Masters in Geography

The Masters in Geography program has two tracks: The thesis track (for students interested in conducting independent research; often these students enter a PhD program following the Masters) or the non-thesis track (for students interested in advancing their expertise without conducting independent research; these students typically enter the workforce following their degree).

The Graduate Program Director and Supervising professor will monitor progress, however it is the student’s responsibility to understand and fulfill all requirements for their Degree.

Students are required to develop a research program of study and research in consultation with and with approval from their supervising professor and committee. It is the student’s responsibility to initiate and refine the program until it is at a level of proficiency worthy of a thesis. The supervising professor or committee will not compose thesis programs for students; it is a collaborative process that requires students to learn how to engage and contribute to scholarly knowledge, participate at conference meetings and workshops, master organizational abilities, manage time efficiently, sharpen communication skills, and demonstrate independent research ethics.

The Florida State University College of Social Sciences and Public Policy is dedicated to excellence in creating and communicating social science and public policy knowledge through leading edge research, interdisciplinary programs, and teaching. We inspire and create opportunities for our diverse student body to become the next generation of leaders, citizens, and innovators to advance scholarship, engage communities, and serve society.

The college offers an inclusive and collaborative culture, welcoming all into a robust and free exchange of ideas. The college recruits and retains exceptional and diverse faculty, graduate and undergraduate students, and staff to advance our mission and undertake core disciplinary and interdisciplinary research, teaching, and service activities. Students are supported in the classroom and on campus to become critical thinkers and are prepared through teaching, mentoring, advising, and service to successfully contribute and serve as leaders, citizens, and innovators. The college’s reputation for excellence in creating and applying knowledge is reflected in units and programs that are the best in Florida and highly ranked among all public universities.