Geography
The Department of Geography offers degrees in Global Studies, Geospatial Information Science as well as Geography. If you are seeking a flexible major, want to help solve social and environmental challenges, enjoy traveling, like maps, or are curious about different ways of life, our degree options might be a great fit for you.
Our students share interests in global perspectives and environmental issues, enjoy exploring new places, and want to learn more about making and using maps to inform public policy, for example. Majoring in Geography, Global Studies, or Geospatial Information Science can open doors to a wide variety of career options. Undergraduates also have the opportunity to conduct in research with a faculty mentor, gain work experience through an internship, or participate in a study abroad.
Geography brings together the study of people, the environment, and the interactions between them in order to understand and improve our world.
- Human geographers tend to focus on local, national, and global flows of ideas and practices. They may emphasize the study of migration, voting patterns, travel behavior within cities, or how the use of social media varies from one region to another, for example.
- Physical geographers seek to understand environmental processes that affect air and water quality, biodiversity, or contribute to natural disasters.
- Human-environment geographers work at the intersection of social and natural dynamics to study the climate impacts of human activities, to understand vulnerability to drought or other natural hazards, or to design and plan sustainable cities, for example.
- Through the use of Global Positioning System (GPS) data, drone- and satellite-based imagery, and geographic information systems (GIS), geographers map, monitor, and analyze environmental change in order to understand how our world is changing, where, and who is affected.
- Geography spans the sciences, social sciences, and humanities. Much of the work that geographers do is inherently interdisciplinary in scope.
Many careers are available to the geography major. Recent graduates have been employed in the public and private sector in jobs involving urban and regional planning, GIS mapping and analysis for oil and gas projects, community development, locational analysis for business and industry, resource planning and management, the Foreign Service, cartography, and teaching. Geography provides an excellent foundation for a career in business, industry, or government.
The department specializes in three areas:
- nature-society dynamics, including resource management,
- cultural and historical geography, and
- geographic information science, including unmanned aerial systems.
The department also manages Cartography Services, the Center for Applications of Remote Sensing, three GIS labs, a palynology/paleoecology laboratory, field mapping equipment such as Global Positioning System receivers, and an interactive weather analysis system with satellite data feed.
The Department of Geography offers flexible degree options and certificates, including the following:
- BA/BS in Geography (with Business Essentials, Pre-Law, and Pre-Ministry options)
- BA in Global Studies (with Business Essentials, Pre-Law, and Pre-Ministry options)
- BS in Geospatial Information Science
- Certificate in GIS (undergraduate and graduate)
- Certificate in Environmental Studies (undergraduate)
Undergraduates also have the opportunity to participate in an accelerated master’s program (“4+1” degree) in which they can earn the BA in Global Studies in four years and the MS in Global Studies in their fifth year. An advanced program leading to the MS and PhD degrees is also available. The department also sponsors students in the interdisciplinary MS and PhD programs in environmental science.
Global Studies
Global Studies combines the study of world regions with cultural, environmental, economic, political and other facets of globalization and global change. Global studies offers practical and vital knowledge about the world, how it works and why it is changing. Faculty in Geography who teach in the Global Studies program have extensive experience with research, teaching, and study abroad in the Americas, Europe, Africa, Australia, Central Asia, and the Middle East.
A Global Studies degree prepares students for both international and domestic careers with the federal government and a wide variety of NGOs, charitable organizations, and other agencies involved in different aspects of regional and global development. The ongoing growth and global expansion of Christian missions, many of which originate and are coordinated by Oklahoma-based churches and charities, will benefit from students with a degree in Global Studies. It is also an ideal second major for many other degree programs both within and beyond A&S (e.g. Foreign Languages, Political Science, International Business, International Agriculture). Students with a Global Studies degree can serve the needs of Oklahoma, the nation and the world by joining a workforce of globally minded people who can easily function in a world that is increasingly interconnected.
Geospatial Information Science
Driven by technological innovations and an explosion in the availability of spatial information, geospatial technologies including geographic information systems (GIS), the Global Positioning System (GPS) and remote sensing have introduced revolutionary ways to utilize spatial information. The BS degree in geospatial information science (GISci) provides students with a theoretical and applied foundation in the rapidly growing field of GISci. The program is especially relevant to students interested in cultural and natural resource management, agriculture, planning and the environment.
The importance of GISci is underscored by a growing number of jobs emphasizing or entirely focused on the storage, analysis and visualization of geospatial data. A student who earns the BS in Geospatial Information Science at OSU will be well-versed in general GISci knowledge and will have competency utilizing GISci hardware and software for the planning, development and maintenance of spatial and nonspatial databases. Most important, students who complete the BS will have higher order skills involving the analysis of geospatial data and will be capable of communicating findings with larger audiences. Requirements for the proposed BS have been designed to parallel skills needed by GISci professionals. Upon earning the BS, a student will be proficient in spatial data capture, data representation, spatial data analysis, GISci theory, and GISci project development and implementation. Students can expect to find occupations in a variety of fields in private industry, government, education and agriculture.
Since the early 1990s the OSU Geography Department has distinguished itself in GISci instruction and research. In 1996 the Department launched the state’s first Certificate in Geographic Information Systems and in subsequent years has expanded GISci course offerings to address growing student interest and demand. The Department is well-known nationally and internationally for research involving the integration of GISci within farm-level decision-making, for scholarship involving human patterns and processes tied to cultural and historical landscapes and for research involving communications and transportation systems. Faculty in the Department have been highly successful in obtaining extramural support for GISci research and extension activities from organizations ranging from the National Science Foundation to the National Park Service, U.S. Department of State, Oklahoma Historical Society, and Oklahoma Department of Transportation. Faculty in the Department have also worked to improve STEM education in Oklahoma schools through projects such as a $1.2 million grant from the National Science Foundation that introduced GISci activities in 6th through 12th grade science classrooms. The Department’s international outreach efforts tied to geospatial technologies include a training partnership involving faculty and students in Vietnam and a multi-year project aimed at building Iraq’s GISci infrastructure.
Certificate in Environmental Studies (EVST)
Environmental Studies is an interdisciplinary field that emphasizes human-environment interactions and spans the humanities, social sciences, and sciences. The certificate is open to all undergraduate majors and is designed to fit within most four-year degree plans without the need for additional credit hours. The certificate is awarded upon completion of the bachelor’s degree and requires the completion of 17 credit hours. Lower-division requirements include ENVR 1113 and either GEOG/GEOL 1022 (N) or GEOG/GLST 2002 (N). Upper-division requirements include a single core course, GEOG 4233 Human Dimensions of Global Environmental Change, plus three others (nine credit hours) from a wide variety of courses.
Completion of the certificate indicates that a student has developed a knowledge base about environmental processes combined with the study of human cultural interactions with the natural world from the perspectives of history, political science, art, psychology, philosophy, literature, economics, and other disciplines. The certificate is ideal for students whose interests span the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The undergraduate Certificate in Environmental Studies recognizes students who complete their degrees with a notable share of courses emphasizing the study of the natural environment and how societies interact with nature.
Certificate in Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
The Certificate in GIS provides students with broad exposure to principles and applications of GIS. Requirements for the certificate are designed to parallel skills needed by GIS professionals. Student earning the certificate are proficient in general GIS theory and have knowledge and practical exposure to the following:
- hardware and software used in GIS and spatial data collection,
- design and management of spatial and non-spatial databases,
- spatial analysis and/or GIS programming, and
- representation of data in both mapped and tabular form.
The certificate program is offered at both the undergraduate (GIS, CRT) and graduate (GIS, GCRT) levels. Admission into the undergraduate certificate program is open to any undergraduate or special (non-degree seeking) students at OSU, while admission into the graduate certificate program is open to any graduate students. To receive a certificate in GIS, a student must complete a set of coursework in GIS and related topics and hold a bachelor's or more advanced degree from OSU or an accredited college. Students may work toward a certificate while completing their bachelor's or graduate degrees.
For more information about the Department of Geography, its programs or certificates, please visit https://geog.okstate.edu/ or contact us at 405-744-6250.
GEOG 1022 Climate Change and Humanity (N)
Description: Focus on the development of scientific inquiry and critical thinking skills needed to evaluate complex relationships among climate, energy production, and the environment. Students will explore causes and consequences of climate change and consider climate change science from alternative perspectives. Same course as GEOL 1022.
