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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)
The department is home to the McDonough County Geographic Information Systems 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
Possible Career Paths
Career opportunities are found in both public and private sectors.
Government agencies employing geographers include:
- The National Geospatial Intelligence 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.
