²ÝÝ®ÎÛÊÓƵµ¼º½


Site Navigation

Geography GEOG

Instruction offered by members of the Department of Geography in the Faculty of Social Sciences.

Department Head - D. Draper

Geography courses are designated Area II or Area III.

All students interested in taking Geography courses, Geography Majors and Graduate Students, should read the pertinent Undergraduate and Graduate program sections of the Calendar.

Illustrative Undergraduate Course Groupings

This listing provides guidelines to assist students in their selection of related groups of geography courses, and is intended to be neither exhaustive nor exclusive.

Physical Geography: 211

• Climatology/Hydrology: 305, 403, 405, 415, 503, 515

• Geomorphology: 307, 409, 445, 511

• Soils Geography/Ecology: 313, 413, 417, 519

Human Geography: 213, 251, 253

• Cultural and Development: 361, 425, 463, 561

• Economic and Political: 341, 365, 565

• Urban: 351, 451, 551, 553, 565

Regional Geography: 205, 213

• Field Schools: 391, 392, 393, 394, 395, 590, 592

• Selected Areas: 371, 377, 381, 383, 397

Resource Geography: 321

• Conservation: 421, 521

• Recreation: 429, 529

Techniques and Methods, and Philosophy of Geography: 231

• Analytical Methods: 339, 391, 439, 539

• Geographic Information Systems: 357, 457, 537, 557

• Remote Sensing: 333, 433, 531

A more detailed statement of content for geography courses is available from the Department office.

Junior Courses

Geography 205 H(3-0)(Area III)

Gateway to Geography

An overview of human and physical environments, their inter-relationships and their relevance to environmental issues and world affairs. Major topics are drawn from current global issues where location matters. Specific examples are discussed in a global context and vary by session.

Note: Not open to students with credit in Geography 201, 203, 211, 251 or 253 (Urban Studies 253).

(Return to Top)

Geography 211 H(3-3)(Area III)

(formerly Geography 201)

The Physical Environment

Introduction to the physical elements of the environment such as weather, climate, hydrology, landforms, soils, vegetation, and the processes producing variations of these elements on the surface of the earth. The social implications of environmental change, disasters, and hazards are emphasized.

Prerequisites: Geography 205 or admission to the Major or Minor in Geography, Earth Science, Environmental Science, Latin American Studies, Transportation Studies, or Urban Studies or the Honours BA or BSc in Archaeology.

(Return to Top)

Geography 213 H(3-0)(Area II)

Geography of World Affairs

Focuses on the major culture regions of the world and also individual countries. Emphasis on the characteristics, distribution, inter-relationships and comparisons of the major culture and physical phenomena of these areas, i.e. population, political situation, economy, language, religion and environment. Some historical developments in each of the areas are presented for perspective, but the major emphasis is on the background for understanding contemporary world affairs.

(Return to Top)

Geography 231 H(3-3)(Area III)

Introduction to Geospatial Methods

An introduction to cartography, remote sensing, geographic information systems, and descriptive spatial statistics.

Prerequisites: Geography 205 or admission to the Major or Minor in Geography, Earth Science, Environmental Science, Latin American Studies, Transportation Studies or Urban Studies.

(Return to Top)

Geography 251 H(3-3)(Area II)

(formerly Geography 203)

The Human Environment

The study of people, their origins, culture, technology, economy and impact on the environment. The manner in which people attempt to impose order upon the surface of the earth. Concepts of relative location are introduced with particular regard to both the external orientation and the internal organization of urban areas.

Prerequisites: Geography 205 or admission to the Major or Minor in Geography, Earth Science, Environmental Science, Latin American Studies, Transportation Studies, Bachelor of Health Sciences, Urban Studies, or the Major in East Asia.

(Return to Top)

Geography 253 H(3-0)(Area II)

(Urban Studies 253)

Introduction to Cities

A broad introductory survey, from diverse perspectives, of the processes that shape cities and urban life.

(Return to Top)

Senior Courses

Geography 305 H(3-2) (Area III)

Weather and Climate

Physical principles of meteorology and climatology. Weather development in relation to different scales of atmospheric circulation. Elements of synoptic and dynamic climatology as determinants of characteristics and the distribution of climates. Laboratory work emphasizes North American examples.

