The characteristics and functions of sound undergraduate and masters level programs in geography are examined. The author believes that because the reputation and fate of a geography department are determined by non-geographers to a very large degree, there is an urgent need to promote the relevance of the discipline and to sell the indispensability of geography at a given institution. There are two major sections, the first dealing with the undergraduate program and the second focusing on the masters program. To be most successful, undergraduate programs should be carefully designed and developed to best exploit (1) the most recent developments of the discipline, (2) the nature and location of the institution, (3) the college or unit under which geography functions, and (4) the size of the geography unit and the training and interests of the faculty members. To underscore the many roles and functions of undergraduate programs in geography today, a description of the various types of undergraduate programs such as preparation for graduate training, a terminal degree program, and a general education major is provided. The master's program in geography serves two functions. One type of program is designed to prepare the student for advanced or Ph.D. work in geography or a related field. The other type of program serves as a terminal degree program preparing students for teaching careers at the secondary or 2-year college level or careers in nonacademic situations. The paper concludes with the recommendation that geography departments be monitored and accredited by a recognized national organization. (RM)