Credit hours: 2
Contact hours: Lecture: 2 Contact: 2
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: Natural Sciences
GEOG 1113 Introduction to Cultural Geography (IS)
Description: Surveys the principles of human geography by exploring the world's diverse patterns of culture and associated cultural landscapes. Examination of global patterns of population; language; religion; ethnic, national, and sexual identities; the development of regions, cities, and industry; food production and environmental change, especially as they are affected by globalization.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension, Social & Behavioral Sciences
GEOG 1114 Introduction to Physical Geography (LN)
Description: Study of the atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere, and biosphere-the major realms that interact to create Earth's environmental patterns. Human-environmental interactions are emphasized as the environment affecting people and people affecting the environment. The lab rounds out knowledge in course themes through hands on study of maps, GPS, and environmental processes.
Credit hours: 4
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Lab: 2 Contact: 5
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lab, Lecture, Combined lecture and lab
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: Scientific Investigation, Natural Sciences
Additional Fees: Geography Field Trip fee of $43 applies.
GEOG 1713 Regions & Nations in Global Context (IS)
Description: A regional approach to the study of human societies and the makeup of nations around the world, with an emphasis on contemporary issues such as climate change, sustainability and other environmental impacts; population and immigration; cultural, religion and language; and economic characteristics such as wealth disparities, poverty and education. This course covers many distinct world regions in each region such as Europe, Latin America, the Middle East and Southeast Asia. Previously offered as GEOG 2253. Same course as GLST 1713.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension, Social & Behavioral Sciences
GEOG 2002 Global Sustainability (N)
Description: This course examines questions of sustainability and sustainable development in a global context from environmental, social, and economic perspectives. Emphasis is placed on how different dimensions of sustainability interact, and how those interactions are shaped by regional context in a globalized world. Through discussion of policy and current environmental issues around the world, students will learn to analyze relationships and tradeoffs between humans and their environment. Same course as GLST 2002.
Credit hours: 2
Contact hours: Lecture: 2 Contact: 2
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: Natural Sciences
GEOG 2103 Global Perspectives (IS)
Description: Introduces students to the cultural, economic, and political aspects of globalization and global issues. Emphasizes the relationship between tradition and change, the interconnectedness of people, places, and institutions, aspects of social and economic development, and the evolving role of technology in creating and sustaining a globalized world. Also introduces students to possible career options. Same course as GLST 2103.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension, Social & Behavioral Sciences
GEOG 2344 Digital Tools for Environmental Problem-Solving (LN)
Description: This course provides an introduction to some cool tools for environmental problem-solving. These tools mainly include the Global Positioning System (GPS), geographic information systems (GIS), and remote sensing, also referred to as geospatial technologies. With a combination of lectures and hands-on exercises, students will become familiar with the fundamentals of these cool tools, and their applications in the environment such as in public health, climate change, water resource, food security, disaster assessment and recovery, deforestation.
Credit hours: 4
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Lab: 2 Contact: 5
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lab, Lecture, Combined lecture and lab
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: Scientific Investigation, Natural Sciences
GEOG 2890 Honors Experience in Geography
Prerequisites: Honors Program participation and concurrent enrollment in a designated GEOG course.
Description: A supplemental Honors experience in Geography to partner concurrently with designated Geography courses (GEOG 1113, 1114, and 1713). This course adds a different intellectual dimension to the designated courses. Offered for variable credit, 1-6 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.
Credit hours: 1
Contact hours: Lecture: 1 Contact: 1
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: Honors Credit
GEOG 3023 Climatology (N)
Description: A non-quantitative introduction to characteristics and distributions of long-term patterns in the atmosphere. Patterns and associations of temperature, precipitation, pressure and winds. Physical processes, regional climates of Earth, climate change, and applications of climate to agriculture, industry, and other human activities.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: Natural Sciences
GEOG 3033 Meteorology (N)
Description: A non-quantitative introduction to weather. Physical elements that cause and influence the atmosphere over the short term. Energy, moisture, and storms. Interpretation of weather maps and satellite imagery.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: Natural Sciences
GEOG 3053 Introduction to Central Asia Studies
Description: A comprehensive view of newly-emerged Central Asian states, examining the history, politics, economics, geography, and culture of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan as reflected in their thoughts, religion, literature, and architecture in the past, and the strategic importance of their natural wealth for the present and future. Same course as GLST 3053, HIST 3053, POLS 3053 & RUSS 3053.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: Social & Behavioral Sciences
GEOG 3063 Economic Meteorology
Description: Economic impact of weather ranging from consumer spending to agriculture and energy commodity markets. Specific weather events, and their associated economic impact, weather and climate forecasting and methods for eliminating weather risk.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 3093 Historical Geography of North America to 1800 (H)
Description: This course is an examination of the cultural geography of colonial North America from the earliest European contact with Native Americans to the end of the 18th Century. The course examines regional patterns of indigenous American Indian settlement, European exploration, trade, colonization. Immigration, impacts upon indigenous societies, and the development of preindustrial economic regions. Students will gain an appreciation of the interactions of various indigenous, European, and African peoples in different environments in the colonial era. Same course as HIST 3093.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: Humanities
GEOG 3113 Global Water Resources: Sustainability & Justice
Description: Water resources are key to the success of societies in all of their various forms. This course introduces students to fundamental concepts of water resources, including the natural processes of the hydrological cycle, management of water resources, and societal threats to sustaining water quantity and quality. Students in this course will develop an awareness and appreciation of the multiple perspectives about water as a precious resource, commodity, and point of justice. Same course as GLST 3113.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension, Social & Behavioral Sciences
GEOG 3123 Urban Geography (S)
Description: This course seeks to explain the evolving pattern of North American cities and their antecedents in terms of the distribution and movement of people and resources as well as the effects of changes in transportation and communication technology. In addition, a careful analysis of the development and internal spatial structure of North American cities will be carried out. Much class time will be spent on discussion of contemporary urban problems such as segregation, unequal investment, and control of urban public space as well as attempts at their solution.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: Social & Behavioral Sciences
GEOG 3133 Political Geography (IS)
Description: Political structures, relationships and geopolitical implications of location, boundaries, culture and the natural environment of nations and states. Global patterns of political behavior, political history, international law and geostrategy.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension, Social & Behavioral Sciences
GEOG 3153 Conservation of Natural Resources (S)
Description: A focus on the stewardship and sustainable management of our natural resources. Problems and corrective methods in the conservation of land, water, forests, wildlife, and mineral resources. Key themes include the relationships between human and environmental systems, degraded landscape restoration, environmental policy and compliance, and economic implications of natural resource management.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: Social & Behavioral Sciences
GEOG 3163 Economic Geography (S)
Description: Processes significant to the spatial structure of economic systems. Production, consumption and exchange activities examined in regard to location, distribution, aerial differentiation and spatial interaction patterns. Attention given to processes of change as well as to steady states.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: Social & Behavioral Sciences
GEOG 3173 Cultural Geography (S)
Description: Geographic impact of human cultures. Emphasis on the concepts of social space, density, crowding, territoriality, diffusion, migration, environmental perception and cultural landscape.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: Social & Behavioral Sciences
GEOG 3183 Transportation Geography
Description: Basic concepts and theories of transportation geography, selected transportation models and analysis methods related to spatial interactions, network analysis, allocation, and urban transportation planning.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 3203 Contemporary Issues in Geotechnology
Description: A look at critical issues currently facing the geography and geotech communities. Topics will include data sources, privacy, surveillance, internet censorship, big data, and the spaces and politics of code to discuss the impacts of technology on society.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 3213 Digital Worlds: Culture, Identity, and Community (H)
Description: An introduction to the geographies of communication and media in the context of recent technological changes. Students will learn how online and offline spaces are created and interact as a result of social media and telecommunications technology. Topics include: geographies of the internet, the digital divide, media culture, video game spaces, and online politics.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: Humanities
GEOG 3243 Legal Geography of Native America, Sovereign Tribal Nations, and Indian Country (DS)
Description: Geographical perspective on the evolution of U.S. federal Indian law and policy through an examination of case and statute law. Examination of tribal sovereignty and jurisdiction over lands in aboriginal title and federal trust, and how land defines indigenous identities and affects tribal-state relations.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: Diversity, Social & Behavioral Sciences
GEOG 3333 Spatial Analysis (A)
Prerequisites: STAT 2013 or STAT 2023 or STAT 2053 or STAT 4013 or STAT 4053.
