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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.

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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.

Check Out the Latest Internships
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We are thrilled to be recognized as the 12th best public school for internships in the Top 20 Best Schools list.

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Project- and Client-based Projects

Students learn best by doing. Our department leverages connections with communities, organizations, and alumni to offer students opportunities to gain practical experience while serving our region.

We’re always looking for good clients. Have a project idea? Please contact us at geography@miamioh.edu.
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    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 Plans

    Mapping 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 map

    Second 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.

    View the Second Ward Revitalization Strategy

    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 Plan
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Geography and Planning Society Student Organization

The Geography and Planning Society (GPS) is a student organization made up of Geography and Urban & Regional Planning majors. The society organizes field trips to geographical and urban planning sites of interest. These trips offer practical insights into real-world applications of classroom learning and allow students to explore different geographical features and urban environments.
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Geography Careers

For students enthusiastic about interacting with people, exploring new locations, and preserving the environment, there are a variety of career paths to consider. Careers in geography offer opportunities to significantly impact the world. Professionals in these fields are adept at considering the broader picture, integrating insights about people, the environment, and data. Recent graduates are applying their skills in local communities, across the country, and around the globe.
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Geospatial Analysis Center

The GAC offers comprehensive assistance to students, faculty, and staff, meeting their needs for geospatial data and analytical tools. It serves as the primary resource for accessing licensed geospatial software and GIS data. Additionally, the GAC provides expert consulting services to enhance geospatial data utilization and analysis.
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Scholarships and Awards

Learn more about our Scholarships & Awards

Advising Contacts

Department of Geography

118B Shideler Hall
250 S. Patterson Ave.
Oxford, OH 45056
513-529-5010 513-529-1948(fax)
Find Us Geospatial Analysis Center Undergraduate Admission Emeritus Faculty
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Project- and Client-based Projects

Students learn best by doing. Our department leverages connections with communities, organizations, and alumni to offer students opportunities to gain practical experience while serving our region. We’re always looking for good clients. Have a project idea? Please contact us at geography@miamioh.edu.

second ward plan cover
Read More About Our Revitalization Plan
urp meeting planners

“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. Here’s just a sample of their quality work.

landscape naturalization plan cover
Read More About Our Landscape Naturalization Plan
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