Prerequisites: Geography 201 or 211.

(Return to Top)

Geography 307 H(3-2)(Area III)

Landform Processes and Morphology

A systematic study of the origin, nature and distribution of landforms. Laboratory work will include several field trips and geomorphic interpretation of maps and air photographs.

Prerequisites: One of Geography 201, 211, Geology 201, 203 or 209.

Note: Credit for both Geography 307 and Geology 373 will not be allowed.

(Return to Top)

Geography 313 H(3-2)(Area III)

Soils and Vegetation

Soil: physical, chemical and biological properties, and the environmental and spatial relationships of vegetation patterns.

Prerequisites: Geography 201 or 211.

(Return to Top)

Geography 321 H(3-0)(Area II)

Environmental Problems and Resource Management

Environmental and resource issues, with emphasis on topics such as sustainability, ethics; planning; policy and decision making; and management strategies. Case examples highlight issues in resource sectors such as freshwater, oceans, parks and wildlife, tourism and recreation, forests and energy.

Prerequisites: One of Geography 203, 251, 253, Urban Studies 201, 253.

(Return to Top)

Geography 333 H(3-3)(Area III)

Remote Sensing I

Basic instruction in the use and interpretation of remote sensing imagery. Identification, interpretation and mapping of both physical and cultural landscape features will be covered.

Prerequisites: Geography 231 or consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 339 H(3-2)(Area III)

Analytical Methods in Geography I

Introduction to qualitative and quantitative research methodology, sampling and survey design in geography. Covers the background analytical techniques for an understanding of geographic literature. Examples will involve the use of statistical computer packages.

Prerequisites: Geography 231 or consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 341 H(3-0)(Area II)

Introduction to Economic and Population Geography

Theories, concepts and techniques of economic and population geography with emphasis on policy issues relating to Canadian examples at the urban, regional, and national levels.

Prerequisites: One of Geography 203, 251, 253, Urban Studies 201, 253.

(Return to Top)

Geography 351 H(2-1T)(Area II)

Urban Social Geography

Concepts of urban geography with particular reference to intra-urban social issues.

Prerequisites: One of Geography 203, 251, 253, Urban Studies 201, 253.

(Return to Top)

Geography 357 H(3-3)(Area III)

(formerly Geography 447)

Geographic Information Systems I

The technical and theoretical foundations of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Explorations of data types and structures (raster, vector, object based), data input and manipulation, analytical basics, and visualization techniques will be carried out in lecture and laboratory. Case studies of GIS analysis form the basis of assignments.

Prerequisites: Geography 231 or both 333 and 339.

(Return to Top)

Geography 361 H(3-2)(Area II)

Imagining the World: An Introduction to Cultural Geography

An exploration of geography as a product and producer of social relationships and cultural meanings. How landscapes encode meanings and how places and spatial processes shape identities.

Prerequisites: One of Geography 203, 251, 253, Urban Studies 201 or 253.

(Return to Top)

Geography 365 H(3-0)(Area II)

Political Geography

Spatial study of political systems, structures and processes, and their relationship to geographic factors.

Prerequisites: One of Geography 203, 251, 253, Urban Studies 201, 253.

(Return to Top)

Geography 367 H(3-0)(Area II)

Population Problems

Spatial distribution of population, including density composition and characteristics; patterns of migration and settlement in selected areas.

Note: A previous course in geography is strongly recommended.

(Return to Top)

Geography 371 H(3-0)(Area II)

Introduction to Latin America

A survey of the physical, cultural and historical geography of Latin America.

Prerequisites: Any course in Geography or consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 377 H(3-0)(Area II)

Sub-Saharan Africa

Dimensions and underlying causes of issues facing African peoples: the colonial legacy, fragile environment, cultural and political diversity, population growth, resource development, urbanization, and economic challenges.

Prerequisites: Any course in Geography or consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 381 H(3-0)(Area II)

Canada

The regional geography of Canada. The physical framework of Canada and its significance in Canada's historical development. The concept of the geographic region, the patterns and characteristics of these regions, with selected detailed studies.