Description: An introductory course in the application of basic statistical methods to spatial problems, including descriptive statistics, probability distributions, point and interval estimation, hypothesis testing, correlation, and simple linear regression. Emphasizes the challenges of working with spatial datasets and choosing appropriate methods of analysis, as well as explicitly spatial methods such as spatial sampling, point and area pattern analysis, and spatial autocorrelation. Provides a foundation for further study in geospatial technologies.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: Analytical & Quant Thought
GEOG 3373 Health and Maps
Description: How does where people live affect their health? How does the infectious disease spread across places? Health geography provides unique and powerful insights for understanding connections between wellness and place. This course will introduce basic concepts and tools of maps, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and map analysis. It will also demonstrate their application in the context of public health, including infectious disease, environmental health, urban health, health resource accessibility, and more.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 2 Lab: 2 Contact: 4
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lab, Lecture, Combined lecture and lab
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 3523 Gender and Religion Across Cultures (H)
Description: This course explores the interconnectedness of gender, religion, and culture both locally and globally. We will critically analyze how religious ideas, events, texts and traditions inform individual identities, gender discourse, gender roles, as well as issues of power, privilege and oppression within different religious communities around the world. Same course as GWST 3523 and REL 3523.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: Humanities
GEOG 3703 Geography Of Oklahoma (S)
Description: Introduction to geography's regional approach through an examination of the cultural and environmental patterns of the State of Oklahoma. Systematic examination of physical regions, natural vegetation, wildlife and resource bases. Exploration of diverse Native American communities as well as European ethnic and African American settlement. Focus on evolving agricultural regions and the mineral industries and population dynamics in both rural and urban areas. Emphasis on cultural landscapes and representation of Oklahoma in popular culture.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: Social & Behavioral Sciences
GEOG 3713 Exploring North America and Diversity (DS)
Description: This course presents a regional analysis of the United States and Canada, including physical and cultural landscapes, population and migration trends, regional development, natural resources, and U.S.-Canada relations as well as global relations. In addition, it emphasizes diversity in both countries, with special attention to those geographies of under-represented and minority groups in the U.S. May not be used for degree credit with GLST 3713.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: Diversity, Social & Behavioral Sciences
GEOG 3723 Europe (IS)
Description: This course examines the cultural, economic, and natural diversity of Europe in relation to globalization, climate change, and popular culture. Basic geographic concepts such as migration, region, and culture will be linked to European current events. Students will learn to properly utilize online sources to understand current European issues and their relationship to other countries and regions around the world. May not be used for degree credit with GLST 3723.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension, Social & Behavioral Sciences
GEOG 3733 Russia and Its Neighbors (IS)
Description: A regional survey course of Eurasia extending from Central Europe to Western Siberia. Central and Southwest Asia will not be considered in this course. Thematic contemporary issues in the region will be covered, including topics on culture, politics, social issues, economic development, and others. May not be used for degree credit with GLST 3733.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension, Social & Behavioral Sciences
GEOG 3743 Latin America (IS)
Description: A regional analysis of physical, cultural and economic features of historic and contemporary Latin America. Key themes include people and environment, development and change, government and conflict, and globalization and social change. Same course as GLST 3743.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension, Social & Behavioral Sciences
GEOG 3753 Asia (IS)
Description: A regional survey course of Asia from Pakistan in the west to the Asian littoral in the east, including Japan, Taiwan, and the Philippines. Central and Southwest Asia will not be considered in this course. Regionally, Asia will be approached through examination of two great cultural focal points: India and China. Thematic contemporary issues in Asia will be covered, including topics on culture, politics, social issues, economic development, and others. Same course as GLST 3753.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension, Social & Behavioral Sciences
GEOG 3763 Africa (IS)
Description: An exploration of the patterns and impact of population, cultural heritage, and natural resources to build an understanding and experience with Africa. Historic and contemporary relationships between Africa and Western civilization. Key themes include traditions and lifeways, development and change, government and conflict, and people and environment. Same course as GLST 3763.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension, Social & Behavioral Sciences
GEOG 3783 The Middle East (IS)
Description: A regional analysis of the Arab, Persian and Turkic lands that builds an understanding and experience with the Middle East. Historic and contemporary patterns highlight both tradition and modernity. Key themes include lifeways and social change, development and globalization, international relations and conflict, and natural resources and environment. Same course as GLST 3783.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension, Social & Behavioral Sciences
GEOG 3793 Australia and the Pacific Realm (IS)
Description: Study of Australia, New Zealand, and the island regions of Micronesia, Melanesia, and Polynesia. Course examines the cultural and natural diversity of these regions in relation to globalization, climate change, and popular culture. Course covers enduring cultural traditions, legacies of external involvement, changing livelihoods and landscapes, and the region's role in global affairs. Same course as GLST 3793.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension, Social & Behavioral Sciences
GEOG 3910 Applied Geographical Topics
Description: Specialized physical, human, regional, or technical issues and trends in geography. Offered for variable credit, 1-3 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.
Credit hours: 1-3
Contact hours: Lecture: 1-3 Contact: 1-3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 3990 Geography Teaching Practicum
Prerequisites: Consent of instructor.
Description: For outstanding students. Students will work with a faculty instructor and assist in many aspects of teaching including guest lecturing, offering study sessions, office hours, among other duties as determined by instructor. May involve meetings and written papers. Offered for variable credit, 1-6 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.
Credit hours: 1-6
Contact hours: Contact: 1-6 Other: 1-6
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Independent Study
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 4003 Natural Hazards and Society
Description: Explores natural hazards and how humans respond and contribute to these hazards and how humans respond and contribute to these hazards and disasters such as earthquakes, extreme weather events and volcanic eruptions. The course will also examine how hazards impact society, how society deals with disasters, and how we can mitigate the effects of such events.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 4023 Arid Lands and Drought (N)
Description: The course explores the world of deserts and semideserts, which together cover almost a half of the Earth's land surface, and almost a third of North America's, as well as areas threatened by drought. The course focuses on the nature of dryland environments and the challenges faced by human communities living in such environments, as well as the mechanisms of drought and desertification. No credit for students with degree credit in GEOG 5023.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: Natural Sciences
GEOG 4053 Biogeography, Biodiversity, and Humankind
Description: Biogeography is the study of spatial patterns of biological diversity and its causes. Biogeographers synthesize information from a very broad range of fields, including geology, ecology, paleontology, and climatology. This course is an introduction to the dynamics of biological distributions, speciation, extinction, and dispersals, island biogeography, and applications to species and biodiversity mapping, and the design and management of reserves and other protected natural territories. May not be used for degree credit with GEOG 5053.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 4063 Geoarchaeology and Environmental History
Description: Theoretical and methodological aspects of geoarchaeology, a discipline that aims at recovering field data for reconstructing environment-society relationships of the past. Key themes include climate change and human-induced land transformation as demonstrated through interdisciplinary research in different geomorphic contexts and cultural groups (hunter gatherers, agriculturalists, and urbanites) from around the world. Meets with GEOG 5063. No credit for students with credit in GEOG 5063.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 4073 Climate Change: Past, Present, and Future
Description: Aims at understanding and discussing the mechanisms of global climate change and how they have functioned in our past, in the recent decades and how scientists predict possible changes in the near and distant future. Meets with GEOG 5073. No credit for students with credit in GEOG 5073.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 4083 Grasslands and Savannas: Evolution and Environmental Issues
Description: This course is an analysis of the nature, distribution, and evolution of grasslands, savannas, and other grass-dominated ecosystems around the world, with emphasis on their co-evolutionary development with climate, herbivore, fire, and humans, and the challenges faced modern global climate change and human development. Meets with GEOG 5083. No credit for students with credit in GEOG 5083.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 4103 Historical Geography of North America since 1800 (H)
Description: Examination of North American development over the 19th Century, with emphasis on the transformation of environments, landscapes and culture regions. Investigation of settlement frontiers, indigenous dispossession, transport integration, resource exploitation, economic specialization, sectional divergence, industrialization, immigration, and urbanization. Same course as HIST 4103.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: Humanities
GEOG 4113 Environment and Development
Description: Focuses on the relationship between people and poverty, environment, and development under different international contexts. The course covers competing theories of environment-development drawing from neoclassical economics and modernization agendas, to criticisms from postcolonial theory and beyond. Special emphasis is placed on diverse voices from the Global South, sustainable development, gender, race and nature, and new social movements. May not be used for degree credit with GEOG 5133.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 4123 Geographical Aspects of Urban Planning
