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Geography

"Western's Meteorology program is small, which allows for more one-on-one interaction with professors. It provides a starting foundation for future careers in Meteorology."   -- Gregory Matson (2011)

"During my time at Western I had some really top notch professors in my meteorology courses who truly helped me to succeed as a student. Because of their commitment and hard work, I know I will be successful wherever my meteorology degree takes me."  -- Eric Apel (2011)

Concerned with interpreting and explaining the occurrence, distribution, and interrelationships of the physical and human patterns that may be discerned on the earth's surface, Geography is the study of place in the same sense that history is the study of time. placeholder

These constantly changing physical and human landscapes challenge the geographer to provide continuing interpretation of the world from the spatial point of view. Since geographers study patterns of physical and cultural phenomena, geography might be viewed as a bridge between the social and natural sciences.

Geographers may specialize in the study of cultural or physical phenomena or may combine both within a specific region, such as Latin America or Europe.

Possible Career Paths

Career opportunities are found in both public and private sectors.

Government agencies employing geographers include:

  • The National Imagery and Mapping Agency
  • Environmental Protection Agency
  • Central Intelligence Agency
  • Bureau of the Census
  • Army Corps of Engineers
  • State, regional, and local planning agencies

Private employers of geographers include:

  • economic and environmental consulting firms
  • mapping and aerial survey companies
  • climatological consulting firms
  • environmental engineering firms
Why Chose Geography at WIU?

Our students can choose to concentrate on computer cartography, remote sensing, and geographic information systems.

The department is home to the McDonough County Graphic Information Services Center, a partnership between WIU, the City of Macomb and McDonough County. Responsible for compilation, execution, and management of GIS projects for the city of Macomb and McDonough County, students are provided regular opportunities to put their knowledge and skills into ongoing projects with real world results.

Some Recent Graduates
  • Gregory Matson (2011) is currently a graduate student in meteorology at Iowa State University.
  • Eric Apel (2011) recently was hired as an agricultural meteorologist by Mobile Weather Team, Inc. in Washington, Illinois.

At A Glance

  • Degrees Available:
    • B.S.
    • M.A.
  • Major: Yes
  • Minor: Yes
  • Graduate Degree: Yes
  • Campus: Macomb
  • Study Opportunities:
    • GradTrac
    • Honors

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