Undergraduate Course Descriptions

Geography (GEO)

GEO 1301 Introduction to Geography 3(3-0)

As a survey of the principals of human geography. The course initiates students to the basic skills required for analysis of spatial phenomena, including notions of scale and cartographic representation. Global systems and patterns are described. The principal characteristics of population distribution and the spatial organization of cultural traits are described. Spatial models and their relevance to the social sciences are discussed. The course involves in class and take-home exercises, as well as field trips.

This is a University Core Curriculum Course for the BAIS, BACS & BSHRD
This is an International Studies Major Core Course for the BAIS
This is an optional Minor Course in International Studies for the BAIS

GEO 3301 Economic Geography 3(3-0)

A study of the spatial organization of economic activity, the global distribution of production and exchange is analyzed with special regard given to the evolution of relations of interdependence through movement, cycles and networks. Major economic development models, including developmentalism, world-systems perspective, Marxist and liberal theories, are discussed. Students are required to conduct bibliographic research and to write a number of essays and papers.

This is an optional International Cooperation and Development Concentration Course for the BAIS

GEO 3302 Political Geography 3(3-0)

This is a study of the spatial deployment of power through the analysis of political entities, identities and interest at different scales. Emphasis is placed on the State, with definitions of national sovereignty, territory and borders. Domestic governance and civil administration are also discussed. International institutions and agencies will be analyzed in relation to contemporary economic activities, trade, resource management and environmental monitoring, and in relation to conflict and conflict resolution. Students are required to conduct bibliographic research and to write a number of essays and papers.

This is an optional Policical Science Concentration Course for the BAIS

GEO 4301 Environmental Management 3(3-0)
Pre-requisite: GEO 1301

The course analyses the major causes of environmental deterioration and strategies to repair and prevent damage to the environment. The impact of economic activities such as agriculture, fishing, forestry, exploitation of mineral and energy resources, manufacturing and transportation on the Earth's air, water, soils, flora and fauna is analyzed. The role and responsibility of major actors: governments and agencies of various levels, international organizations, NGO's, corporations, producers and consumers is discussed with regard to the concept and theory of sustainable development.

This is an optional International Cooperation and Development Concentration Course for the BAIS

GEO 4402 Geographic Information Systems 4(4-0)
Pre-requisites: GEO 1301 and SSC 2401 (or equivalent)

The course introduces Geographic Information Systems and associated techniques in digital image processing, and stresses fundamental logic and scope of problem solving using raster and vector systems. The course is designed for practitioners in development, planning, conservation and environmental management.

This is an optional International Cooperation and Development Concentration Course for the BAIS