Description: Spatial aspects of urban planning: development of planning theory, various planning tools, and specific problem areas such as urban renewal and urban transportation. May not be used for degree credit with GEOG 5213.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 4143 Geography of Travel and Tourism
Description: A systematic and comprehensive analysis of the geographical dimensions of tourism, illustrating the relevance of a spatial perspective to tourism planning, development, and management. Economic, social, and environmental impact of both domestic and international tourism considered. May not be used for degree credit with GEOG 5143.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 4153 Geography of Outdoor Recreation
Description: Analysis of patterns of outdoor recreation with an emphasis on land-use planning in park and wildland areas. Demand forecasting methods, the analysis of the socioeconomic and spatial impacts of recreation facilities provision and visitor management practices. May not be used for degree credit with GEOG 5153.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 4163 Resource Management in the National Parks
Description: Contemporary resource management issues in U.S. National Park units. The role of human and natural processes in the management of water, air, biotic and cultural resources. No credit for students with credit in GEOG 5163.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 4203 Fundamentals of Geographic Information Systems
Description: Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are pivotal in the analysis and management of geographic data. They are used to link environmental, social, and economic data to locations on earth and explore the relationships, trends, and patterns that emerge. This course introduces the concepts, principles, and theories behind GIS, with emphasis on the nature of geographic information, methods for data collection, data models for storing geographic information, techniques for data input and manipulation, and basic spatial analysis. Previously offered as GEOG 2343. May not be used for degree credit with GEOG 5103.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 2 Lab: 2 Contact: 4
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lab, Lecture, Combined lecture and lab
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 4213 Sport, Place and Society (S)
Description: Spatial analysis of sport; its origin and diffusion, geographical organization and regional variation. Geographical movements and interaction associated with sport. Application of geographical solutions for reorganization and reform. Focus on both U.S. and international scene.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: Social & Behavioral Sciences
GEOG 4223 Geography of Music (H)
Description: Geographical and historical analysis of music as a cultural trait. The cultural significance of music and how it varies from place to place as well as how it helps shape the character of a place.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: Humanities
GEOG 4233 Human Dimensions of Global Environmental Change
Description: Discusses the current global environmental science research agendas called for by the international community, explores the arguments set forth regarding global environmental change, and looks at the current explanations and theories explaining the human dimensions of land-use/cover-change (lucc). Special emphasis is on alternative, competing visions, and needs of developing countries within the context of economic development and global environmental change. Meets with GEOG 5233. No credit for students with credit in GEOG 5233.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 4263 Geospatial Applications for Unmanned Aerial Systems
Prerequisites: Consent of instructor.
Description: Provides theoretical foundation for use of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to collect geospatial data for analysis. Examines principles of remote sensing, photogrammetry, and GIS relevant to UAS. Enabling technologies (sensors, GPS), data collection procedures, data processing (structure from Motion algorithms), data products (point clouds, orthophotos), and appropriate analysis techniques are investigated. Geospatial application areas include terrain modeling, resource management, agriculture, forestry/vegetation, natural disasters, and geomorphology. May not be used for degree credit with GEOG 5263.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 4273 Land Use Science
Description: Basic understanding of human land use history and changes. Evaluation of land use impacts on environment, climate, and public health. Introduction to land use monitoring and modeling using geospatial technologies. Meet with GEOG 5273. No credit for students with credit in GEOG 5273.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 4303 Applications of the Global Positioning System in Field Research
Description: Theory and applications of the Global Positioning System (GPS), focusing on accuracy issues in field data collection and integration with geographic information systems (GIS). Use of both recreation and mapping grade receivers. May not be used for degree credit with GEOG 5503.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 4313 Field Techniques and Geodata Collection
Prerequisites: Senior standing in GEOG or consent of instructor.
Description: Application of the concepts, methods, and field techniques for geographical analysis and research, including data acquisition, manipulation, analysis, and the presentation of results. Capstone course. Field trips.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 4323 Mapping in Modern Society
Description: Thematic mapping and geovisualization of socioeconomic, cultural, and natural resource information. Discussion and application of various map design and layout techniques. Topics include the history of maps their types and usages, the various elements of a map layout, and how maps enable us to communicate spatial information in our modern world.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 2 Lab: 2 Contact: 4
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lab, Lecture, Combined lecture and lab
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 4333 Remote Sensing
Description: Introductory course in remote sensing focusing on digital image processing. Topics include data collection via satellites and unmanned aerial systems (a.k.a. drones), principles of electromagnetic radiation, multispectral, thermal, and light detection and ranging (LIDAR), and field data collection. Discussions focus on environmental applications including: agriculture, natural resource management, climate, geography, and wildlife management. Hands-on exposure to current image processing software. Meets with GEOG 5333. May not be used for degree credit with GEOG 5333.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 2 Lab: 2 Contact: 4
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lab, Lecture, Combined lecture and lab
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 4343 Geographic Information Systems: Resource Management Applications
Prerequisites: GEOG 4203.
Description: Provides a theoretical and practical understanding of geographic information systems and its applications in natural resource management. Introduces industry popular GIS software for spatial and aspatial data analysis. Explores specific conditions, requirements, and processing considerations that allow geospatial data to be manipulated for problem solving. Meets with GEOG 5323. No degree credit for students with credit in GEOG 5323.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 2 Lab: 2 Contact: 4
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lab, Lecture, Combined lecture and lab
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 4353 Geographic Information Systems: Socioeconomic Applications
Prerequisites: GEOG 4203.
Description: Theory and principles of geographic information systems (GIS) applied to socioeconomic problems, including location-allocation, market area determination, network analysis and analysis of demographic characteristics. May not be used for degree credit with GEOG 5253.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 4373 Geographic Information Systems in Public Health
Prerequisites: GEOG 4203.
Description: Qualitative and quantitative analysis of public health issues from two geographic perspectives: human environment and spatial. Topics include medical geography, disease mapping, spatial data for public health, and basics and applications of spatial statistics, geographic information system and remote sensing. Lectures are combined with case studies and lab illustrations throughout the course.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 4383 Introduction to GIS Programming
Prerequisites: GEOG 4203.
Description: Designed to provide students with an introduction to basic programming concepts and how such concepts specifically apply to GIS and other geographically oriented applications. The course will cover some basic concepts, discuss Python and Model Builder for ArcGIS, KML/KMZ for Google Earth/Maps, and introduce some basic concepts of mobile mapping development in Android. May not be used for degree credit with GEOG 5383.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 4443 Sustainable Tourism and Geography
Prerequisites: Junior or senior standing or consent of instructor.
Description: This course examines sustainable tourism from a cultural and environmental perspective. It discusses concepts and theories of sustainability and tourism, including human rights, environmental justice, and ethics, emphasizing the global environmental and social effects and possibilities of tourism. The course addresses management concepts, sectoral approaches, transport and mobility themes, and emerging issues in the context of sustainability. May not be used for degree credit with GEOG 5443. Same course as GLST 4443 and HRAD 4183.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 4453 Black Geographies & Memorialization in the Landscape (DH)
Prerequisites: Junior or senior standing or consent of instructor.
Description: How and why have African American people sought to memorialize their history in public places? How have Black counterpublics shaped discourse on memorials to African American history? What has this discourse done to the field of landscape and memory studies? To explore these questions, this course is organized around memory in the landscape as it relates to black geographies, including, for example, slavery, the Civil War, civil rights, and the Tulsa Race Massacre in the United States. Approaches may be comparative or transnational. Same course as AMST 4453 and AFAM 4453. May not be used for degree credit with GEOG 5453.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: Diversity, Humanities
GEOG 4510 Senior Project
Prerequisites: Senior standing and consent of instructor.
Description: Individually designed projects involving laboratory work, field work, library research or a combination of these. Offered for variable credit, 1-3 credit hours, maximum of 3 credit hours.
Credit hours: 1-3
Contact hours: Contact: 1-3 Other: 1-3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Independent Study
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 4600 Geography Study Abroad (I)
Description: Participation in an international experience sponsored by the Department of Geography. Study Abroad courses typically involve the study of a country or region to provide an integrated understanding, through research and personal experience, of relevant cultural, historical, political, economic and environmental issues. Offered for variable credit, 1-3 credit hours, maximum of 12 credit hours.
Credit hours: 1-3
Contact hours: Lecture: 1-3 Contact: 1-3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension
GEOG 4663 Web GIS: Trends, Principles, and Applications
Prerequisites: GEOG 4203.
