Geography
Associate in Science (Transfer)
Geography is an integrating discipline that encourages the student to relate the various components of the physical and culturally created environments. The Geography Associate in Science degree prepares students to transfer to a bachelor's degree program at a four-year college or university.
700
Scholarships available – and one might have your name on it
Geography is a discipline that can relate to many other sciences by examining them from a spatial perspective. With advancements in computer technology, geography plays a major role in our everyday lives through Geographic Information Systems (GIS), computer cartography, and applications for weather and climate study.
Admissions Office
Students will earn an Associate in Science degree and be prepared to transfer to a four-year college or university.
The Student Association for the Environment (SAFE) brings together students from different disciplines who share a common interest in creating greater awareness of the environment.
GIS Specialist, Geospatial Technician, Cartographer, Surveyor, Location Analyst
COMPLETION TIME
24 Months
if Full Time
4 Semesters60 Total Credit Hours
What if I attend part-time?
Our Student Success Advisors help with an academic plan that works for you.
ESTIMATED COST
$9,600
+ supplies & fees
Based on 2024-25
What financial assistance can I receive?
Find the plan right for you by connecting with our Financial Aid office.
AVERAGE CLASS SIZE
25 Students
average per class
Small class sizes mean more individual attention and a higher rate of success.
View the College Catalog to see a complete list of classes for this program.
Meet Our Students and Alumni
When examining the world from a spatial perspective, one can always apply geography to the world around them.
Eric Christian, Professor, Humanities
How Do I Get Into the Geography Program?
You have a curiosity about how the environment and humans interact and affect one another. Talk to an Admissions representative and learn how to get started with a degree in Geography.
- Complete our quick admissions application. It’s free and easy!
- Apply for financial aid (FAFSA).
- Apply for ICC Scholarships. Just 1 application for over 700 scholarships.
- High school coursework in English, math, earth or environmental science, and social studies is beneficial.
- Volunteer experience with environmental clubs and outdoor clubs is helpful.
What Can I Expect As a Geography Student?
- An introduction to the discipline of geography and its connection with other sciences.
- Coursework in cultural and economic geography, geology, and weather and climate.
- Graduates have gone on to study at Illinois State University, Northern Illinois University, Western Illinois University, and Eastern Illinois University.
- Graduates with degrees in geography find employment opportunities in government and in the private sector.
How Am I Going to Manage This?
-
What if I am working while going to school?
We have you covered. Many of our students are working adults who balance life and school. We have great resources on campus to help keep you going!
-
What are my options for funding my education?
Do this first: fill out and file your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Even if you don’t want federal aid, this document is used by many scholarship and grant programs to evaluate aid packages.
Look for scholarships and grants first because usually they don’t have to be paid back. The ICC Foundation sponsors some scholarships, and grants may be available from Illinois or federal programs. Other organizations also offer scholarships, and we can help you research those opportunities.
Federally guaranteed student loans can be a smart way to fund college. Think about your transfer plans and what your career looks like. Some sources recommend that you cap your borrowing at the level of what you (realistically!) can expect to earn at your first job after college. So, research careers and pay, too.
Of course, savings, jobs, and work-study are key parts of your budget. Your employer may offer tuition reimbursement. Find the tools to make a complete plan for paying for school.