global sustainability challenges. Courses explore topics such as global environmental governance, transboundary water management, sustainable development goals (SDGs), and environmental impacts of globalization. Students analyze how global trends and policies shape local environments and communities, preparing them to address environmental issues on a global scale.
Location
Baltimore, Maryland
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 30322
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 60% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 115.
Scholarships for International Students at the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC).
International Student Scholarships: UMBC offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students to support their educational expenses. These scholarships may be merit-based, need-based, or a combination of both. They are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership potential, extracurricular involvement, and other criteria.
UMBC Merit Scholarships: UMBC offers merit-based scholarships to both undergraduate and graduate international students. These scholarships are awarded to students with exceptional academic achievements, leadership qualities, and community involvement. The selection process for these scholarships is competitive, and students are typically considered based on their application materials, including academic transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.
Departmental Scholarships: Various departments and academic programs at UMBC may offer scholarships specifically for international students within their respective fields. These scholarships may be discipline-specific and target students who demonstrate exceptional abilities and potential in a particular area of study. International students are advised to inquire with their intended department or program about any available scholarships or funding opportunities.
External Scholarships: International students studying at UMBC may also be eligible for external scholarships provided by organizations, foundations, and government agencies. These scholarships can be based on various criteria such as academic excellence, leadership, community service, or specific fields of study. Students are encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities in their home countries or through international scholarship databases.
Fulbright Scholarships: UMBC participates in the Fulbright Program, which offers scholarships to international students from over 160 countries. The Fulbright scholarships support graduate study, research, and teaching assistantships at UMBC. Eligibility criteria and application processes for Fulbright scholarships may vary depending on the student's home country. Interested international students can contact the Fulbright Commission or Embassy in their home country for more information.
Global Ambassador Scholarships: UMBC's Global Ambassador Scholarships are designed for international students who demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding on campus. These scholarships provide financial support and an opportunity for international students to engage in outreach activities, cultural programs, and campus initiatives that promote global perspectives and intercultural exchange.
International Education Foundation (IEF) Scholarships: The International Education Foundation offers scholarships to international students studying at UMBC. These scholarships are aimed at supporting students who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership skills, and a commitment to community service. The IEF scholarships are awarded based on a competitive application process, and students are required to submit an essay and letters of recommendation.
It is important for international students to carefully review the eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and required documents for each scholarship opportunity.
Graduates of UMBC's B.A. in Geography and Environmental Studies program acquire a diverse skill set and interdisciplinary knowledge that prepares them for various career paths in environmental management, urban planning, geographic information systems (GIS), sustainability, and more.
Environmental Consultant: Environmental consultants work with businesses, government agencies, and non-profit organizations to assess environmental impacts, develop strategies for environmental compliance, and implement sustainable practices. They conduct environmental assessments, analyze data, and provide recommendations for mitigating environmental risks.
Urban and Regional Planner: Urban and regional planners develop land use plans and policies that promote sustainable development, economic growth, and community well-being. They assess current land use patterns, conduct demographic studies, and collaborate with stakeholders to create plans for transportation, housing, and infrastructure projects.
GIS Specialist/Analyst: GIS specialists use geographic information systems (GIS) technology to analyze spatial data, create maps, and solve spatial problems in various industries, including environmental science, urban planning, and natural resource management. They collect data, perform spatial analysis, and communicate findings to support decision-making processes.
Environmental Policy Analyst: Environmental policy analysts research and analyze environmental policies, regulations, and legislation at local, state, and federal levels. They assess the impact of policies on environmental issues such as climate change, air quality, water resources, and biodiversity conservation, and make recommendations for policy improvements.
Sustainability Officer/Manager: Sustainability officers/managers develop and implement sustainability initiatives within organizations to reduce environmental impact, improve resource efficiency, and promote social responsibility. They assess environmental performance, engage stakeholders, and advocate for sustainable practices across operations and supply chains.
Environmental Educator: Environmental educators work in schools, museums, nature centers, and non-profit organizations to educate students and the public about environmental issues, conservation practices, and sustainable living. They develop educational programs, lead workshops, and conduct outreach activities to promote environmental awareness and inspire action.
Natural Resource Manager: Natural resource managers oversee the conservation and sustainable use of natural resources such as forests, wildlife habitats, and water resources. They develop management plans, monitor ecosystem health, and collaborate with stakeholders to balance environmental conservation with human needs.
Non-profit/NGO Environmental Advocate: Non-profit organizations and NGOs employ environmental advocates to raise awareness about environmental issues, advocate for policy changes, and mobilize communities to take action on issues such as climate change, pollution prevention, and habitat conservation. Advocates engage in grassroots organizing, lobbying, and public outreach campaigns.