Prerequisites: Any course in Geography or consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 383 H(3-0)(Area II)

The United Kingdom

The interrelationships between the physical and human geographies of the United Kingdom.

Prerequisites: Any course in Geography or consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 391 H(80 hours)(Area III)

Geographic Field Studies

An introduction to field research techniques and topics in physical and human geography. Lectures and projects will provide an introduction to a range of geographic disciplines. Field exercises will normally be conducted away from Calgary for about ten days before Labour Day.

Prerequisites: One of Geography 201, 203, 211, 251, 253, Geology 201, 209 or consent of the Department.

Note: Enrollment in Geography 391 may be limited. Only declared Majors in Geography, Earth Science, Environmental Science, Transportation Scienceand Minors in Transportation Studies may be admitted prior to August 15. Applications from other students will be reviewed after August 14.

(Return to Top)

Geography 392 H(3-7)(Area III)

Overseas Field Studies in Physical and Environmental Geography - Part I

Field research and reconnaissance survey of techniques applied to regions outside North America. Group travel-study combined with formal instruction and seminars.

Prerequisites: Consent of the Department.

MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT

(Return to Top)

Geography 393 H(3-7)(Area III)

Overseas Field Studies in Physical and Environmental Geography - Part II

Field research and reconnaissance survey techniques applied to regions outside North America. Group travel-study combined with formal instruction and seminars.

Prerequisites: Geography 392.

MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT

(Return to Top)

Geography 394 H(3-7)(Area II)

Overseas Field Studies in Social and Economic Geography - Part I

Field research and reconnaissance survey techniques applied to regions outside North America. Group travel-study combined with formal instruction and seminars.

Prerequisites: Consent of the Department.

MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT

(Return to Top)

Geography 395 H(3-7)(Area II)

Overseas Field Studies in Social and Economic Geography - Part II

Field research and reconnaissance survey techniques applied to regions outside North America. Group travel-study combined with formal instruction and seminars.

Prerequisites: Geography 394.

MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT

(Return to Top)

Geography 397 H(3-0)(Area II)

Regional Geography of Selected World Areas

Selected regional geographies. A survey of the physical, cultural and historical geography of a world region.
397.01. The United States of America
397.02. Former Soviet Union
397.03. Australia, New Zealand, Oceania
397.04. Europe
397.05. The Arctic

Prerequisites: A previous course in geography is strongly recommended.

Note: Geography 397.01 is not open to students with credit in 379; 397.02 is not open to students with credit in 387; 397.03 is not open to students with credit in 389.

(Return to Top)

Geography 401 H(3-2) (Area III)

Transportation Geographic Information Systems

An exploration of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) from its theoretical basics through to advanced applied analysis, with emphasis on transportation systems. Topics include representing reality in a digital realm, data models, analytical approaches and linkages to traditional modelling. Applications include infrastructure development analysis, suitability analysis, least cost path analysis, location allocation modelling, routing and scheduling analysis.

Prerequisites: Geography 339 or Statistics 213, and Transportation Studies 303.

(Return to Top)

Geography 403 H(2-2)(Area III)

Physical Oceanography and Climatic Variability

Oceanic circulation and atmosphere-ocean interactions as controls of climate. Focus on the role the marine cryosphere in radiation and energy exchange at regional, hemispheric and global scales. Climatic variability in historic time and during the instrument period.

Prerequisites: Geography 305 or consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 405 H(3-2)(Area III)

Applied Climatology

Role played by weather and climate in determining environmental quality. Storms, floods, droughts and human adjustment to severe weather. Urban and rural climates, air pollution. Climate in agriculture and forestry. Implications of Canada's climate(s) for the nation's water resources, agriculture and forests.

Prerequisites: Geography 305 or consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 409 H(3-0)(Area III)

Permafrost

Development, characteristics and significance of permafrost, including the thermal and hydrological processes and resulting periglacial geomorphology and geotechnical implications.

Prerequisites: Geography 305 and 307.