Description: Web GIS has immense applicability to business, health, economics, transportation, and more. This course is designed to increase students' knowledge of Web GIS and cutting-edge GIS skills. It introduces basic Web GIS concepts, principles, techniques, including web mapping applications. In addition, this course offers essential web programming skills to build customized online maps. May not be used for degree credit with GEOG 5663.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 2 Lab: 2 Contact: 4
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lab, Lecture, Combined lecture and lab
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 4910 Topics In Geography
Prerequisites: Consent of instructor.
Description: Specialized physical, social and methodological topics in geography. Offered for variable credit, 1-3 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.
Credit hours: 1-3
Contact hours: Contact: 1-3 Other: 1-3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Independent Study
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 4930 Readings in Geography
Prerequisites: Consent of instructor.
Description: Directed readings on selected topics, regions or methods in geography. Offered for variable credit, 1-3 credit hours, maximum of 3 credit hours.
Credit hours: 1-3
Contact hours: Contact: 1-3 Other: 1-3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Independent Study
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 4940 Undergraduate Cooperative Education Internship
Prerequisites: Consent of departmental internship coordinator and undergraduate committee.
Description: Practical experience in applying geographical concepts and tools to business or governmental problems. Emphasis on educational aspects of applying discipline-related tools to real-world problems. Credit not available for regular employment positions; must have fixed start/end dates. Offered for variable credit, 1-3 credit hours, maximum of 3 credit hours.
Credit hours: 1-3
Contact hours: Contact: 1-3 Other: 1-3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Independent Study
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 4943 Geospatial Information Science Internship/Research Capstone
Description: Provides an opportunity to apply knowledge accumulated throughout previous geospatial coursework with a structured off-campus internship or on-campus research capstone. Practical, applied geospatial experience is gained by working with an internship supervisor at a public or private entity in consultation with an affiliated geography faculty member. Alternatively, research-oriented experience is gained through direct collaboration with an affiliated geography faculty member. For both options, student duties may include field-based data collection, data processing, computer programming, spatial analysis/modeling, map and graphics production, oral presentation, and/or writing.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Contact: 3 Other: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Independent Study
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 4993 Senior Honors Thesis
Prerequisites: Departmental invitation, senior standing, Honors Program participation.
Description: A guided reading and research program ending with an honors thesis under the direction of a senior faculty member, with second faculty reader, both of whom will be present at an oral defense of the thesis. Required for graduation with honors in geography.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Contact: 3 Other: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Independent Study
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: Honors Credit
GEOG 5000 Thesis
Prerequisites: Consent of adviser or major professor.
Description: Open only to students working on the master's degree in geography. Offered for variable credit, 1-6 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.
Credit hours: 1-6
Contact hours: Contact: 1-6 Other: 1-6
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Independent Study
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5001 Professional Development in Geography
Description: Introduction and orientation to the graduate program in the Department of Geography.
Credit hours: 1
Contact hours: Lecture: 1 Contact: 1
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5023 Arid Lands and Drought
Description: The course explores the world of deserts and semi-deserts, which together cover almost a half of the Earth's land surface, and almost a third of North America's, as well as areas threatened by drought. The course focuses on the nature of dryland environments and the challenges faced by human communities living in such environments, as well as the mechanisms of drought and desertification.No credit for students with credit in GEOG 4023.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5053 Biogeography, Biodiversity, and Humankind
Description: Biogeography is the study of spatial patterns of biological diversity and its causes. Biogeographers synthesize information from a very broad range of fields, including geology, ecology, paleontology, and climatology. This course is an introduction to the dynamics of biological distributions, speciation, extinction, and dispersals, island biogeography, and applications to species and biodiversity mapping, and the design and management of reserves and other protected natural territories. No credit for students with credit in GEOG 4053.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5063 Geoarchaeology and Environmental History
Description: Theoretical and methodological aspects of geoarchaeology, a discipline that aims at recovering field data for reconstructing environment-society relationships of the past. Key themes include climate change and human-induced land transformation as demonstrated through interdisciplinary research in different geomorphic contexts and cultural groups (hunter gatherers, agriculturalists, and urbanites) from around the world. Meets with GEOG 4063. No credit for students with credit in GEOG 4063.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5073 Climate Change: Past, Present and Future
Description: Aims at understanding and discussing the mechanisms of global climate change and how they have functioned in our past, in the recent decades and how scientists predict possible changes in the near and distant future. Meets with GEOG 4073. No credit for students with credit in GEOG 4073.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5083 Grasslands and Savannas: Evolution and Environmental Issues
Description: This course is an analysis of the nature, distribution, and evolution of grasslands, savannas, and other grass-dominated ecosystems around the world, with emphasis on their co-evolutionary development with climate, herbivore, fire, and humans, and the challenges faced by modern global climate change and human development. No credit for students with credit in GEOG 4083.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5103 Fundamentals of Geographic Information Systems
Description: Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are pivotal in the analysis and management of geographic data. They are used to link environmental, social, and economic data to locations on earth and explore the relationships, trends, and patterns that emerge. This course introduces the concepts, principles, and theories behind GIS, with emphasis on the nature of geographic information, methods for data collection, data models for storing geographic information, techniques for data input and manipulation, and basic spatial analysis. May not be used for degree credit with GEOG 4203.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 2 Lab: 2 Contact: 4
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lab, Lecture, Combined lecture and lab
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5113 Landscape Ecology
Prerequisites: Graduate standing and BIOL 3034 or consent of instructor.
Description: Principles of landscape ecology, including structure and function of landscape elements such as patch, corridor, boundary, and matrix. Role of geographic processes, climate, biota, disturbance, and human influences in landscape structure and function. Interaction among landscape elements and role of landscape structure in ecosystem and landscape dynamics. Applications of landscape ecology to biodiversity conservation, wildlife management, and landscape planning. Survey of quantitative methods used in landscape ecology.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5123 International Resource Management
Prerequisites: Graduate standing.
Description: Spatial perspectives on the assessment and management of natural resources. The role of resources in world trade, security and international environmental concerns.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5133 Environment and Development
Description: Focuses on the relationship between people and poverty, environment, and development under different international contexts. The course covers competing theories of environment-development drawing from neoclassical economics and modernization agendas, to criticisms from postcolonial theory and beyond. Special emphasis is placed on diverse voices from the Global South, sustainable development, gender, race and nature, and new social movements. May not be used for degree credit with GEOG 4113.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5140 Seminar in Cultural Geography
Prerequisites: Graduate standing in geography or consent of the instructor.
Description: A study of the methodological and theoretical development of cultural geography, one of geography's major subdisciplines. Course is structured around the social and political implications of ways of seeing, and what these have meant for encountering and understanding cultural difference. Emphasis on reading the cultural landscape and interrogating how the landscape reinforces certain ideologies, values, and aesthetics. Critical analysis of geographical representations found in place images, popular culture, and art in relation to social power, race, gender, and identity. Offered for variable credit, 1-3 credit hours, maximum of 9 credit hours.
Credit hours: 1-3
Contact hours: Contact: 1-3 Other: 1-3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Independent Study
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5143 Geography of Travel and Tourism
Description: A systematic and comprehensive analysis of the geographical dimensions of tourism, illustrating the relevance of a spatial perspective to tourism planning, development, and management. Economic, social, and environmental impact of both domestic and international tourism considered. May not be used for degree credit with GEOG 4143.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5150 Geography of Sport, Recreation and Leisure Seminar
Description: This seminar is comprised of an advanced analysis of one or more topics in Sport Geography. The topics can include both cultural and economic issues in the spatial distribution of sport, or any other spatial aspect of the play, diffusion, or impact of sport. The seminar will also focus on student research activities on specific topics to sport geography. Offered for variable credit, 1-3 credit hours, maximum of 3 credit hours.
