Courses

An introduction to the materials and processes of the physical earth: rocks and minerals, earth structure and composition, plate tectonics, volcanology, seismology, crustal deformation, weathering and erosion, slope movement, sedimentation, wind and water processes, glaciation, and geologic time. Earth materials and processes are studied in the laboratory and in the field. This course is an environmental studies core requirement.

An introduction to human geography and the notion of globalization by exploring some of the major economic, political, social, cultural, environmental, and technological changes that have recently occurred at the global level and are shaping local places. The course is designed to provide students with better understanding of the variation, interaction, and interdependence of places, regions, people and their environments in a globalizing world; and to demonstrate how human geographers might consider and examine the concepts, forces, processes, issues, and ideas that are associated with global transformation.

Through an investigation of the fundamental concepts of earth systems science from a geographic perspective, students will develop confidence in using the scientific method. Emphasis in the course is placed on understanding the origins and development of Earth's surface features; the characteristics and circulations of Earth's atmosphere, including weather systems and global climates; and introducing the biophysical principles governing vegetation distribution patterns on Earth. Lab exercises will provide students hands-on opportunities to further develop their scientific literacy as it relates to earth systems science and beyond. This course is primarily intended for non-science majors.

An investigation of the scientific principles behind environmental issues and practical inquiry-based approaches to environment concerns in our local and global communities. The course integrates theoretical knowledge about the environment with real-life activities in a multitude of settings outside of the classroom to help students learn about complex interactions between human populations and their environments; and to inspire critical thinking about environmental challenges for today and future generations.

Principles of spatial and digital literacy applied to the geographic context of our contemporary world. In this course, students will discover the importance of place, spatial data collection, assessment of spatial patterns and principles of scale. Students will gain an understanding of the nature of geospatial data, and explore geospatial technologies such as GPS, mobile maps, satellite data and GIS. Students will discover digital cartography principles and spatial analysis techniques. Students will learn about applications of citizen science, digital humanitarianism and responding to humanitarian needs and crises through geospatial technologies.

This course explores urbanization processes in developing countries, particularly in urban settings across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. It provides a geographic perspective on the socio-economic, political, cultural, and environmental conditions under which cities of the Third World are rapidly growing and their relation to globalization issues. Case studies from selected areas examine such problems as unemployment, inadequate health services, housing shortages, and inadequate urban infrastructure.

An inventory of plant life across major habitats - particularly in the local area of British Columbia - this course provides insights into the ecology of these environments. Local field trips highlight natural habitats, agricultural and horticultural crops, and managed forests. Critical assessment of planetary stewardship forms a common theme.

An overview of the fundamental earth science processes responsible for the creation, transformation, and ongoing physical development of the Pacific Northwest. These processes are studied in the context of the building of the North American continent through tectonic forces and surface dynamics. Topics include: geologic time, tectonics, volcanology, seismology, stratigraphy, glaciation, erosion, paleontology, paleoclimatology, and environmental issues. Field trips and field studies are included.

This course describes and explores Canada's physical and human geography focusing on the regional distribution of natural features and resources, population and settlements, economic activities and development, and cultural change. It emphasizes the diversity and interrelationships between the physical and human landscapes which have evolved over time, creating the identifiable regions and subregions within the country.