(Return to Top)

Geography 413 H(3-2)(Area III)

(Archaeology 413)

Soil Characteristics and Formation

Characteristics of soils and the processes and factors of soil formation. Soil development related to geomorphic materials, geomorphic events, anthropogenic sources, and erosional and depositional landscapes.

Prerequisites: Geography 313 or consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 415 H(3-2)(Area III)

Hydrology

The physical basis of water utilization and management. Elements of the hydrologic cycle - precipitation, ground water and stream flow. Techniques for estimating water yield and renewal potential in drainage basins.

Prerequisites: Geography 305 or 307, and 339 (or a course in Statistics by consent of the Department).

(Return to Top)

Geography 417 H(3-3) (Area III)

Biogeography and Natural Ecosystems

Environmental and spatial relationships of plant communities. Interpretation of soil-plant inter-relationships applied to the classification and geographic distribution of natural ecosystems.

Prerequisites: Geography 313 or consent of the Department.

Note: Normally offered in even- dated years during the Spring or Summer Session.

(Return to Top)

Geography 421 H(3-0)(Area II)

Renewable Resources and Natural Environments

Geographical resources analysis and management approaches applied to resource sectors such as urban natural areas, wilderness parks and reserves, freshwater resources and fisheries.

Prerequisites: Geography 321 or consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 425 H(3-0)(Area II)

Critical Approaches to Development: Theory and Applications

A critical approach to meanings of economic and social development and the theories of development from a spatial perspective. Other areas of study include: population and health dynamics, gender and development, rural development, industrialization, formal and informal economies, foreign aid, trade and debt, community development. Case studies from Latin America, Asia and Africa.

Prerequisites: Geography 351 or 365.

(Return to Top)

Geography 429 H(3-0)(Area II)

Tourism, Recreation and Environmental Management

Dimensions of, approaches to, and issues in recreation and environmental management; planning for sustainable tourism; cultural and heritage tourism; adventure and eco-tourism; and other representative tourism and recreational activities and environments. Case studies emphasize assessment and monitoring, policy initiatives and decision-making, and other practical orientations.

Prerequisites: One of Geography 321, 327, or 329.

(Return to Top)

Geography 433 H(3-3)(Area III)

Remote Sensing II

Principles of earth resource analysis using digital images collected from instruments on airborne and spaceborne platforms. The full range of the electromagnetic spectrum currently used in remote sensing. Emphasis will be given to complementing conventional data and methods with automated techniques.

Prerequisites: Geography 333 and 339.

(Return to Top)

Geography 437 H(2-3) Area III)

Applied Mapping Techniques

Beginning to end map production including rapid and high precision surveying techniques, digital data compilation and manipulation and advanced map design and production in paper and digital formats. This is a project-oriented course with field surveying exercises early in the session and computer-based projects later in the session.

Prerequisites: Geography 231; plus either Geography 333 or 357 or consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 439 H(3-2)(Area III)

Analytical Methods in Geography II

Methods for the analysis of temporal, spatial and multivariate data sets. Emphasis is placed on data sets relating to geographic phenomena, resource utilization and environmental problems, with examples from the geographic literature. Examples will involve the use of computer packages.

Prerequisites: Geography 339 or consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 445 H(3-3) (Area III)

Glacial Geomorphic Systems

Evaluation of hypotheses and theories on the formation of glacial landforms and sediments. Glacial mechanics, erosion, deposition, and hydrology. Timing and dynamics of glaciation and deglaciation in Alberta.

Prerequisites: Geography 307 or consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 451 H(3-0)(Area II)

Urban Systems Development

A critical review of the principles of urban growth and development in the context of systems of cities. Topics include: single factor explanations, such as central place, long distance trade models, industrial and service growth; cumulative development models; society explanations.

Prerequisites: Geography 351 or consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 457 H(3-3)(Area III)

(formerly Geography 547)

Geographic Information Systems II

The role of Geographic Information Systems in environmental (physical-human interactions) research and management is explored both theoretically and practically. Topics will relate to major issues within the environmental/earth sciences field. Advanced analytical approaches will be critically examined within lecture and laboratories. A major GIS package will be used for laboratories and student projects.

