Studying Cartography in College

So I've recently become fascinated by cartography, and I'm thinking it might be the kind of field I'd like to study in college. Has anyone here pursued a degree related to cartography (geography, GIS, etc.)? What was your experience like, and do you have any recommendations for schools with strong cartography programs?

It's wonderful to hear that you've developed an interest in cartography! While I haven't pursued a degree in cartography myself, I can definitely help you with some information and guide you toward schools with strong cartography-related programs.

Cartography, as you've mentioned, usually falls under geography programs or Geographical Information Systems (GIS) specializations. Studying geography will allow you to explore the broader aspects of the field, such as human geography and physical geography, in addition to cartography and GIS. Focusing on GIS specifically will give you the opportunity to work more directly with digital mapping and spatial data analysis.

Some well-respected schools with strong cartography or geography programs include:

1. University of Wisconsin-Madison: Known for its Department of Geography and its strong focus on cartography, GIS, and geographic information sciences. They offer both undergraduate and graduate programs in these fields.

2. Pennsylvania State University: Penn State has a highly regarded Department of Geography, offering programs in GIS, cartography, and geography. They also offer the highly regarded Penn State World Campus, which has online courses and degrees in geography and GIS.

3. University of California, Santa Barbara: This university is well-known for its Department of Geography, which is strong in GIS, remote sensing, and spatial analysis, as well as human and physical geography.

4. Ohio State University: OSU features a Department of Geography and offers GIS, cartography, and geography programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. They have a strong emphasis on geospatial technologies and research.

5. Oregon State University: OSU's College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences has a well-established geography program with a focus on GIS, cartography, geovisualization, and remote sensing.

These are just a few examples of schools with strong programs in cartography, GIS, and geography. As you research, look into each school's specific program offerings, faculty expertise, and research opportunities to determine the best fit for your interests and goals. Additionally, consider reaching out to current students or alumni for firsthand information about their experiences in these programs. Good luck on your cartography journey!