Are you passionate about making a positive impact on the world? A major in Geography or Planning empowers you to address critical global challenges.
The Department of Geography and Planning offers geography and community and regional planning undergraduate and graduate degrees. Specializing in climate science, health geography, community and regional planning, sustainable and environmental planning, spatial patterns in human geography and social justice, and Geographic Information Science (GIS), the department provides students with solutions-based critical thinking skills.
Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our students' and alumni's impressive track record, with over 90% securing employment in their respective fields and gaining admission to highly competitive graduate programs within six months of graduation.
In the News
Planning Alumnus Robert R. ‘Skip’ Harkrader III ’78 ’83 Receives Williams School of Graduate Studies Alumni Award (Appalachian Today)
Dr. Maggie Sugg Receives Grant to Establish Appalachia Flood-Health Resilience Research Network (College of Arts & Sciences)
Misty Mayfield Receives W.H. Plemmons Leadership Medallion (Appalachian Today)
Caroline Fehlman and Quinn Keefer Receive Awards at Annual Celebration of Student Research and Creative Endeavors (Appalachian Today)
Geography Graduate Student Caroline Fehlman Receives Zigli Research Award (College of Arts & Sciences)
Dr. Maggie Sugg Discusses Impact of Blood Supply Shortages on Pregnant and Postpartum Women (The New York Times)
Abbey Rankins '24 Hired to Wyss Fellowship Position (Blue Ridge Conservancy)
Sarah Ulrich '24 and Dr. Maggie Sugg publish study in The Lancet (College of Arts & Sciences)
Dr. Maggie Sugg Awarded Over $1.5 Million to Study Climate Disasters and Youth Mental Health (Appalachian Today)
Dr. Elizabeth Shay Receives College of Arts & Sciences Teacher of the Year Award (College of Arts & Sciences)
Alumni Spotlight
"I'm thrilled to announce that I've decided to join Orbis Inc. knowing that I'll be collaborating with fellow Appalachian State University alumni, Corey Turner and Dustin Stephens. Their successes serve as inspiring examples of the caliber of professionals produced by our alma mater, and I'm eager to work alongside them, drawing upon their expertise and shared Appalachian State experience. Joining their team feels like the culmination of years of hard work and dedication, and I couldn't be more grateful for the opportunity. I extend my gratitude to the Geography and Planning Department staff, and especially Carol Crutchfield and Mike Flanagan, for fostering such a supportive and empowering academic environment that has prepared us for success in our careers. I'm eager to contribute my skills and expertise to the innovative projects at Orbis Inc. and to continue learning and growing in this dynamic field." — Area Leslie '24
Online Graduate GIScience Certificate (Beginning Fall 2026!)
Appalachian State's Online Graduate GIScience Certificate program is a fully online, graduate-level program designed for professionals and students seeking to advance their skills in Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Whether you are starting your journey in geospatial technology or looking to deepen your expertise, this program offers the flexibility, affordability, and personalized support to help you succeed. Click here to learn more.