Prerequisites: Geography 339 and one of 357 or 447 or consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 463 H(3-0)(Area II)

Cities, Poverty and Development

Analysis of the explosive growth and geographical character of Third World cities. Topics normally include: rural-urban migration, development theory and urbanization, housing, formal/informal labour market, service and food provision, social and political conflict. Case studies from Latin America, Asia and Africa.

Prerequisites: Geography 351 or 365 or consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 503 H(3-0)(Area III)

Climate Change

Overview of global climate dynamics and the interactions between ocean, atmosphere, biosphere, cryosphere, and biogeochemical cycles. Examination of climate change in Earth's past, present, and future, scrutinizing both natural and anthropogenic influences on the global climate system.

Prerequisites: Geography 305 or consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 511 H(3-3) (Area III)

Rivers

Research approaches and field techniques in studies of fluvial parameters, channel processes, morphology, sedimentology and deposition models, mapping of textural facies and depositional environments.

Prerequisites: One of the following: Geography 307, Geology 373, Geology 381, or consent of the Department.

Note: Offered in even-odd dated academic years.

(Return to Top)

Geography 515 H(3-2)(Area III)

Applied Hydrology

Dam and reservoir water management, irrigation forms, stream routing and flood control, municipal water supply, well development and water conservation. Canadian water resources are emphasized.

Prerequisites: Geography 415 or an equivalent course in Engineering by consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 519 H(3-2)(Area III)

Landscape Ecology

Concepts and methods for examining the spatial pattern of natural and managed landscapes and their effects on ecological processes. Applications in land management and biological conservation will also be considered.

Prerequisites: One of Geography 313 or Biology 313 and one of Geography 339 or Biology 315 or consent of the Department. At least one of the following is also strongly recommended: Geography 417, 421, 517, or Ecology 419, 439, 501.

(Return to Top)

Geography 521 H(2-2)(Area II)

Environmental Sustainability and Management: Issues and Applications

Advanced topics in environmental sustainability and management, and critical analysis of approaches to resolving sustainability issues in environmental management. Students are usually involved directly in a major case study/field research project.

Prerequisites: Geography 421 or 429.

Note: Offered in odd-even dated academic years.

MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT

(Return to Top)

Geography 523 H(3-0)(Area III)

(Anthropology 523) (Archaeology 523) (formerly Anthropology/Archaeology/Geography 609)

Human Ecological Systems

The development of human ecology, its current directions and application of analytical techniques as they apply to anthropology, archaeology and geography.

Prerequisites: Consent of the Department.

Note: Not open to students with credit in Geography 609, Anthropology 609, or Archaeology 609.

(Return to Top)

Geography 529 H(2-2)(Area II)

Research and Planning for Tourism and Recreation Resources

Research and techniques in analysis, planning and management of touristic and recreational resources. Usually involves a major case study field research project.

Prerequisites: One of Geography 321, 421 or 429 or consent of the Department.

Note: Offered in even-odd dated academic years.

(Return to Top)

Geography 531 H(2-3)(Area III)

Remote Sensing and Forest Ecology

Advanced digital image analysis used in forest ecological studies including mapping, monitoring and modelling. Includes field work and computer laboratories.

Prerequisites: Consent of the Department.

Note: Normally offered only in Summer Session.

(Return to Top)

Geography 533 H(2-3)(Area III)

Topics in Geospatial Analysis

Advanced topics of current interest in one or more of remote sensing, geographic information science and spatial statistics. Chosen topics vary by session and focus on integrating raster and vector systems.

Prerequisites: Any two of Geography 433, 439, 457, 547 and consent of the Department.

Note: Students should consult the Department before registering to learn what topics will be covered in a given year.

MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT

(Return to Top)

Geography 537 H(2-3)(Area III)

Geographic Information Systems in Forest Ecology

Techniques of forestry landscape analysis and modelling using multiple digital data types within a GIS framework; fundamental operations, issues and applications. Field and computer work.

Prerequisites: Consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 539 H(3-3)(Area III)

Geographic Data Integration and Visualization

Advanced topics in the communication, representation and display of digital geospatial data. Main themes include: cartography, spatial cognition, data mining and information visualization.

