Welcome to the Politics, Geography and International Studies Department

We combines the expertise, experience, and strength of faculty and staff in the disciplines of geography and geographic information science, international studies and political science. Our faculty and staff are passionate about working with students both in and outside the classroom and are eager to get to know you. Many opportunities exist to conduct undergraduate research, pursue an internship, study abroad, and more! Please browse the resources on this page and contact us with any questions. We're here to help!
 

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Our Programs

Find program curriculum, highlights and more information below.

Geography is a field that uses an interdisciplinary approach to understand patterns of human activity and natural processes on the surface of the earth. Geographers are often called upon to analyze and solve problems that deal with interactions between people and the environment. Geography appeals to students who have a wide range of interests that involve human activities and their impacts on the natural environment.

Geographic Information Science is a set of techniques that include Cartography (the art and science of map making), GIS - Geographic Information Systems (the analysis of spatial patterns), and Remote Sensing (the analysis of satellite imagery). These techniques are useful in displaying, understanding, and analyzing spatial relationships. Many other disciplines, such as biology, business, marketing, criminal justice, land use planning, and urban studies utilize mapping techniques.
 

Program Highlights

  • The Geography and GIS program equips you with hands-on experience for a variety of careers in a rapidly growing industry.
  • Faculty are active specialists in the field.
  • GIS certificate program for continuing education and for undergraduate students pursuing a degree.
  • State-of-the-art GIS lab
  • Individualized plan options
  • Abundant education abroad opportunities, including geography coursework
  • Active internship program
     

Degree and Program Requirements

Geography Major
Geography Major – GIS Emphasis
Geography Minor
GIS / Cartography Minor
GIS Certificate

The primary mission of the International Studies Program is to create global awareness by providing students with the intellectual skills and substantive knowledge necessary to meet the global challenges of the 21st Century.
 

Program Highlights

The International Studies Program is designed to:

  • provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to compete in the global community.
  • promote critical thinking and problem solving from an interdisciplinary perspective.
  • introduce students to a foreign language and encourage the development of competency.
  • increase global awareness and understanding of cultural differences.
  • encourage students to participate in study-abroad and overseas experience programs.
     

Degree and Program Requirements

International Studies Major
International Studies Minor

Our program prepares you to be an engaged citizen and leader by providing the skills and knowledge necessary to analyze, interpret, and participate in domestic and international political and governmental processes. Transferable skills ensure graduate success in both the public and private sectors.

Program Highlights

  • We help you transform your passion for politics, public service and positive change into a rewarding career.
  • We provide the foundational elements to help you hone skills that are valued in a wide range of career fields - from federal, state and local governments to law, business, journalism and more.
  • We offer you a variety of rich, practical experiences such as internships, study abroad and undergraduate research opportunities.
  • We support a campus culture abundant with networking opportunities.
     

Degree and Program Requirements

Political Science Major
Political Science Minor

Through our pre-law program, we can help you choose courses that will be the best fit for you as you prepare for legal education and beyond.
 

Program Requirements

Pre-Professional Law


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Student Resources
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About Us
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Chancellor Maria Gallo speaks to a student during the URSCA fall gala
Events
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Headshot of Emma Jaworski
The professors really knew me personally and knew how to best help me succeed in the program. I never felt like just a number.
Emma Jaworski (2022)

Politics, Geography and International Studies

355 and 356 Kleinpell Fine Arts
River Falls, WI 54022

pgis@uwrf.edu

715-425-3318

M-F, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.