Geography and Environmental Studies Scholarships

We’re committed to helping you achieve your academic and professional goals. Each year, our Geography and Environmental Studies program offers a variety of scholarships designed to recognize excellence, reward dedication, and empower the next generation of leaders in these critical fields.

Our scholarships are more than just financial support, they are an investment in your future. Whether you excel in academics, demonstrate leadership in the field, or show a passion for creating meaningful environmental impact, there’s a scholarship opportunity to help you succeed. These awards can make a real difference by reducing tuition costs, supporting research projects, and opening doors to unique experiences that enhance your education.

Why apply?

  • Financial Support: Scholarships help offset tuition and other education costs, making your degree more affordable.
  • Recognition: Celebrate your achievements and commitment to Geography and Environmental Studies.
  • Opportunities: Gain access to special programs, research projects, and leadership experiences that set you apart in your future career.

Don’t let financial concerns hold you back from pursuing your passion and making an impact in the world. Explore our scholarships today and take the first step toward a brighter academic and professional future.

Applying is simple, and our department is here to guide you every step of the way.

Geography and Environmental Studies Scholarship Checklist

Available scholarships

    The Richardson Fund is established by Norma Richardson and Michael Libbee in memory of the late Dr. Howard Richardson, Professor Emeritus, to help students explore places and cultures outside of Michigan

    The Richardson Endowment will support travel for students with majors or minors in geography or social studies with a geography concentration.  Travel can include support for international travel, geography groups to attend national meetings, and student teaching experiences outside of Michigan.

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    This scholarship was established in 2002 by the estate of Hugh Calkins '33 in recognition of his family's long association with CMU. Hugh Calkins graduated from CMU in 1933 with a Bachelor of Science in Geography. His father, R.D. Calkins, was the first Chair of Geography at CMU serving from 1902 - 1944 and Calkins Hall is named in his honor. Hugh Calkins passed away in 2000. This is a renewable scholarship available to sophomores or above enrolled in the College of Science and Engineering with either a signed Geography major, any concentration, or a signed Environmental Studies major. Recipient must have a minimum GPA of 3.25 in GES courses and a 3.25 GPA overall. This is also available to incoming freshman with the intent of pursuing either a Geography major or an Environmental Studies major. No minimum GPA will be required for incoming freshmen.

    Established in 1992 by Clarence W. Olmstead, '37. Income from the endowment will support a renewable award for a sophomore or higher with a signed major in geography. Recipient must have completed or be currently enrolled in GEO 105 or its equivalent (GEO 120, GEO 121, and GEO 203), and also completed three additional courses towards the major at or above the 300 level. Student must have a minimum GPA of 3.5 in their major and a minimum overall GPA of 3.5. Recipient must submit an application and cover letter as requested by the Department of Geography.

    Established in 1962 as the Denzil Slentz Thornthwaite Memorial Fund by C. Warren Thornthwaite in honor of his wife. Their daughters later made the scholarship a memorial to their parents, both of whom were alumni. The recipient is a student who plans to pursue a career in geography. The scholarship is available to juniors or seniors majoring in geography with a minimum 3.0 GPA and a 2.75 GPA overall with demonstrated financial need.​​

    The Grossa/Klopcic Endowment is for students focusing on Geographic Information Science. The scholarship maybe renewed a maximum of one time, contingent upon the recipient’s satisfactory academic progress and future availability of funds.