Prerequisites: Geography 339, and two of 433, 439, 457.

(Return to Top)

Geography 551 H(3-0)(Area II)

Advanced Urban Geography

Selected topics in the field, such as the processes of growth in urban systems or urban ecology.

Prerequisites: Geography 351 and 451 or consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 553 H(3-0)(Area II)

Globalization and the City

Introduction to the economic, political and cultural forces operating on a global scale that increasingly shape the growth and development of cities. Emphasis is placed on the dynamics of growth, competition, and polarization that structure urban hierarchies as well as cities' internal social and economic geographies.

Prerequisites: One of Anthropology 379, 387, Economics 361, Geography 351, Sociology 353, Urban Studies 201, 253 (or Geography 253) or consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 557 H(3-3)(Area III)

Advanced Geographic Information Systems: Urban

The role of GIS in the urban realm is explored both theoretically and practically. Topics will relate to urban management, design, planning, and research drawn from a broad spectrum of socio-economic issues facing urban areas. Advanced analytical approaches will be critically examined within lectures and laboratories. A widely used GIS package will be used for laboratories and student projects.

Prerequisites: Geography 231. Geography 351 and 357 or 457 are strongly recommended.

(Return to Top)

Geography 561 H(3-0)(Area II)

Critical Debates in Cultural Geography

In-depth discussion of key topical issues and points of debate in the field, including methodological issues, points of theoretical conflict among the subfields of Geography, moral or ethical issues in Geography.

Prerequisites: Geography 361.

Note: Offered in even-odd dated academic years.

(Return to Top)

Geography 565 H(3-0)(Area II)

Urban Political Geography

An examination of how urban spatial relations shape, and are shaped by, political institutions, organizations, and social movements.

Prerequisites: Geography 351 or 451.

(Return to Top)

Geography 590 F(3-7)(Area III)

Overseas Field Studies in Physical and Environmental Geography

Field research and reconnaissance survey techniques applied to regions outside North America. Individual and group travel-study combined with formal instruction and seminars.

Prerequisites: Consent of the Department.

MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT

(Return to Top)

Geography 592 F(3-7)(Area II)

Overseas Field Studies in Social and Economic Geography

Field research and data collection techniques applied to geographical phenomena in regions outside North America. Periods of individual and group travel-study are interspersed with formal instruction and seminars.

Prerequisites: Consent of the Department.

MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT

(Return to Top)

Geography 597 H(3-0)(Area II)

Selected Topics in Geography

Content will vary from year to year. Consult Department for details.

Prerequisites: Consent of the Department.

MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT

(Return to Top)

Geography 599 H(3-0)(Area III)

Selected Topics in Geography

Content will vary from year to year. Consult Department for details.

Prerequisites: Consent of the Department.

MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT

(Return to Top)

Graduate Courses

Geography 603 H(3-3)

(formerly Geography 699.33)

Remote Sensing: Basics and Beyond

Introduction to the theory and practice of remote sensing. Topics include physics of remote sensing, sensor systems, resolutions, geometric and radiometric correction, image analysis (enhancements, filtering, texture analysis, principal components, classification approaches and algorithms and accuracy). May include specific image acquisition systems and their methodological requirements. Emphasis is on fundamental concepts. Laboratory provides experience with fundamental image processing techniques.

Prerequisites: Consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 605 H(3-3)

(formerly Geography 699.39)

Statistical Analysis: Basics and Beyond

Introduction to applied statistics, particularly as they are used in geographical analysis. Topics include sampling design, summary statistics, probability theory, inferential statistics, and multivariate analysis. Laboratory exercises give students hands-on experience in computer-based statistical analysis.

Prerequisites: Consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 607 H(3-3)

(formerly Geography 699.47)

Geographic Information Systems: Basics and Beyond

Introduction to the world of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Includes: representing reality in the digital realm, georeferencing, data structures, software history and comparison, and the full spectrum of analytical approaches associated with advanced GIS software. A major part of the work will be hands on. Software is used as a vehicle for taking the theory and concepts into a working reality.

