Geography Course Offerings

Please see the section on “Course Description Symbols and Terms” in The University Catalog for an explanation of course description terminology and symbols, the course numbering system, and course credit units. All courses are lecture and discussion and employ letter grading unless otherwise stated. Some prerequisites may be waived with faculty permission. Many syllabi are available on the Chico Web.

GEOG 001

Physical Geography    3.0 Fa/Spr

A systematic survey of the physical Earth and the natural processes that influence humankind. The course provides an introduction to the use of maps and other tools employed in the analysis of patterns of weather, climate, soils, vegetation, and animals. CAN GEOG 2.

GEOG 002

Human Geography    3.0 Fa/Spr

Survey of human populations and activities, with an emphasis upon how social, economic, political, and religious institutions influence interrelationships with the physical environment. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved Non-Western Course. CAN GEOG 4.

GEOG 005

California Cultural Landscapes    3.0 Fa/Spr

Broad overview of spatial and temporal changes in the California landscape resulting from the interaction of various cultural groups with their environment. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved Ethnic Course.

GEOG 006

The American West    3.0 Fa/Spr

The historical cultural geography of the American West, emphasizing how various cultural groups have each made a unique imprint on the western landscape. This is an approved General Education course.

GEOG 098

Special Topics in Geography    1.0-3.0 Fa/Spr

This course is for special topics offered as 098A-C for 1.0 to 3.0 units respectively. Typically the topic is offered on a one-time-only basis and may vary from term to term and be different for different sections. See The Class Schedule for the specific topic being offered.

GEOG 101

Global Economic Geography    3.0 Fa/Spr

A systematic survey of human economic activities. Analysis of resource exploitation and use, including agriculture, extractive activities, industry, commerce, and service functions. Recommended for business and liberal arts majors. This is an approved Non-Western Course.

GEOG 103

Geography and World Affairs    3.0 Fa/Spr

Geography in the news. Analysis of current world conflicts and problem areas, with an emphasis upon examination of social, economic, political, and environmental realities. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved Non-Western Course.

GEOG 104

Environmental Issues    3.0 Fa/Spr

Geographic analysis of humanity’s interaction with the environment. Examines natural and human systems, resources, population, energy, and pollution. Develops an appreciation of the beauty, balance, and complexity of natural systems and human success in attaining harmony with them. Enhances awareness and perception of each individual’s role in and with the environment. This is an approved General Education course.

GEOG 106

Geographies of Disaster    3.0 Fa/Spr

This course provides a broad global overview of disasters resulting from natural or technological hazards. Disasters contrive to maim and kill, and property losses due to disaster have continued to increase. This course emphasizes the spatial and temporal distribution of hazards, the human impact of disaster, roles played by technology and society in creating or worsening risky situations, and policy options for disaster preparation and loss reduction. This is an approved General Education course.

GEOG 108

Map and Air Photo Interpretation    3.0 Fa/Spr

Methods and techniques of aerial photo and map interpretation, stressing applications to environmental study and land use surveys. This is a basic tools course for students majoring in geography, the natural and earth sciences, and in such applied fields as planning and recreation. 2.0 hours discussion, 2.0 hours activity.

GEOG 109

Geographical Research and Writing    3.0 Fa/Spr

Examination and evaluation of library research materials pertinent to geography. Practice in analysis and writing of geographical reports. Successful completion required for all geography majors before enrolling in WP course to meet writing requirement.

GEOG 110

Computer Applications    3.0 Fa/Spr

Prerequisites: CSCI 010 or SOSC 010 is recommended.

Introduction to computers as a tool of geographic analysis. Discussion of mainframe and personal computer hardware and software. Assigned projects on CYBER and PC systems. 6.0 hours activity. Special fee required; see The Class Schedule.

GEOG 113

Introductory Cartography    3.0 Fall

Prerequisites: Network literacy via CSCI 010, SOSC 010, or GEOG 110.

Introduction to the compilation, design, and production of thematic maps. Emphasis is on maps as communication devices. 2.0 hours discussion, 2.0 hours activity. Special fee required; see The Class Schedule.

