Graduate Programs in Geography, Sustainability, Community, and Urban Studies

About the opportunity

The Department of Geography, Sustainability, Community, and Urban Studies at the University of Connecticut serves as a hub for interdisciplinary research and engaged education. The department offers a Ph.D. in Geography, a Master of Arts (MA) in Geography, and a Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Systems. These programs are designed to equip students with the theoretical and technical skills necessary to address complex environmental, social, and geographic challenges. Graduate students benefit from mentorship by faculty engaged in diverse research areas and have access to professional development opportunities in research, teaching, and community engagement. The department prioritizes funding for Ph.D. students, with a strong record of providing up to four years of support.

Funding and benefits

• Competitive funding packages for Ph.D. students, typically including a stipend, tuition remission, and fringe benefits.
• Opportunities for department teaching assistantships (TAs) and research assistantships (RAs).
• Access to research assistantships in other departments.
• Eligibility for University fellowships.
• Partial support for summer research through Graduate School funding.

Who can apply?

• Applicants to the Ph.D. program may apply with or without a prior MA/MS degree.
• Applicants must meet the general admission requirements of the UConn Graduate School.
• Evidence of English proficiency is required for students whose primary language is not English (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, or Duolingo).
• Prospective students are strongly encouraged to contact prospective faculty advisors before submitting an application.

Required documents

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Personal Statement (recommended 2-3 pages or 750-1,000 words)
• Three letters of recommendation
• Evidence of English proficiency (if applicable)

When to apply

• The primary application deadline for consideration for University fellowships and Department graduate assistantships is December 15.
• Students seeking admission without financial assistance may request application review outside the normal cycle.

How to apply

• Explore the department website to identify faculty research specialties and program requirements.
• Contact prospective faculty advisor(s) in advance of submitting an application.
• Submit the application via the UConn Graduate School’s online application portal.
• Ensure all required documents, including CV, personal statement, and letters of recommendation, are submitted.

Additional information

• The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is no longer required for admission.
• International applicants are not required to submit a third-party credential evaluation for transcripts and degrees.
• The department prioritizes funding for Ph.D. students; funding for MA students is possible but not common.
• If a prospective advisor does not respond, applicants are advised to resend their email up to three times before contacting the graduate coordinator.