Credit hours: 1-3
Contact hours: Lecture: 1-3 Contact: 1-3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5153 Geography of Outdoor Recreation
Description: Analysis of patterns of outdoor recreation with an emphasis on land-use planning in park and wildland areas. Demand forecasting methods, the analysis of the socioeconomic and spatial impacts of recreation facilities provision and visitor management practices. May not be used for degree credit with GEOG 4153.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5163 Resource Management in the National Parks
Description: Contemporary resource management issues in U.S. National Park units. Focus on the role of human and natural processes in the management of water, air, biotic and cultural resources. No credit for students with credit in GEOG 4163.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5183 Topics in Transportation Geography
Description: Examination of a selected set of advanced topics in transportation geography, including network analysis, facility location problems, intelligent transportation systems and geographic information systems and logistics.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5213 Geographical Aspects of Urban Planning
Description: Spatial aspects of urban planning: development of planning theory, various planning tools, and specific problem areas such as urban renewal and urban transportation. May not be used for degree credit with GEOG 4123.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5233 Human Dimensions of Global Environmental Change
Description: Discusses the current global environmental science research agendas called for by the international community, explores the arguments set forth regarding global environmental change, and looks at the current explanations and theories explaining the human dimensions of land-use/cover-change (lucc). Special emphasis is on alternative, competing visions, and needs of developing countries within the context of economic development and global environmental change. Meets with GEOG 4233. No credit for students with credit in GEOG 4233.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5243 Geography of the World's Indigenous Peoples
Prerequisites: Graduate standing and consent of instructor.
Description: A regional survey of indigenous assertions of cultural, political and economic self-determination outside the United States. Native land claims, impact of regional development and environmental issues upon indigenous communities, and their efforts to establish geo-political autonomy.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5253 Geographic Information Systems: Socioeconomic Applications
Prerequisites: GEOG 4203.
Description: Theory and principles of geographic information systems (GIS) applied to socioeconomic problems, including location-allocation, market area determination, network analysis and analysis of demographic characteristics. May not be used for degree credit with GEOG 4353.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5263 Geospatial Applications for Unmanned Aerial Systems
Prerequisites: Consent of instructor.
Description: Provides theoretical foundation for use of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to collect geospatial data for analysis. Examines principles of remote sensing, photogrammetry, and GIS relevant to UAS. Enabling technologies (sensors, GPS), data collection procedures, data processing (Structure from Motion algorithms), data products (point clouds, orthophotos), and appropriate analysis techniques are investigated. Geospatial application areas include terrain modeling, resource management, agriculture, forestry/vegetation, natural disasters, and geomorphology. May not be used for degree credit with GEOG 4263.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5273 Land Use Science
Description: Basic understanding of human land use history and changes. Evaluation of land use impacts on environment, climate, and public health. Introduction to land use monitoring and modeling using geospatial technologies. Meets with GEOG 4273. No credit for students with credit in GEOG 4273.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5303 Geographic Analysis I
Prerequisites: One course in statistics.
Description: An intermediate course in the application of statistical methods to spatial problems. Focuses on multivariate methods (e.g. multiple regression, factor and cluster analysis) and their use in geographic settings and with spatial datasets. Includes introductory spatial regression, methods for detecting spatial clusters (spatial autocorrelation), and the importance of exploratory spatial data analysis (ESDA) in geographic research. Course previously offered as GEOG 5313.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5323 Geographic Information Systems: Resource Management Applications
Prerequisites: GEOG 4203 or instructor permission.
Description: Provides a theoretical and practical understanding of geographic information systems and its applications in natural resource management. Introduces industry popular GIS software for spatial and aspatial data analysis. Explores specific conditions, requirements, and processing considerations that allow geospatial data to be manipulated for problem solving. Meets with GEOG 4343. No degree credit for students with credit in GEOG 4343.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 2 Lab: 2 Contact: 4
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lab, Lecture, Combined lecture and lab
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5333 Remote Sensing
Description: Introductory course in remote sensing focusing on digital image processing. Topics include data collection via satellites and unmanned aerial systems (a.k.a. drones), principles of electromagnetic radiation, multispectral, thermal, and light detection and ranging (LIDAR), and field data collection. Discussions focus on environmental applications including: agriculture, natural resource management, climate, geography, and wildlife management. Hands-on exposure to current image processing software. Meets with GEOG 4333. May not be used for degree credit with GEOG 4333.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 2 Lab: 2 Contact: 4
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lab, Lecture, Combined lecture and lab
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5343 Advanced Geographic Information Systems: Resource Management Applications
Prerequisites: GEOG 4343 or GEOG 5323.
Description: Advanced theory and applications of geographic information systems (GIS) applied to resource management problems using both raster and vector data structures. Individual projects, presentations and group discussion sessions.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5353 Advanced Geographic Information Systems: Socioeconomic Applications
Prerequisites: GEOG 4353 or GEOG 5253.
Description: Advanced theory and applications of geographic information systems (GIS) applied to socioeconomic problems including location allocation, market area determination, network analysis, and analysis of demographic characteristics. Individual projects, presentations and group discussion sessions.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5363 Enterprise Geographic Information Systems
Prerequisites: GEOG 4353 or equivalent.
Description: Basic setup and creation of online geodatabases and Internet mapping services as would be used in a large scale GIS operation or enterprise. Geodatabase design and Internet mapservice Web site development.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5373 Geographic Information Systems in Public Health
Prerequisites: GEOG 4203 or instructor permission.
Description: This course introduces the applications of GIS and spatial analysis in exploring and analyzing geospatial health datasets. The course focuses on preparing, organizing, and mapping health datasets, detecting disease clusters, measuring and optimizing health services, and applying spatial statistical models to various public health applications, such as infectious disease, environmental health, health service access, and health disparities. Students will learn how to acquire spatial data, visualize geographic trends, and formulate hypotheses for health applications. May not be used for degree credit with GEOG 4373.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 2 Lab: 2 Contact: 4
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lab, Lecture, Combined lecture and lab
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5383 Introduction to GIS Programming
Prerequisites: GEOG 4203 or GEOG 5103.
Description: Designed to provide students with an introduction to basic programming concepts and how such concepts specifically apply to GIS and other geographically oriented applications. The course will cover some basic concepts, discuss Python and Model Builder for ArcGIS, KML/KMZ for Google Earth/Maps, and introduce some basic concepts of mobile mapping development in Android. May not be used for degree credit with GEOG 4383.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5393 Remote Sensing of Water Resources
Prerequisites: GEOG 2323 or GEOG 4333.
Description: Advanced theories and techniques of remote sensing applied to various issues in water resources management. Sensor characteristics, theoretical algorithms, digital image processing, and field methods to extract information of multiple aspects valuable for both hydrological modeling and decision-making. Advantages and limitations of remote sensing compared to traditional methods will be explored.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5403 Current Geographic Research
Prerequisites: Graduate standing in geography or consent of instructor.
Description: Representative survey of current research across the discipline of modern Geography so as to broaden perspectives and appreciation of Geography's breadth and impact. Emphasis on the discipline's major affinity groups, their notable institutions and individuals, and their impact toward the greater good. Exercises familiarize students with the process of developing a thesis or dissertation proposal, from determining an area of emphasis, identifying a research problem, conducting a literature review, and developing and defending a thesis or dissertation proposal.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5413 History and Philosophy of Geography
Prerequisites: Graduate standing in geography or consent of the instructor.
Description: Study of the making of geography as an academic discipline, and the evolution of geographic thought and practice. A critical inquiry into the production of geographic knowledge as it has changed over time and in relation to developments in science and society. Discussions examine significant theoretical and methodological "turns" and explore the influences of key individuals, institutions, and major debates.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5423 Geographic Renderings in Qualitative Methods
Prerequisites: SCFD 5913 or SCFD 6123 or SOC 5273 or consent of instructor.
Description: Seminar engages with geographic facets in qualitative research and provides students with experience in collecting and working with qualitative data. Students explore avenues of qualitative inquiry in cross-cultural, community participation, and storytelling/testimonial/oral history/life history, and ethnographic research with special consideration to space, place, scale, context, body, and senses. Course addresses issues involved with analysis, interpretation, and "writing-up" research.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5443 Sustainable Tourism and Geography
Prerequisites: Junior or senior standing or consent of instructor.
Description: This course examines sustainable tourism from a cultural and environmental perspective. It discusses concepts and theories of sustainability and tourism, including human rights, environmental justice, and ethics, emphasizing the global environmental and social effects and possibilities of tourism. The course addresses management concepts, sectoral approaches, transport and mobility themes, and emerging issues in the context of sustainability. May not be used for degree credit with GEOG 4443.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5450 Seminar in Geography
Prerequisites: Graduate standing in geography or consent of instructor.
Description: Specialized topics in Geography. Offered for variable credit, 1-6 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.