GEOG 115

Spatial Analysis    3.0 Fall

Prerequisites: GEOG 110 or MATH 005 or equivalent.

This course entails application of statistical methods to geographic problems. Sudents will conduct quantitative analysis of spatial data. Formerly GEOG 215.

GEOG 116H

Crossing Boundaries:    3.0 Spring
Gender and Modernization

Prerequisites: Junior status at the end of semester in which course is taken and current enrollment in the Honors Program.

An overview of contemporary human geography and some aspects of women’s studies, emphasizing the importance of space, movement, place, environment, and family. Primary texts such as novels, memoirs, and films will be used to explore the perspectives of a variety of culture groups. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved Ethnic Course.

This course is the same as MCGS 116H which may be substituted.

GEOG 119

Introduction to    3.0 Fa/Spr
Geographical Information Systems

Prerequisites: GEOG 110 or equivalent.

This course provides an introduction to topics in Geographic Information Systems (GIS). The course will combine a conceptual discussion of topics with practical exercises using microcomputer software. Both the theory and practice of GIS analysis will be presented.

GEOG 120

Community and Rural Planning    3.0 Fall

Study of the theory and practice of planning. Analysis of planning processes, elements of the comprehensive plan, zoning, environmental impact of development, regional policies, and growth. Includes investigation of a practical planning problem. Formerly GEOG 220.

GEOG 135

Geography and Tourism    3.0 Fall

Study of spatial and locational aspects of tourism, including environmental factors influencing tourism’s location and character.

GEOG 139

American Cultural Landscapes    3.0 Spring

Analysis of the special character of North American landscapes. Examination of the historical evolution of contemporary landscapes through maps, reading, literature, field observations, and class discussion. Emphasis on comparison of regional patterns and the shaping of American landscapes by cultural and economic factors.

GEOG 151

California    3.0 Inquire

The Golden State — land of contrast! A regional survey with emphasis upon the Earth and its human use.

GEOG 152

The United States    3.0 Fall

A regional study of our nation in terms of the physical earth and its human use. The course includes emphasis on issues and problems related to resources, environmental concerns, and settlement patterns. Cultural and regional differences in human-environmental relationships are compared and contrasted. This is an approved General Education course.

GEOG 153

Canada: Land and People    3.0 Inquire

The Canadian people and their cultural and physical landscapes are studied in terms of perceptions, processes, patterns, and relationships.

This course is the same as CAST 153 which may be substituted.

GEOG 154A

Land and People of Mexico    3.0 Fall

An interdisciplinary approach to the study of social institutions and culture in terms of family, neighborhood, community, region, and nation, with specific emphasis on Mexico. This course is designed to be a component of the Upper-Division Theme on Mexico and Central America. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved Non-Western Course.

This course is the same as LAST 102 which may be substituted.

GEOG 154B

Land and People of    3.0 Inquire
Central America and the Caribbean

Study of the physical environment, human settlement, development, and modern problems of the nations of Central America and the Caribbean. This course is designed to be a component of the Upper-Division Theme on Mexico and Central America. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved Non-Western Course.

This course is the same as LAST 122 which may be substituted.

GEOG 155

South America    3.0 Inquire

A survey of the physical and cultural environments of South America. Emphasis will be given to the interrelationships between the people and the land, the cultural similarities and differences of Spanish and Portuguese South America, and the resulting contemporary environment.

GEOG 160

Europe    3.0 Inquire

An analysis of an old but changing habitat that has been the focal point of much human achievement and strife. A nation-by-nation review of the homeland for half a billion people.

GEOG 165

Former Soviet Union    3.0 Spring

A regional study of the world’s largest group of nations. This course considers environment, settlement, contemporary aspects, problems, and potentials.

GEOG 170

Pacific Rim Regions    3.0 Fall

A survey of the physical, cultural, political, population, and resource patterns, and relationships in the economic and social evolution of the regions. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units.

