Beyond the Classroom
We expand students' horizons beyond the classroom by integrating experiential learning directly into our curriculum, connecting them with a world of opportunities.
Field and Capstone Courses
Experiential Learning Is Built into Our Curriculum
Many of our courses push students to explore the world outside the classroom, but some go the extra mile.
“Urban Field Experience” incorporates two weekend-long trips to Chicago during which students develop and execute an independent, thesis-driven research project that incorporates their own field observations and offers new insights into an urban issue of their choosing.
In the “Senior Seminar” capstone, students undertake original research beyond the classroom. Diverse students pursue diverse projects in close collaboration with a faculty advisor.
Internships
Our internship program provides students an invaluable opportunity to gain hands-on skills and experience, typically earning income and credits. The Department of Geography is committed to connecting our students with internships – both summer and regular semester – offered by partners and alumni in the region and facilitating the search for opportunities nationwide. Some recent internship partners include:
- The City of Oxford, Ohio
- The City of Hamilton, Ohio
- Three Valley Conservation Trust
- Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission
Students seeking more information on opportunities and how to register for internship credit should visit Miami’s Center for Career Exploration and Success. If you’re a potential internship partner, please email us at geography@miamioh.edu.
This summer, I interned with OKI Regional Council as a Land Use Intern, working on the Climate Pollution Reduction Grant program. I analyzed electricity usage, scored transportation projects, and assessed greenhouse gas emissions for the Comprehensive Climate Action Plan. I’ve extended my internship into the fall, gaining valuable experience and exploring career opportunities. My experience with OKI has been highly valuable, allowing me to grow professionally and collaborate on meetings and projects.
Jacob Matson
OKI Regional Council of Governtments, Land Use Intern
Collaborating with students and faculty, I gained hands-on experience with GIS tools, enhancing my technical skills and spatial data understanding. A standout project was mapping data from the Oxford Cemetery, which was challenging but rewarding. This experience deepened my GIS appreciation and problem-solving skills, preparing me for my career. Since graduating, I’ve worked full-time as a Development Specialist for the City of Fairfield, where I create maps and assist with spatial data analysis. I’m incredibly grateful to Robbyn Abbitt and the GEO staff at Miami for all of their support and guidance throughout my college career.
Eva Adams
City of Fairfield, Development Specialist
Project- and Client-based Projects
We’re always looking for good clients. Have a project idea? Please contact us at geography@miamioh.edu.
Advanced Urban and Regional Planning
Students work with local communities through a semester-long planning process. Their plans have been adopted by local towns and cities, including multiple neighborhood plans for Hamilton, Ohio.
View Hamilton, Ohio PlansMapping the Miami University Natural Areas and Trails
GIS students developed a virtual map of Miami University's natural areas and trails, using their expertise and software to create a comprehensive and user-friendly representation of the campus' outdoor spaces.
View our interactive, virtual mapSecond Ward Revitalization Strategy
A plan outlining the revitalization of the Second Ward neighborhood in Hamilton, Ohio through improvement of existing housing stock, attraction of new businesses, and improved amenities, all while maintaining the character and integrity of the existing community.
Landscape Naturalization Master Plan
The plan involves clarifying landscape naturalization theory, identifying and mapping potential land areas, researching and analyzing best practices, and developing naturalization strategies tailored to the City of Oxford.
View the Landscape Naturalization Master PlanGeography Careers
Geospatial Analysis Center
Scholarships and Awards
Advising Contacts
Geography
Susan Jakubowski
jakubosl@MiamiOH.edu
513-529-3499
Urban & Regional Planning
David Prytherch
david.prytherch@MiamiOH.edu
513-529-9284
GISci Certificate
Robbyn Abbitt
abbittrj@MiamiOH.edu
513-529-5016
Graduate Studies
Bruce D'Arcus, Director of Graduate Studies
darcusb@MiamiOH.edu
513-529-1521