The world’s conservation challenges are more complex than ever—and solving them takes thinkers who can work across disciplines. UGA’s Integrative Conservation (ICON) Ph.D. program is built for exactly that: helping students develop strong disciplinary training and the ability to collaborate across fields to create real, innovative solutions. Students focusing on Integrative Conservation and Geography receive rigorous theory and methods in geography while also engaging with other disciplines, communities, and conservation practices. ICON students also complete a first‑summer internship for hands‑on experience. For admissions to the ICON + Geography program, applicants should have a bachelor’s and master’s degree, strong GRE scores, a solid GPA, and three recommendation letters. Identifying a major professor in advance is essential. Because funding is competitive, applications to Geography (for ICON admission) should be submitted by December 1. Note that ICON partner programs may have different deadlines. For more details on the ICON program, visit their website.For Geography Ph.D. application and assistantship information, see our Geography Ph.D. website for prospective students.Questions about ICON? Email iconphd@uga.edu.