GEOG 178

Australia and the South Pacific    3.0 Spring

Modern Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific Islands, including Tahiti, Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, and New Guinea. Cultural and physical environments are analyzed and compared in terms of perceptions, processes, landscape patterns, and problems.

GEOG 189

Geography Internship    1.0-3.0 Fa/Spr

This internship is offered as 189A-C for 1.0 to 3.0 units respectively. Students must register directly with a supervising faculty member. The internship provides service learning experience as a volunteer or supervisor in a campus or community environmental organization or agency. Each unit of credit requires a minimum of three hours of activity in the assigned role. 2.0 hours activity. Credit/no credit grading only.

This course is the same as SOSC 189 which may be substituted.

GEOG 198

Special Topics in Geography    1.0-3.0 Fa/Spr

This course is for special topics offered as 198A-C for 1.0 to 3.0 units respectively. Typically the topic is offered on a one-time-only basis and may vary from term to term and be different for different sections. See The Class Schedule for the specific topic being offered.

GEOG 198H

Special Topics-Honors    3.0 Inquire

Prerequisites: Junior standing and current enrollment in the Honors Program.

In a format designed for students in the Honors Program, this course will present selected topics not covered in the regular curriculum. Topics will vary from one semester to another. See The Class Schedule for the specific topic being offered.

GEOG 199

Special Problems    1.0-3.0 Fa/Spr

This course is an independent study of special problems and is offered as 199A-C for 1.0 to 3.0 units respectively. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. Credit/no credit grading only.

GEOG 201

Geomorphology    3.0 Fall

Prerequisites: GEOG 001 or GEOS 002 or equivalent.

Systematic analysis of the origin and development of landforms. Emphasis is on the study of geomorphic processes using maps, air photos, and field data. 2.0 hours discussion, 2.0 hours activity. Special fee required; see The Class Schedule.

GEOG 203

Climatology    3.0 Spring

Prerequisites: GEOG 001 or GEOS 020 or equivalent.

Systematic analysis of the processes and controls of the earth’s climatic systems. Use of climatic classification systems; examination of climatic regions, microclimatology, and climatic applications.

GEOG 204

Biogeography    3.0 Fall

Prerequisites: GEOG 001 or introductory biology course or equivalent.

Systematic analysis of the major distributions of plants and animals and the processes which have influenced these patterns. Use of maps and aerial photos to interpret distributions, historical changes, and relationships of plants and animals to human societies.

GEOG 205

Nature and Society    3.0 Spring

Prerequisites: GEOG 001 and GEOG 002 or equivalents.

An analysis of the complex interactions between humans and plants and animals. Includes the use of maps and other graphic material as well as reading, lecture, and discussion. Emphasis on how human activities affect the distribution and abundance of various plant and animal species, and on the importance of plants and animals to human societies both in past and present times.

GEOG 213

Advanced Cartography    3.0 Spring

Prerequisites: GEOG 108, GEOG 113.

Cartographic data entry, manipulation, and analysis in a computer mapping environment. Emphasis is on geographic information processing. 2.0 hours discussion, 2.0 hours activity. Special fee required; see The Class Schedule.

GEOG 214

Aerial Photo Interpretation    3.0 Spring

Prerequisites: GEOG 108 or equivalent.

Application of basic skills of aerial photographic interpretation to land use and environmental studies, geology, hydrology, range management, and urban studies. 2.0 hours discussion, 2.0 hours activity. Special fee required; see The Class Schedule.

GEOG 216

Locational Analysis    3.0 Inquire

Prerequisites: Concurrent enrollment in or prior completion of GEOG 115 or equivalent.

Examination of retail, service, and industrial location decision processes. Use of geographic information systems, quantitative methods, and field techniques to analyze and optimize business locations.

GEOG 217

Field Techniques    3.0 Spring

Prerequisites: Faculty permission.

Analysis of various field techniques and tools employed by geographers, and supervised application of field techniques in geography. Written and oral presentation of Field Survey. 6.0 hours activity. Special fee required; see The Class Schedule.