Credit hours: 1-6
Contact hours: Contact: 1-6 Other: 1-6
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Independent Study
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5453 Black Geographies & Memorialization in the Landscape
Description: How and why have African American people sought to memorialize their history in public places? How have Black counterpublics shaped discourse on memorials to African American history? What has this discourse done to the field of landscape and memory studies? To explore these questions, this course is organized around memory in the landscape as it relates to black geographies, including, for example, slavery, the Civil War, civil rights, and the Tulsa Race Massacre in the United States. Approaches may be comparative or transnational. May not be used for degree credit with AFAM 4453, AMST 4453, or GEOG 4453.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5503 Applications of the Global Positioning System in Field Research
Description: Theory and applications of the Global Positioning System (GPS), focusing on accuracy issues in field data collection and integration with geographic information systems (GIS). Use of both recreation and mapping grade receivers. May not be used for degree credit with GEOG 4303.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5510 Research Problems in Geography
Prerequisites: Consent of instructor.
Description: Offered for variable credit, 1-3 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.
Credit hours: 1-3
Contact hours: Contact: 1-3 Other: 1-3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Independent Study
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5663 Web GIS: Trends, Principles, and Applications
Prerequisites: GEOG 4203 or instructor permission.
Description: Web GIS has immense applicability to business, health, economics, transportation, and more. This course is designed to increase students' knowledge of Web GIS and cutting-edge GIS skills. It introduces basic Web GIS concepts, principles, techniques, including web mapping applications. In addition, this course offers essential web programming skills to build customized online maps. May not be used for degree credit with GEOG 4663.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 2 Lab: 2 Contact: 4
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lab, Lecture, Combined lecture and lab
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5700 Geography Study Abroad
Description: Participation in an international experience sponsored by the Department of Geography. Study Abroad courses typically involve the study of a country or region to provide an integrated understanding, through research and personal experience, of relevant cultural, historical, political, economic, and environmental issues. Offered for variable credit, 1-3 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.
Credit hours: 1-3
Contact hours: Lecture: 1-3 Contact: 1-3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5930 Readings in Geography
Prerequisites: Consent of instructor.
Description: Directed readings on selected topics, regions or methods in geography. Offered for variable credit, 1-3 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.
Credit hours: 1-3
Contact hours: Contact: 1-3 Other: 1-3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Independent Study
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 5940 Graduate Cooperative Education Internship
Prerequisites: Consent of departmental internship coordinator and graduate committee.
Description: Practical experience in applying geographical concepts and tools to business or governmental problems. Emphasis on educational aspects of applying discipline-related tools to real-world problems. Credit not available for regular employment positions; must have fixed start/end dates. Offered for variable credit, 1-3 credit hours, maximum of 3 credit hours.
Credit hours: 1-3
Contact hours: Contact: 1-3 Other: 1-3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Independent Study
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 6000 Doctoral Dissertation Research
Prerequisites: Admission to candidacy and consent of major professor.
Description: Offered for variable credit, 1-12 credit hours, maximum of 30 credit hours.
Credit hours: 1-12
Contact hours: Contact: 1-12 Other: 1-12
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Independent Study
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 6013 Seminar in Quaternary Paleoecology
Prerequisites: Graduate standing in geography or consent of instructor.
Description: Analysis and discussion of various aspects of research on the Quaternary period, emphasizing the roles played by climate, geomorphic processes, vegetation, soil and fauna.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 6110 Seminar in Cultural and Political Ecology
Prerequisites: Graduate standing in geography or consent of instructor.
Description: Study of the relationship between culture and environment and competing theories of human-environment interactions. Traces the roots of cultural ecology starting with classic ecological systems and adaptation theory, to criticisms leading to the development of "political" and "hybrid" ecologies. Course focuses on Marxist influences, inequalities of third world development, gender and resource management, social and environmental movements, indigenous knowledge, natural disasters and environmental vulnerability. Offered for fixed credit, 3 credit hours.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Contact: 3 Other: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Independent Study
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 6120 Seminar in Urban Geography
Prerequisites: Graduate standing in geography or consent of instructor.
Description: Analysis of research on urban systems, internal morphology, urban problems and urban spatial behavior. Review and analysis of student research efforts. Offered for fixed credit, 3 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Contact: 3 Other: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Independent Study
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 6130 Seminar in Political Geography
Prerequisites: Graduate standing in geography or consent of instructor.
Description: Theoretical foundations of political geography from MacKinder and Hartshorne to recent writings by Smith, Anderson and other modern theorists. Nationalism, national identity, state formation and cohesion considered in a spatial context. Offered for fixed credit, 3 credit hours.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Contact: 3 Other: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Independent Study
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 6180 Seminar in Transportation Geography
Prerequisites: Graduate standing.
Description: Examination of transportation systems, emphasizing their effects on trade, land use, location issues, and development. Review of trends, problems, and methods related to transport issues. Offered for fixed credit, 3 credit hours.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Contact: 3 Other: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Independent Study
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 6210 Seminar in Historical Geography
Prerequisites: Graduate standing.
Description: This seminar explores historical geographic research concerning places and environments, the dynamics of place, space, and landscape as well as how the past shapes the geographies of the present and the future. It considers methodological practices and theoretical understandings associated with historical geographic scholarship. Offered for fixed credit, 3 credit hours.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Contact: 3 Other: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Independent Study
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 6303 Geographic Analysis II
Prerequisites: GEOG 5303.
Description: An advanced course in the application of statistical methods to spatial problems. Focuses on univariate and bivariate spatial autocorrelation, geographically weighted regression (GWR), spatial weighting, and visualization of geostatistical data. Heavy emphasis on current research in geospatial techniques and student research.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 6313 Mixed Methods in Field Research
Prerequisites: Graduate standing in geography or consent of instructor.
Description: This course will expose students to a variety of qualitative and quantitative techniques useful in successfully designing and completing field research. Special focus will include research and survey design, interviewing, ethnography, and visual techniques such as the use of imagery, photography, sketch mapping, and Global Positioning Systems (GPS) for the collection and analysis of geospatial data. Required field trips.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 6333 Advanced Remote Sensing
Prerequisites: GEOG 4333 or GEOG 5333.
Description: Provides in-depth theoretical exploration of advanced remote sensing and image analysis techniques. Special topics include advanced classifications, hyperspectral imagery, and LiDAR. Specific issues surrounding data capture, image processing, and analysis will be discussed to prepare students for semester-long research projects.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 6910 Topics in Geography
Prerequisites: Consent of instructor.
Description: Specialized physical, social and methodological topics in geography. Offered for variable credit, 1-3 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.
Credit hours: 1-3
Contact hours: Contact: 1-3 Other: 1-3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Independent Study
Department/School: Geography
GEOG 6930 Readings in Geography
Prerequisites: Consent of instructor.
Description: Directed readings on selected topics, regions or methods in geography. Offered for variable credit, 1-3 credit hours, maximum of 6 credit hours.
Credit hours: 1-3
Contact hours: Contact: 1-3 Other: 1-3
Levels: Graduate
Schedule types: Independent Study
Department/School: Geography
GLST 1713 Regions & Nations in Global Context (IS)
Description: A regional approach to the study of human societies and the makeup of nations around the world, with an emphasis on contemporary issues such as climate change, sustainability and other environmental impacts; population and immigration; culture, religion and language; and economic characteristics such as wealth disparities, poverty and education. This course covers many distinct world regions such as Europe, Latin America, the Middle East and Southeast Asia. Same course as GEOG 1713.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension, Social & Behavioral Sciences
GLST 2002 Global Sustainability (N)
Description: This course examines questions of sustainability and sustainable development in a global context from environmental, social, and economic perspectives. Emphasis is placed on how different dimensions of sustainability interact, and how those interactions are shaped by regional context in a globalized world. Through discussion of policy and current environmental issues around the world, students will learn to analyze relationships and tradeoffs between humans and their environment. Same course as GEOG 2002.
