Why Should You Join GTU?
     Gamma Theta Upsilon membership is earned through superior scholarship; it is an honor and a professional distinction. Members receive a certificate suitable for framing. Many remain active in GTU after graduation by joining Omega Omega the Alumni chapter. The GTU chapter at IUP was established in November of 1964, with 13 members. 

    Our IUP GWA chapter, in conjunction with the Department of Geography and Regional Planning, sponsors speakers, campus activities, field trips,  and social events.  Members also have the opportunity to participate in volunteer activities.  GTU provides a network where you can become better acquainted with other geography students and can meet and talk with geography faculty. As a GTU member you can improve your expertise in the field of geography by learning things not normally dealt with in the classroom.  Membership in an academic honor society is evidence of dedication and competence in your career field.  Knowledgeable employers give hiring preference to honor society members!

HISTORY OF GTU:
     On May 15, 1928, Dr. R. G. Buzzard formed Gamma Theta Upsilon as a local professional fraternity at Illinois State Normal University.  Before that, it was the Geography club at Illinois State Normal University.  After three years, letters were sent out to other geography clubs suggesting the formation of a national fraternity.
     On May 15, 1931, it became a national organization, consisting of four chapters. On March 5, 1936, Gamma Theta Upsilon was incorporated, then with ten chapters, as a professional fraternity in geography under the laws of Illinois.  Gamma Theta Upsilon became an International Honorary Geographical Society in January 1969.

STANDARDS OF GTU:
Membership requirements are:

• Top 35% of your class (sophomore, junior, etc.)
• 3.0 GPA or greater in at least nine (9) hours of Geography and Planning courses.

Fees are $30 for new members, with a $5 annual renewal.

PURPOSES OF GTU:

• To further professional interest in geography by affording a common organization for those interested in the field.
• To strengthen student and professional training through academic experiences in addition to those of the classroom and laboratory.
• To advance the status of Geography as a cultural and practical discipline for study and investigation.
• To encourage student research of high quality, and to promote an outlet for publication.
• To create and administer funds for furthering graduate study and/or research in the field of Geography.

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  Last update: January 15, 2002