GEOG 218

Remote Sensing    3.0 Spring

Prerequisites: GEOG 108 and GEOG 115 or equivalents.

An introduction to the theory, techniques, data acquisition, processing, and presentation of imagery acquired through non-photographic and satellite means or remote sensing. The emphasis is on the application of the imagery to evaluate land cover and land use in the concept of human-Earth relationships. 6.0 hours activity.

GEOG 219

Advanced Geographic    3.0 Spring
Information Systems (GIS)

Prerequisites: GEOG 115, GEOG 119.

This course examines technical issues and emerging developments in Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Topics include design considerations, data structures, algorithms, and problems. Both raster and vector GIS systems will be examined. Demonstration projects will require both cartographic and tabular output.

GEOG 223

Planning Methods    3.0 Spring

Prerequisites: GEOG 115, GEOG 120.

Identification and analysis of the vocational skills necessary for students of planning and regional development, with emphasis on the preparation of general plans and special plan elements. 6.0 hours activity.

GEOG 224

Planning Studio    3.0 Spring

Prerequisites: GEOG 109 for majors; GEOG 223 or equivalent.

Application of planning theory and skills to a variety of actual planning studies in the field. Special fee required; see The Class Schedule.

GEOG 225

Community and Regional Development    3.0 Fall

Examination of economic, social, demographic, and political bases for regional growth, development, and planning. Case studies of local and international regional development plans.

GEOG 226

Water Resource Development    3.0 Fall

Prerequisites: GEOG 104 or equivalent.

Analysis of local, regional, national, and international water resource projects, distributions, and characteristics. Special fee required; see The Class Schedule.

GEOG 227

Environmental Impact Analysis    3.0 Fa/Spr

Prerequisites: GEOG 120 or equivalent.

Study of the legal antecedents to California environmental impact legislation; analysis of environmental review procedures, environmental research, preparation and evaluation of EIRs, and conditional negative declarations.

GEOG 228

Site Planning    3.0 Spring

Prerequisites: GEOG 108; GEOG 120; or equivalent.

Relationship of physical, biotic, cultural, and aesthetic factors to land planning. Techniques of solving site problems dealing with topography, grading, slope stability, seismicity, hydrology, vegetation, wildlife, soils, micro-climate energy use, view-shed, and functional design. Land development projects are analyzed, and plans for new development projects are prepared. Special fee required; see The Class Schedule.

GEOG 230

Geodemography    3.0 Spring

Prerequisites: Faculty permission.

Geographic foundations of political developments and events, with emphasis on the geographical dimensions of demographic processes and how they underlie political changes.

GEOG 235

Historical Geography of North America    3.0 Fall

Prerequisites: Faculty permission.

A regional and topical description of North America at selected time periods, including cultural groups, land tenure systems, settlement patterns, agriculture, exploration and mapping, resource use, urbanization, population and migrations, and present-day results.

This course is the same as AMST 235 which may be substituted.

GEOG 236

Transportation Planning    3.0 Spring

Prerequisites: GEOG 101; GEOG 120; or faculty permission.

An analysis of the function and distribution of the various modes of transportation and their role in urban and regional development. Techniques of planning transportation systems based on land use.

GEOG 250A

Field Studies    1.0 Inquire

Prerequisites: Faculty permission.

On-site survey of the physical and cultural geography of selected California sites, or other areas and topics. GEOG 250B or GEOG 250C may be substituted. Credit/no credit grading only. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. Special fee required; see The Class Schedule.

GEOG 250B

Field Studies    2.0 Inquire

Prerequisites: faculty permission.

On-site survey of the physical and cultural geography of selected California sites, or other areas and topics. 6.0 hours laboratory. Credit/no credit grading only. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. Special fee required; see The Class Schedule.

GEOG 250C

Field Studies    3.0 Inquire

Prerequisites: faculty permission.

On-site survey of the physical and cultural geography of selected California sites, or other areas and topics. Credit/no credit grading only. Special fee required; see The Class Schedule.

