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Undergraduate Requirements

Minimum Requirements for Degrees: 120 credits

Geography provides a holistic view of the earth as a whole, its distinct and varied regions, as well as the types of and interaction between human activities and the physical world. Geography is the two-way bridge between the physical and social sciences as it explores the interrelationships between the earth’s physical and biological systems and how these environmental systems provide a natural resource base for human societies. Geography also provides the framework for the integration of new and emerging technologies such as GIS and remote sensing with studies in a broad range of academic disciplines.

Geographers are interested in patterns and processes of physical and social change, including climate change, geographic information science and technologies, human settlement patterns, natural resources distribution and management, environmental studies, and in the inherent “sense of place” among peoples throughout the world. Geographic methodologies include observation, measurement, description and analysis of places including likenesses, differences, interdependence and importance.

The geography B.A. degree provides broad cultural training and background in the liberal arts with an emphasis on the circumpolar North and Pacific Rim. The B.A. also provides a geographic perspective based on these regions and prepares students for careers in management, policy, teaching, field-based research, regional planning and private sector careers. The B.A. also provides an excellent foundation for advanced studies in a wide range of academic disciplines.

Three emphasis options are available to students pursuing the B.S. degree: environmental studies, landscape analysis and climate change studies, and geographic information science and technology.

Environmental studies provides the foundation necessary for understanding the natural and social environment, analysis of environmental issues from an interdisciplinary geographic perspective, a diverse technical and scientific approach to environmental issues, and the ability to find balanced solutions to environmental problems.

Landscape analysis and climate change studies integrates and synthesizes courses in geography, climate change, physical and biological sciences, and geographic information sciences and technology. Students will gain a sound and interdisciplinary understanding of how environmental change influences landscape patterns and humans on both spatial (e.g. latitude, altitude) and temporal (e.g. past, future) scales. Senior practicum courses serve as integrating “capstone experiences” enabling students to apply what they have learned in real-world settings.

Geographic information science and technology emphasizes skills and practices in geographic information science, systems, technology and analytical aspects of geography. Courses in statistics, computer programming, GIS, GPS and remote sensing are integrated with the geography core curriculum and courses in natural sciences.

A minor in geography is also available.