Oct 03, 2024  
2021-2022 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2021-2022 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Geography Major, B.A.


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Geographers are among the government officials, community leaders, activists, researchers, and business people who use data-driven research to develop solutions to complex environmental, social, economic, and political problems. Geography is unique in bridging the social sciences and the natural sciences, and in providing geospatial analyses of environmental and socio-economic problems. The program provides a foundation for understanding problems and implementing equitable solutions to improve the quality of human-environment dynamics. Engagement in environmental, social justice and ethical issues is facilitated through applied research and learning in the Denver Metropolitan Area. The Geography curriculum combines fundamental courses in natural and social systems and geospatial science with specialized electives within four disciplinary sub-fields - Political Economy Approaches to Sustainability, Geographic Information Science, Physical Geography, and Planning. Students have flexibility in choosing courses and pursuing their areas of interest. The major prepares students for professional careers in both the private and public sectors as well as for graduate studies.

Recommended Prerequisite Courses


For students interested in upper division coursework or graduate study in Geographic Information Science or Physical Geography: At least one algebra course (MTH 1110 or higher) and one statistics course (MTH 1210 or higher) are recommended. Students are encouraged to meet with an advisor to discuss upper division course prerequisites, optional courses, minors, and electives which support their interests.

Required Courses


Students should select one course from each area listed below. These courses provide an introduction to the main sub-fields of Geography, and methods of geographic inquiry. Four courses are required. All courses must be passed with at least a “C-” to count towards the major.

Geography Electives


Students are required to select a minimum of 24 credits of elective courses in Geography (GEG) or Geographic Information Science (GIS) from any of the core geographical knowledge areas listed below. Students may take courses from multiple areas towards the major. At least 22 credits must be from upper division courses (3000- and 4000-level). All courses must be passed with at least a “C-” to count towards the major.

1. Political Economy Approaches to Sustainability


Courses integrate physical and social sciences with planning and spatial analysis as a foundation for understanding problems and implementing solutions to improve the quality of the built environment, economies, and policies to promote sustainability and social justice.

2. Geographic Information Science


Courses develop theoretical knowledge and technical training in Geographic Information Systems, remote sensing, cartography and database systems in order to define and solve problems in the management, conservation, and improvement of natural and human environments.

3. Physical Geography


Courses examine natural processes and phenomena at the Earth surface, and their connections with human activities.

4. Urban and Regional Processes and Planning


Courses provide students with the skills to address the social, economic, environmental, and spatial relationships that shape urban regions.

5. Independent Research and Individualized Experience


This core area allows students to pursue individual interests via directed study or internship experiences, and to explore additional coursework in Geography, as opportunities arise.

Senior Experience


All Geography majors are required to take the Geography capstone course, which culminates the degree by providing an opportunity for hands-on geographic inquiry. This course must be passed with at least a “C-” to count towards the major.

Summary of Geography Major Requirements


Required Courses 13 credits
Geography Electives 24 credits
Senior Experience Course 3 credits
   
Total for Geography Major 40 credits

 

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