This paper traces the historical development of cartography graduate programs, establishes an evolutionary model, and evaluates the model to determine if it has some utility today for the development of programs capable of producing highly skilled cartographers. Cartography is defined to include traditional cartography, computer cartography, remote sensing, and geographic information systems. There is a growing demand for cartographers with the highest level of training from academic, government, and private sectors. On the average it appears that we are satisfying about one-fifth to one-sixth of the demand. Reasons why are discussed. The paper then reviews the history of three prominent university cartography programs. The characteristics of the model of program development that can be formed from these past experiences are discussed. For example, the program was hosted by a geography department and evolved slowly from the interests of one faculty member. The model will not work today because it limits new program development to existing Ph.D. granting geography departments, program development is slow, and the body of knowledge and skills that now make up cartography far exceed the mastery of a single faculty member. The author recommends the creation of a new model of program development and discusses five criteria which should be built into this model. The paper concludes with a discussion of where new Ph.D. programs of this nature can be developed. (RM)