Geography is all about location. It is often confused with Geology because they sound alike and they both study the earth. Where they differ is geologists study things such as rocks and natural landforms. “Geographers are concerned with the human environment – political science, economics, psychology – as we are with the natural environment – wildlife, climate, landforms. Our focus is mainly at the surface of the planet,” said Dr. Erick Howenstine, Chair of the Geography and Environmental Studies Department.
“Our Geography major has two areas of emphasis. One is geospatial techniques – and this is one of the fastest growing fields of employment, according to the U.S. Dept. of Labor. The other is Urban Geography. Most of our students end up working in the Chicago region, so the urban focus is very good for us,” said Howenstine. Geographers focus on things such as locations for schools, businesses and fire stations.
One project that is currently under development is a 3D map of the NEIU campus using Google’s Sketchup software. This project is being worked on by Howenstine and Geography student, Kevin Whitney.
The geography program has a new look this year. “After three years of effort, the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies announces a host of improvements to the degree programs which will be in full effect for students beginning their B.A., M.A., or minor after Fall ’08. The far-reaching changes will be reflected in the Fall catalog and are the result of more than 50 faculty meetings and countless hours of informal discussions,” according to Howenstine.
“The changes better coordinate coursework, update curriculum and program requirements, and clear out courses which have not been taught for decades to make room for new requirements that will better prepare students for the demands of the workplace and/or advanced scholarly work in the field,” said Howenstine.
The Department of Geography and Environmental Studies has a 40 page student hand book that is constantly updated to help guide students. More information about Geography and Environmental studies can be found at www.neiu.edu/~deptges.