COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Arts in Geography is an interdisciplinary program that provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the interactions between human societies and the environment. The program examines spatial patterns, human-environment relations, and the factors that influence the distribution of phenomena across the Earth’s surface. Students begin with lower-division courses that establish a foundation in physical and human geography, environmental systems, and geographic technologies, including Introduction to Human Geography or World Regions and Peoples, Physical Geography and its laboratory, Environment and Society, and Introduction to Geographic Information Systems and Cartography. These foundational courses prepare students for advanced studies in both the theoretical and applied aspects of geography.Upper-division coursework emphasizes critical analysis and practical skills in areas such as environmental geography, spatial techniques, and experiential learning. Students select courses that deepen their understanding of environmental systems, including Weather and Climate, Conservation and Natural Resources, Environmental Sustainability, Environmental Justice, Watershed Hydrology, Biogeography, Climate Change, and Ecosystem Assessment. Spatial techniques courses, including Geographic Statistics and Research Methods, Advanced Geographic Information Systems, and Remote Sensing of the Environment, equip students with the quantitative and technological tools necessary to analyze complex spatial data. Experiential learning opportunities, such as internships, study abroad, service learning, and professional conferences, allow students to apply knowledge in real-world settings, developing practical and professional skills that are essential for careers in planning, environmental management, GIS, and related fields.Students also select a concentration, such as Urban Studies, Global Studies and Regional Geography, or Geographic Information Sciences (GIS), allowing for specialized study tailored to career goals. Concentrations provide courses in urban and regional planning, global and regional analysis, sustainable development, and advanced GIS applications. The Geography B.A. program balances theory, technical skills, and applied experience, preparing graduates for diverse careers in government, nonprofit organizations, research, urban and regional planning, environmental consulting, and education, while also serving as a strong foundation for graduate studies.