The Department of Geography, Geomatics and Environment offers both BA and BSc programs in Geography, as well as a BSc program in Geographical Information Systems (GIS), and it is closely integrated with the spectrum of Environment programs. The general structure of the programs is the foundation course (1st year), the core stream courses (2nd year) and specializations in upper years. The programs, particularly in the first two years, integrate various elements of the human-social-cultural and the biogeophysical traditions with environmental perspectives and analytical methods. After the foundation course(s), students are required to take two courses from their selected core stream and two courses from the other three core streams before they can choose their specialization.
Students enrolled in major and specialist programs are required to complete a minimum number of field days over the course of their programs. Field days may be accumulated either through a field course and/or through courses with field day components as indicated in course descriptions.
The curriculum stresses the integrative nature of the discipline as well as the development of skills in geographical information analysis. We expect students to develop the high levels of geographical problem-solving skills required for some of the most dynamic areas of today's job market. Field studies complement lectures by providing material for workshops, developing skills in geographical information analysis, encouraging student involvement in basic enquiry, and building cooperation.
The Geography, Geomatics and Environment has close links with other disciplines and interdisciplinary programs. Students in other fields will find many courses within the department that complement their interests and expertise. From Literature to Geology, Chemistry to History, Fine Art to Economics, Geography offers new ways of combining and developing knowledge about the environment in which we all live.
The Geography BA program brings together many subjects of interest, ranging from community health issues, urban form and globalization to electoral politics, transportation and economic development. The program emphasizes the development of quantitative and qualitative analytical skills, including cartography, analysis of spatial data, social theory and archival work, which it supplements with field work and collaborative research opportunities. Through their training, geography BA students will become highly skilled and flexible problem solvers, preparing them for some of today's most dynamic areas of the job market.
