Master's Degrees

At Texas State University, the Master of Applied Geography (MAG or M.A.Geo.) and the Master of Science (MS) in Geography are both graduate-level programs, but they differ in focus, structure, and career orientation. Below is a breakdown of the key differences and benefits of each.

Key Differences and Benefits of Each Program

Feature M.A.Geo. (MAG) M.S. in Geography
Credit Hours 33 30
Thesis Requirement No (research paper instead) Yes
Focus Applied/professional Theoretical/research
Online Availability Yes (some concentrations) No
Career Path Professional roles Academic/research roles
Ideal For Working professionals, applied careers Aspiring Ph.D. students, researchers

Master of Applied Geography (M.A.Geo.)

Focus:

  • Emphasizes applied skills and professional practice in areas like:
    • Environmental management
    • Urban and community planning
    • Geographic Information Science (GIScience)
    • Natural resource management
    • Geographic education

Structure:

  • 33 credit hours
  • Non-thesis option with a research paper
  • Offers online coursework (some concentrations like Geographic Education can be completed 100% online)

Ideal For:

  • Students aiming for professional careers in government, private sector, or NGOs
  • Those seeking flexibility (especially online learners or working professionals)

Benefits:

  • Practical, career-oriented training
  • Broader course offerings in applied topics
  • Online availability for some concentrations

Master of Science (M.S.) in Geography

Focus:

  • Emphasizes theoretical and research-based training
  • Prepares students for doctoral studies or research-intensive careers

Structure:

  • 30 credit hours
  • Requires a thesis
  • More focused on academic research and publication

Ideal For:

  • Students planning to pursue a Ph.D.
  • Those interested in academic or research careers

Benefits:

  • Strong foundation in geographic theory and methods
  • Opportunities for publishable research
  • Closer mentorship with faculty on research projects

Thesis & Dissertation Information

This is a one-stop-shop for your thesis and dissertation success. Have specific questions? Contact us at gcdegspcl@txstate.edu.

Graduate Program Contacts

We are here to help guide you to a successful post college career

injeong jo photo

Dr. Injeong Jo

Graduate Program Coordinator
geograduate@txstate.edu 

allison glass smith

Allison Glass-Smith

Graduate Staff Advisor geograduate@txstate.edu