GEOG 260

Natural Hazards    3.0 Spring

Prerequisites: GEOG 001 or equivalent.

Identification, study, and understanding of the major natural hazard systems affecting human land use, settlement, and effective natural resource management.

GEOG 289

Internship    1.0-3.0 Fa/Spr

This course is an internship offered as 289A-C for 1.0 to 3.0 units respectively. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. Supervised work experience in applied geography or planning in public or quasi-public agencies.

GEOG 290

Proseminar in Geography    3.0 Fa/Spr

Prerequisites: ENGL 001 (or its equivalent) with a grade of C- or higher; senior standing; and GEOG 109.

Proseminar on selected topics in geography. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. This is a writing proficiency, WP, course; a grade of C- or better certifies writing proficiency for majors.

GEOG 298

Special Topics in Geography    1.0-3.0 Fa/Spr

Prerequisites: Completion of 6 units of geography.

This course is for special topics offered as 298A-C for 1.0 to 3.0 units respectively. Typically the topic is offered on a one-time-only basis and may vary from term to term and be different for different sections. See The Class Schedule for the specific topic being offered.

GEOG 299H

Honors Research in Geography    3.0 Fa/Spr

Prerequisites: faculty permission.

An intensive 3-unit course in geographical research. See department office for details. Open only to students with at least a 3.0 GPA in the major. The course consists of a research project done under the supervision of a faculty member, a formal written paper, and a public presentation.

GEOG 300

Advances in Geography and Planning    3.0 Fall

Prerequisites: Faculty permission.

A critical survey of contemporary directions and research in the major themes of geography and planning.

GEOG 301

Research Models in Geography and Planning    3.0 Spring

Prerequisites: GEOG 300.

A critical survey of contemporary methodologies available for research in geography and planning.

GEOG 302

Seminar in Physical Geography    3.0 Inquire

Prerequisites: Faculty permission.

An examination of current research in climatology, geomorphology, biogeography, or other selected topic in physical geography. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units.

GEOG 303

Seminar in Human Geography    3.0 Inquire

Prerequisites: Faculty permission.

An examination of current research in a selected human geography topic, including cultural, economic, urban, political, social, or behavioral geography. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units.

GEOG 305

Seminar in Applied Geography    3.0 Inquire

Prerequisites: Faculty permission.

An examination of current developments in a selected topic of applied geographical of planning techniques. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units.

GEOG 306

Seminar in Special Topics    3.0 Inquire

Prerequisites: Faculty permission.

An investigation and analysis of a special topic in areal studies or geographic education. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units.

GEOG 307

Environmental Planning    3.0 Spring

Prerequisites: BIOL 134, GEOG 227, and faculty permission.

Survey of environmental planning processes using concepts and principles of conservation ecology. Coverage includes legal mandates, administrative procedures, implementation techniques, and monitoring outcomes. Emphasis is on case studies and hands-on experience.

GEOG 308

Environmental Project Management    3.0 Inquire

Prerequisites: GEOG 227 and faculty permission.

This course provides students with direct experience in managing an environmental planning project. Under the supervision of a faculty member, students gain valuable problem solving skills by coordinating the many stages of an ongoing environmental project, from planning through implementation to assessment and evaluation.

GEOG 389

Internship    1.0-3.0 Fa/Spr

Prerequisites: Graduate Coordinator permission.

This course is an internship offered as 389A-C for 1.0 to 3.0 units respectively. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. Supervised work experience. Credit/no credit grading only.

GEOG 398

Independent Study    1.0-3.0 Fa/Spr

Prerequisites: Graduate Coordinator permission.

This course is a graduate level independent study offered as 398A-C for 1.0 to 3.0 units respectively. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. Credit/no credit grading only.

GEOG 399

Master’s Study    1.0-6.0 Fa/Spr

Prerequisites: Graduate Coordinator permission and candidacy status.

This course is a master’s study offered as either a Master’s Thesis for 1.0 to 6.0 units or as a Master’s Project for 1.0 to 6.0 units. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units.