B.S. in Geography

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% 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 79 or higher.
• PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 115.

ISU offers several scholarships and financial aid options for international students to help them pursue their academic goals. These scholarships are based on academic achievements, leadership skills, and other criteria. 

International Tuition Waiver: International students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance and show promise for contributing to the ISU community may be eligible for tuition waivers. These waivers can significantly reduce the cost of tuition.

Redbird Academic Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to incoming undergraduate international students who have outstanding academic records. The scholarship amount varies depending on the student's academic achievements.

Redbird International Ambassador Scholarship: This scholarship recognizes outstanding leadership skills and contributions to the international community. Recipients of this scholarship serve as ambassadors for international students at ISU.

College-Specific Scholarships: Various colleges within ISU offer scholarships for international students pursuing specific academic programs. These scholarships are often based on academic performance and potential for success in the chosen field of study.

Study Abroad Scholarships: ISU encourages international students to engage in study abroad programs to gain global experiences. The university offers scholarships to support international students' participation in these programs.

International students interested in applying for scholarships at ISU should review the specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines for each scholarship.

Graduates of Illinois State University's B.S. in Geography program have a wide range of career opportunities in various sectors that value spatial analysis, environmental understanding, and geographic information systems (GIS) expertise.

Urban Planner: Urban planners work with communities and governmental agencies to develop land use plans, transportation networks, and strategies for sustainable urban development. They analyze demographic data, environmental factors, and economic trends to create plans that enhance quality of life in urban areas.

GIS Specialist/Analyst: GIS specialists use geographic data to create maps, analyze spatial patterns, and solve geographic problems in fields such as urban planning, environmental conservation, public health, and disaster management. They work with GIS software to collect, manipulate, and visualize spatial data for decision-making.

Environmental Consultant: Environmental consultants assess the impact of human activities on natural environments, develop environmental management plans, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards. They work with government agencies, private firms, and non-profit organizations to address issues such as pollution control, land conservation, and sustainable development.

Cartographer: Cartographers design and produce maps for various purposes, including navigation, education, and resource management. They use GIS technology and graphic design software to create accurate and visually appealing maps that communicate spatial information effectively.

Geospatial Intelligence Analyst: Geospatial intelligence analysts support national security efforts by analyzing satellite imagery, geographic data, and other intelligence sources to identify threats, assess risks, and provide situational awareness. They work for government agencies, defense contractors, and intelligence organizations.

Transportation Planner: Transportation planners focus on designing efficient transportation systems, including roads, public transit networks, and bike lanes. They analyze traffic patterns, demographic data, and environmental impacts to develop transportation policies and infrastructure projects that enhance mobility and reduce congestion.

Remote Sensing Specialist: Remote sensing specialists use satellite imagery and aerial photographs to monitor environmental changes, map land use patterns, and assess natural disasters. They apply remote sensing techniques to environmental science, agriculture, forestry, and urban planning projects.

GIS Project Manager: GIS project managers oversee the implementation of GIS projects, coordinate team efforts, and ensure that projects meet client requirements and deadlines. They manage budgets, allocate resources, and communicate project progress to stakeholders in industries such as engineering, utilities, and natural resource management.