Degree Information
Priority Admission Application Deadlines: http://www.grad.usf.edu/majors
Minimum Total Hours: 60 (post-Master’s); 90 (post-Bachelor’s)
Level: Doctoral
CIP Code: 45.0799
Dept. Code: SGS
Major/College Codes: GEP AS
Approved: 2005
Contact Information
College: Arts and Sciences
Departments: School of Geosciences
Contact Information: http://www.grad.usf.edu/majors
The Ph.D. degree in Geography and Environmental Science and Policy (GEP) is an interdisciplinary program, and its curriculum is designed around critical areas of geography and the environment. The GEP Program is designed to integrate fully the strengths of the Geography and the Environmental Science and Policy (ESP) Programs in the School of Geosciences (SGS) at the USF. Emphasis is placed on providing theoretical rigor and methodological skills, thereby enabling students to make significant and original research and policy contributions in an integrated interdisciplinary environment. In addition, the degree has a very strong applied component emphasizing working on solutions to real-world geographical and environmental problems. Through a commitment to quality interdisciplinary teaching, combined with research and hands-on learning opportunities, the GEP Doctoral Program in the SGS is dedicated to ensuring that students are well prepared for careers in academics, and private and public sectors.
Major Research Areas:
Geography, Environmental Science and Policy
Admission Information
Must meet University Admission and English Proficiency requirements as well as requirements for admission to the major,
listed below.
- A Master’s degree, or its equivalent, from an approved regionally accredited university with preparation in geography, environmental science and policy, or a related discipline. Highly qualified applicants can enter directly into the doctoral program from a Bachelor’s degree but must complete a minimum of 90 hours prior to obtaining the Ph.D., including the required coursework in either the Geography or Environmental Science and Policy Master’s majors.
- Graduate Record Exam (GRE)
- GPA at least 3.20 in upper division undergraduate and graduate credits
- A letter of intent. The letter should outline the applicant’s specific academic interests and goals and identify faculty members whose interests align with that of the applicant.
- Three letters of recommendation. Arrange to have letters of recommendation sent to the Office of Graduate Admissions online prior to the application deadline. Prospective students should solicit the letters of recommendation from sources who are familiar with the applicant’s academic/work history and performance. Signatures and letterheads are required for letters of recommendation.
Students Upgrading into the Doctoral Degree from the Master’s Degree
After completing a minimum of one semester of course work, an admitted master’s student may apply for the doctoral degree with the consent of his/her major professor (must be the major professor and not simply the initial advisor). When the student applies to the Ph.D. degree, the application is then reviewed by the Graduate Committee via the established application process, and recommendations are made regarding admission to the major and funding.