Prerequisites: Consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 619 H(3-2)

Spatial Ecology

Applies the principles of landscape ecology and conservation biology to the study of spatial effects on individual species and on the structure, dynamics, diversity and stability of multi-species communities. The use of GIS and remote sensing technologies is a central theme. Topics include habitat fragmentation, metapopulation analysis and viability, wildlife habitat modelling (static and dynamic), management of endangered species, and spatial decision support. Other aspects of this course include the importance and use of indicator, umbrella, keystone and flagship species in conservation.

Prerequisites: Consent of the Department.

Note: Not open to students with credit in Geography 695.11.

(Return to Top)

Geography 633 H(3-3)

Research and Applications in Remote Sensing

Review of basic and advanced principles of image analysis; advanced laboratory techniques. Integration of remote sensing with GIS; current research in remote sensing. Project organization; data sources for remote sensing.

Prerequisites: Consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 635 H(3-3)

(formerly Geography 699.35)

Active Microwave Remote Sensing

Theoretical and applied aspects of active microwave remote sensing for geophysical parameter estimation. Discussion of sensor configuration, dielectric mixture modelling, microwave-surface interactions, microwave scattering (surface and volume) modelling and polarimetry. Laboratory work includes field scatterometer use, computer modelling, and polarimetric analysis.

Prerequisites: Consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 637 H(3-3)

Visual Basic Programming in Geographic Information Systems

Introduction to computer programming for customizing and automating a GIS. Topics include object-oriented programming techniques, scripting, automation and customization using Visual Basic within a GIS.

Prerequisites: Consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 639 H(3-3)

Advanced Spatial Analysis and Modelling

History of spatial modelling in geography; comprehensive coverages of techniques, spatial analysis and spatial modelling as currently used within GIS and remote sensing.

Prerequisites: Consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 647 H(3-3)

Advanced Research and Applications in Geographic Information Systems

Focus on advanced GIS applications in core areas; methodological developments in GIS, and current research directions in GIS.

Prerequisites: Consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 649 H(3-3)

Enterprise GIS and Database Management Systems

Advanced topics in GIS and database systems, including integration of enterprise database systems with a GIS, data modelling, database management, distributed GIS via the world wide web, and web-based GIS.

Prerequisites: Geography 647 or consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 681 H(3-0)

Geographic Information Systems Project: Theoretical Issues

A critical and comprehensive review of information and literature on a GIS research topic This course provides the conceptual basis for Geography 683.

Prerequisites: Geography 633, 639 and 647; or consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 683 H(3-0)

Geographic Information Systems Project: Application

Implementation of a project on a GIS topic which will involve demonstrating mastery of GIS project design and the implementation and presentation of results commensurate with graduate level work. This topic will relate to material covered by the student in Geography 681.

Prerequisites: Geography 681 or consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 691 H(3-3)

Advanced Fluvial Geomorphology

Contemporary concepts and issues, research methodologies, experimental design, and applied aspects of fluvial geomorphology. A seminar-based course with field trip components.

Prerequisites: Geography 511 or consent of the Department.

(Return to Top)

Geography 695 H(3-0)

Seminar in Geographic Research Methods

Prerequisites: Consent of the Department.

MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT

(Return to Top)

Geography 697 H(3-0)

Seminar in the Philosophy and Nature of Human Geography

Prerequisites: Consent of the Department.

MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT

(Return to Top)

Geography 699 H(3-0)

Seminar in the Philosophy and Nature of Physical Geography

Prerequisites: Consent of the Department.

MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT

(Return to Top)

A list of specific subtitles for the 700-level courses listed below is available in the Department.

Geography 795 H(3-0)

Selected Topics in Geographic Research Methods

Prerequisites: Consent of the Department.

MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT

(Return to Top)

Geography 797 H(3-0)

Selected Topics in Human Geography

Prerequisites: Consent of the Department.

MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT

(Return to Top)

Geography 799 H(3-0)

Selected Topics in Physical Geography

Prerequisites: Consent of the Department.

MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT

(Return to Top)