M.A. in Geography

Entry Requirements for International Students

Application Fees : US$ 90

For international students seeking postgraduate programs at the University of Arizona, certain entry requirements must be met. 

1. Academic Requirements: International students applying for postgraduate programs at UA are required to have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 70% or above. This academic benchmark demonstrates a solid foundation and academic capability, ensuring students are prepared for the rigor of graduate studies.

2. English Language Proficiency: UA accepts several standardized English language tests as evidence of language proficiency, including:

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum overall band score of 7 is required to meet the language requirement.
      
   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): A minimum score of 80 on the internet-base test (iBT) is necessary to fulfill the English language requirement.
      
   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): An overall score of 68 or higher is required.
      
3. Standardized Test Requirements: GRE 300

The University of Arizona offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students to support their academic journey. These scholarships are designed to recognize and reward outstanding academic achievements, leadership potential, and diverse backgrounds. 

1. Global Wildcat Scholarship: The Global Wildcat Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship available to incoming international undergraduate students. It provides partial tuition waivers for up to four years of study. Selection is based on academic excellence, leadership qualities, and contributions to the community.

2. International Tuition Awards: The International Tuition Awards are merit-based scholarships offered to international undergraduate and graduate students. These awards provide partial tuition waivers and are renewable for multiple years. Eligibility is based on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and potential to contribute to the university community.

3. International Student Tuition Discount: The University of Arizona offers a tuition discount to international students from select countries. The discount reduces the out-of-state tuition rate to a more affordable level, making it more accessible for international students to pursue their education at the university.

4. Graduate College Fellowships: The Graduate College at the University of Arizona offers several fellowship programs for international graduate students. These fellowships provide financial support for tuition and living expenses. The eligibility criteria and award amounts vary depending on the specific fellowship program.

5. College-Specific Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within the University of Arizona offer scholarships specifically tailored to international students in their respective fields of study. These scholarships may be based on academic achievement, research interests, or professional goals. Students can inquire with their specific college or department for available scholarship opportunities.

6. External Scholarships: The University of Arizona encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities. There are numerous scholarships provided by organizations, governments, and foundations that international students can apply for. The university's scholarship office can provide guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for external scholarships.

It is important for international students to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary. 

Graduates with an M.A. in Geography from the University of Arizona have a wide range of career opportunities:

1. Urban Planner: Graduates may work as urban planners, creating sustainable development plans for cities and regions, considering environmental and social factors.

2. GIS Analyst: Graduates can pursue careers as GIS analysts, using geospatial technologies to analyze data, create maps, and provide spatial solutions in various sectors.

3. Environmental Consultant: Graduates may work as environmental consultants, conducting assessments and advising on environmental impacts for development projects.

4. Research Analyst: Graduates can work as research analysts, contributing to geographic research and data analysis in research institutions or think tanks.

5. Geospatial Specialist: Graduates with expertise in GIS and spatial analysis can work as geospatial specialists in government agencies or private companies.

6. Geography Instructor: Graduates can pursue teaching careers as geography instructors in schools, colleges, or universities.

7. Transportation Planner: Graduates may work as transportation planners, analyzing transportation networks and proposing efficient transportation solutions.

8. Demographer: Graduates with expertise in human geography may work as demographers, studying population dynamics and migration patterns.

9. International Development Specialist: Graduates can work in international development organizations, addressing global challenges and supporting sustainable development.

The M.A. in Geography program at the University of Arizona equips students with valuable geographic knowledge and skills applicable to various sectors. Whether focusing on physical or human geography, students gain critical insights into spatial patterns and processes, preparing them for meaningful careers in addressing environmental, social, and economic challenges at local, regional, and global scales.