Credit hours: 2
Contact hours: Lecture: 2 Contact: 2
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: Natural Sciences
GLST 2103 Global Perspectives (IS)
Description: Introduces students to the cultural, economic, and political aspects of globalization and global issues. Emphasizes the relationship between tradition and change, the interconnectedness of people, places, and institutions, aspects of social and economic development, and the evolving role of technology in creating and sustaining a globalized world. Also introduces students to possible career options. Same course as GEOG 2103.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension, Social & Behavioral Sciences
GLST 3053 Introduction to Central Asia Studies (IS)
Description: A comprehensive view of newly-emerged Central Asian states, examining the history, politics, economics, geography, and culture of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan as reflected in their thoughts, religion, literature, and architecture in the past, and the strategic importance of their natural wealth for the present and future. Same course as GEOG 3053, HIST 3053, POLS 3053, and RUSS 3053.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension, Social & Behavioral Sciences
GLST 3113 Global Water Resources: Sustainability & Justice
Description: Water resources are key to the success of societies in all of their various forms. This course introduces students to fundamental concepts of water resources, including the natural processes of the hydrological cycle, management of water resources, and societal threats to sustaining water quantity and quality. Students in this course will develop an awareness and appreciation of the multiple perspectives about water as a precious resource, commodity, and point of justice. Same course as GEOG 3113.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lab, Lecture, Combined lecture and lab
Department/School: Geography
GLST 3713 Exploring North America and Diversity (DS)
Description: This course presents a regional analysis of the United States and Canada, including physical and cultural landscapes, population and migration trends, regional development, natural resources, and U.S.-Canada relations as well as global relations. In addition, it emphasizes diversity in both countries, with special attention to those geographies of under-represented and minority groups in the U.S. Same course as GEOG 3713.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: Diversity, Social & Behavioral Sciences
GLST 3723 Europe (IS)
Description: This course examines the cultural, economic, and natural diversity of Europe in relation to globalization, climate change, and popular culture. Basic geographic concepts such as migration, region, and culture will be linked to European current events. Students will learn to properly utilize online sources to understand current European issues and their relationship to other countries and regions around the world. Same course as GEOG 3723.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension, Social & Behavioral Sciences
GLST 3733 Russia and Its Neighbors (IS)
Description: A regional survey course of Eurasia extending from Central Europe to Western Siberia. Central and Southwest Asia will not be considered in this course. Thematic contemporary issues in the region will be covered, including topics on culture, politics, social issues, economic development, and others. Same course as GEOG 3733.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension, Social & Behavioral Sciences
GLST 3743 Latin America (IS)
Description: A regional analysis of physical, cultural and economic features of historic and contemporary Latin America. Key themes include people and environment, development and change, government and conflict, and globalization and social change. Same course as GEOG 3743.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension, Social & Behavioral Sciences
GLST 3753 Asia (IS)
Description: A regional survey course of Asia from Pakistan in the west to the Asian littoral in the east, including Japan, Taiwan, and the Philippines. Central and Southwest Asia will not be considered in this course. Regionally, Asia will be approached through examination of two great cultural focal points: India and China. Thematic contemporary issues in Asia will be covered, including topics on culture, politics, social issues, economic development, and others. Same course as GEOG 3753.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension, Social & Behavioral Sciences
GLST 3763 Africa (IS)
Description: An exploration of the patterns and impact of population, cultural heritage, and natural resources to build an understanding and experience with Africa. Historic and contemporary relationships between Africa and Western civilization. Key themes include traditions and lifeways, development and change, government and conflict, and people and environment. Same course as GEOG 3763.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension, Social & Behavioral Sciences
GLST 3783 The Middle East (IS)
Description: A regional analysis of the Arab, Persian and Turkic lands that builds an understanding and experience with the Middle East. Historic and contemporary patterns highlight both tradition and modernity. Key themes include lifeways and social change, development and globalization, international relations and conflict, and natural resources and environment. Same course as GEOG 3783.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension, Social & Behavioral Sciences
GLST 3793 Australia and the Pacific Realm (IS)
Description: Study of Australia, New Zealand, and the island regions of Micronesia, Melanesia, and Polynesia. Course examines the cultural and natural diversity of these regions in relation to globalization, climate change, and popular culture. Course covers enduring cultural traditions, legacies of external involvement, changing livelihoods and landscapes, and the region's role in global affairs. Same course as GEOG 3793.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
General Education and other Course Attributes: International Dimension, Social & Behavioral Sciences
GLST 4443 Sustainable Tourism and Geography
Prerequisites: Junior or senior standing or consent of instructor.
Description: This course examines sustainable tourism from a cultural and environmental perspective. It discusses concepts and theories of sustainability and tourism, including human rights, environmental justice, and ethics, emphasizing the global environmental and social effects and possibilities of tourism. The course addresses management concepts, sectoral approaches, transport and mobility themes, and emerging issues in the context of sustainability. May not be used for degree credit with GEOG 4443 and HRAD 4183.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Lecture: 3 Contact: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Lecture
Department/School: Geography
GLST 4513 Senior Capstone Experience
Prerequisites: Consent of the instructor and advisor.
Description: Designed specifically for Global Studies majors. Reviews key literature, relates coursework in the major to career plans, and culminates in a research project. Students design and execute a research project and give an oral presentation based on their project and experience.
Credit hours: 3
Contact hours: Contact: 3 Other: 3
Levels: Undergraduate
Schedule types: Independent Study
Department/School: Geography
- Geography, BA
- Geography, BS
- Geography: Business Essentials, BA
- Geography: Business Essentials, BS
- Geography: Pre-Law, BA
- Geography: Pre-Ministry, BA
- Geospatial Information Science, BS
- Global Studies, BA
- Global Studies: Business Essentials, BA
- Global Studies: Pre-Law, BA
- Global Studies: Pre-Ministry, BA
The Department of Geography offers MS and PhD degrees. We have a vibrant graduate program that is built around three broad areas of emphasis: the study of nature-society dynamics, including resource management; GIScience, including unmanned aerial systems; and cultural and historical geography. Major faculty specializations include public health, water security, GIS, remote sensing, climate science, human dimensions of global environmental change, cultural and historical geography, urban and transportation geography, political geography, geoarchaeology, and spatial analysis.
Particular emphasis is placed on the applied aspects of geography, with many graduates employed by private business as well as city, regional, state and national planning agencies. Our graduates have been highly successful in their careers, taking up positions involving city planning, environmental assessment, and university teaching and research, among many others.
The Master of Science Degree
Admission to the master's program in geography is granted to college graduates with superior academic records. An undergraduate geography major is not required. Majors from the social, physical, and behavioral sciences and from the humanities are encouraged to apply. Incoming graduate students must demonstrate competency in cultural geography, physical geography, statistics and cartography. If a student lacks these prerequisite skills, an additional course in each of these subjects is required.
Thesis and non-thesis options exist for the master's degree. The thesis option requires a minimum of 30 credit hours, including a thesis. The non-thesis option requires 36 credit hours. Plans of study can be developed to accommodate many interests.
The Doctor of Philosophy Degree
Admission to the PhD program is granted to students with superior records in their previous graduate study. A previous degree in geography is not required, but incoming students from other disciplines must demonstrate competency in cultural geography, physical geography, statistics and cartography. If a student lacks these prerequisite skills, an additional course in each of these subjects is required. A minimum of 60 hours of graduate credit beyond the master's degree is required for the PhD degree. These hours include core courses (13 hours), elective courses in geography (15 hours minimum), elective courses outside of geography (9 hours minimum), and dissertation hours (15 hours minimum). Each student chooses an individual doctoral committee that advises the student in the formulation of an approved plan of study for the degree. Candidates for the PhD in geography must demonstrate either:
- proficiency in one language other than English,
- reading knowledge of two languages other than English,
- proficiency in advanced quantitative methods,
- proficiency in advanced qualitative methods, or
- proficiency in a multi-skill track.
To be advanced to doctoral candidacy, the student must demonstrate proficiency in three specialized subject areas within geography and related disciplines by passing written and oral comprehensive examinations. An important requirement for the PhD degree is the preparation and successful defense of a doctoral dissertation. The dissertation must demonstrate the candidate's ability to plan and complete independent, original research in geography.
Jonathan C. Comer, PhD—Professor and Head
Professors: Carlos E. Cordova, PhD; Alyson L. Greiner, PhD; Reuel R. Hanks, PhD; Dale R. Lightfoot, PhD (emeritus); Rebecca Sheehan, PhD; Stephen J. Stadler, PhD (emeritus); Thomas A. Wikle, PhD (emeritus)
Associate Professors: Brad A. Bays, PhD; G. Allen Finchum, PhD (emeritus); Hamed Gholizadeh, PhD; Hongbo Yu, PhD
Assistant Professors: Saber Brasher, PhD; Rory Hill, PhD; Tao Hu, PhD; G. Thomas LaVanchy, PhD; Yuting Zhou, PhD
Teaching Assistant Professor: Danielle Dempsey, PhD
Teaching Instructor: Donald Colley